Course Enrolment & Curriculum
Exploring Our Specialized Math Curriculum in Ontario
August 19, 2024
Education is the key to shaping a bright future, and every child deserves a learning environment where they feel seen, valued, and supported. At Roots to Routes Academy in Ontario, Canada, we understand the unique challenges Black students often face in traditional schools. Our academy, created by Black educators for Black students, provides a safe space where students can grow academically, celebrate their identities, and achieve success without conforming to norms that don’t reflect their experiences.
As an academy, our curriculum goes beyond just teaching subjects like math, science, or history—it’s about helping students discover who they are, where they come from, and how they can make a positive impact on the world.
Background and Need for Roots to Routes Academy
In many traditional schools, Black students might feel overlooked or misunderstood. The curriculum often lacks representation of their culture, history, and contributions, which can make learning less engaging and more challenging. Roots to Routes Academy was established to change that. We created a learning environment that celebrates Black culture and provides an education that reflects the rich history and achievements of Black people.
Our academy is more than just a school; it’s a community where students feel like they belong. We aim to create a place where Black students can thrive, knowing that their culture is celebrated, and their voices are heard. Education at Roots to Routes Academy is designed to empower students to be proud of who they are.
Curriculum Overview
- Culturally Responsive Education
- Personalized Learning
- Bilingual Instruction
- Real-World Connections
At Roots to Routes Academy, our curriculum is thoughtfully crafted to align with the Ontario Ministry of Education standards to meet the academic needs of our students, while also reflecting their cultural heritage and experiences as they study towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma. Here’s what makes our program stand out:
- Culturally Responsive Education: Our lessons are infused with stories, histories, and contributions of Black people from around the world. Whether it’s learning about Black scientists in STEM or exploring African history, our students see themselves in what they study.
- Personalized Learning: Each student is unique, and so is our teaching approach. We use personalized learning strategies to cater to each student’s strengths and interests, ensuring they stay engaged and excited about learning.
- Bilingual Instruction: Recognizing the diverse needs of our students, we offer bilingual instruction in both English and French. This means that subjects like Math are taught in the language that best suits each student, whether they’re more comfortable in French or English.
- Real-World Connections: We don’t just teach concepts—we show students how they apply in real life. For example, in our Grade 10 math course, students explore how geometry and algebra relate to real-world problems, using examples that connect to their lives and communities.
Math Curriculum: A Closer Look
At Roots to Routes Academy, we offer a robust and culturally responsive Math curriculum that caters to the academic needs of our students while also respecting their cultural identities. Our Math courses are designed to provide a strong foundation in mathematical concepts, preparing students for advanced studies and real-world applications. Here’s a closer look at what each grade level offers:
Grade 9 Math (MTH1W)
The Grade 9 Math course is an introduction to the fundamentals of mathematics that students will build upon in later years. It covers a range of topics, including:
- Algebra: Students are introduced to the concept of variables and constants, and how they interact in equations and inequalities.
- Geometry: This section introduces students to the properties of shapes and space. They study different types of angles, triangles, and polygons, and learn how to calculate areas and perimeters.
- Data Management: Students are introduced to the basics of statistics, including how to collect, organize, and interpret data. They learn about mean, median, mode, and range, and how to represent data using charts and graphs.
This course is designed to be both engaging and accessible, with a focus on real-world applications that relate to students’ lives. For example, they might explore how algebra can be used to solve problems related to budgeting or how geometry is used in architecture. What makes our approach unique is the integration of culturally relevant examples and problem-solving scenarios that resonate with our students’ experiences.
Grade 10 Math (MPM2D)
The Grade 10 Math curriculum builds on the concepts introduced in Grade 9 and introduces more complex mathematical ideas. Key areas of focus include:
- Quadratic Relations: Students learn how to graph quadratic equations, solve quadratic inequalities, and understand the significance of the vertex and axis of symmetry in a parabola.
- Analytic Geometry: This section explores the relationships between lines and curves on a graph. Students learn to solve problems involving the intersection of two lines, calculate the distance between points, and use slopes to understand the properties of lines.
- Trigonometry: Building on their earlier work with geometry, students explore the trigonometric ratios—sine, cosine, and tangent—and apply them to solve problems involving right and acute triangles. They also learn how to use the Pythagorean theorem and trigonometric identities to solve more complex problems.
The Grade 10 course emphasizes problem-solving and the application of math to everyday situations. For instance, students might explore how trigonometry is used in fields like engineering and physics or how quadratic functions can model real-world phenomena such as projectile motion.
Grade 11 Math (MCR3U)
The Grade 11 Math curriculum is designed to deepen students’ understanding of mathematical concepts and prepare them for higher-level studies. This course focuses on functions and their applications:
- Functions: Students explore different types of functions, including linear, quadratic, trigonometric, and exponential functions. They learn how to represent these functions algebraically, graphically, and numerically, and how to apply them to solve complex problems.
- Trigonometric Functions: Expanding on their knowledge from Grade 10, students explore trigonometric functions in greater detail. They learn about the unit circle, radians, and how to graph trigonometric functions. This knowledge is essential for understanding periodic phenomena, such as sound waves or seasonal patterns.
- Exponential and Logarithmic Functions: This section introduces students to the concept of exponential growth and decay, and how these functions are used in real-world contexts, such as population growth and radioactive decay. Students also learn about logarithms and their properties, which are essential for solving exponential equations.
- Inverse Functions: Students learn how to determine the inverse of a function and explore how inverse functions are used in real-world applications, such as encryption and decryption processes in computer science.
This course is particularly focused on helping students make connections between different areas of mathematics and understanding how these concepts apply in various fields. For example, students might explore how exponential functions are used in finance to calculate interest or how trigonometric functions model the oscillations of a pendulum.
French Teaching Program and Bilingual Math Instruction
At Roots to Routes Academy, we recognize the importance of language in education. For many of our students, French is a first or second language. To ensure that every student can access education in the language they’re most comfortable with, we offer a robust French teaching program.
French Teaching Program
Our French program isn’t just about language classes; it’s integrated into our entire curriculum. Students can choose to learn various subjects, including Math, in French. This bilingual approach helps students not only become proficient in French but also prepares them for opportunities in bilingual environments in the future.
Bilingual Math Instruction
Math is a subject that is often challenging for students, so we make it as accessible as possible by offering instruction in both English and French. Depending on the student’s needs, they can choose to learn Math in their preferred language. This flexibility ensures that language isn’t a barrier to understanding complex concepts and helps students feel more confident in their abilities.
Benefits of the Curriculum
Our curriculum is designed to help students succeed academically while also nurturing their personal growth. Here’s how:
- Educational Growth: Our students excel in subjects like Math because our lessons are engaging, relevant, and accessible in both English and French. By connecting what they learn to their own lives and offering instruction in their preferred language, students find it easier to grasp complex concepts.
- Cultural Identity and Empowerment: We celebrate Black culture in our classrooms, helping students develop a strong sense of identity. This empowers them to be confident and proud of their heritage, which is crucial for their overall development.
- Success Without Conformity: At Roots to Routes Academy, students don’t have to conform to traditional norms that don’t reflect their experiences. Instead, they learn to succeed on their own terms, using their unique perspectives to solve problems and create new opportunities.
Supportive Environment
Roots to Routes Academy is more than just a place to learn—it’s a community. We work hard to create a supportive and inclusive environment where every student feels safe and respected.
Safe Space
Our school is a place where students can be themselves without fear of discrimination or bias. We believe that every child has the right to learn in an environment that is free from prejudice and full of support.
Community and Mentorship
We build strong relationships between students and educators, creating a sense of community. Our teachers act as mentors, guiding students through their academic journey and helping them navigate any challenges they might face.
Success Stories and Testimonials
Our biggest achievements and successes as an academy are from the success stories of our students and even their parents. Here are a few stories that showcase the impact of our curriculum:
Students Achievements
One of our students who came to us struggling with Math had this to say:
“Hi, Ms. Reynolds, I just want to thank you so much for how much you've helped me with math this semester. I feel very confident with math now, and I appreciate how much effort you put into making me understand math.”
Another student who wasn’t so confident in her French had this testimonial to share:
“Bonjour, how have you been? I checked my email and I won the $5000 tuition to Universite Sainte Anne! I couldn't believe it, I was in shock. Thank you so much for your help, and again you helped me improve my French so much, and I am so grateful. I hope you are one of my teachers next year, and I hope you feel better.”
Through personalized learning and supportive teaching, these students not only improved their grades but also developed a love for these subjects, and that is one of our goals here at Roots To Routes Academy.
Parental Feedback
Many parents have noticed positive changes in their children since enrolling at Roots to Routes Academy. A parent had this to say:
“My son has never been more excited about school, He feels proud of who he is and knows that his future is bright.”
Our joy comes from seeing parents like this, who are happy with the progress their children have made. We know that when parents are happy, it means that their children are happy too.
Future Outlook and Expansion Plans
As we look to the future, Roots to Routes Academy is excited to expand our reach. We plan to introduce new programs/courses and possibly open additional campuses, so more students can benefit from our unique approach to education. Our vision is to continue making a positive impact on the educational landscape for Black students in Ontario and beyond.
Conclusion
At Roots to Routes Academy, we are committed to providing a learning experience that is as unique as each of our students. Our curriculum is designed not just to teach, but to empower, celebrate, and uplift. If you’re looking for a school where your child will be seen, heard, and valued, we invite you to join our community. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of a school that truly understands and supports your child’s journey to success.
Education at Roots to Routes Academy isn’t just about what you learn—it’s about who you become.
