Instructional Methodology
Structured Literacy
Our educators follow the science of reading and teach students with proven methods. Structured literacy is recommended by the International Dyslexia Association (IDA). It is essential for dyslexic students and beneficial to all students. Learn about Structured Literacy HERE
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For our students who need reading intervention, we offer 1:1 reading instruction with teachers and tutors certified in Orton-Gillingham (OG).
Multisensory Math
Multisensory math is ideal for students with dyscalculia, dyslexia, poor working memory, and/or deficits in executive function such as ADHD. Math is taught using evidence based, hands on concepts that are aligned with state standards.
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During our math block, students practice their skills with multiple modalities. For new concepts, students learn from small group instruction at their accelerated level with Dimensions by Singapore Math. Our students get daily repetition with Rocket Math to learn math facts. To help solidify concepts, students rotate through a fun gamified computer-based program called Dreambox. Further multisensory and independent level work is provided with Math-U-See.
Science & Social Studies
Science and Social Studies are taught both as independent and interdisciplinary topics. STEAM, which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics is incorporated. Project-Based Learning (PBL)allows students to develop critical thinking skills while tackling a real scenario or problem. Group work helps students communicate goals, expectations, and values.
Executive Function
Our students with ADHD or Executive Dysfunction Disorder need patience, a framework of support, and a thorough understanding of how their learning is impacted. Our educators teach and support Executive Function skills in every activity and lesson.
Some of these skills include attention, flexible thinking (cognitive flexibility), metacognition, organization, perseverance, planning, self-control, task initiation or completion, time management, and working memory.
Mixed Age Groups
& Small Class Sizes
Mixed age groups benefit student’s growth, particularly for those with learning differences. It promotes nurturing environments with greater leadership development and less academic competition. The classroom more closely mimics the real world where we are not isolated with our peers. It also eliminates the expectation that all learners must achieve the same skills at the same pace and the stigma if that doesn’t happen. Students with smaller student to teacher ratios​ receive more attention. With fewer students, our educators have more time to create and teach individualized lessons.
Enrichment
We currently offer four enrichment classes at True North Academy, art, cooking, physical education and music. We are interested in hiring professionals for classes in coding and film making. If you are interested or know someone you would like to recommend, please contact us incomingstudents@ruenorthaz.org
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Field trips are planned periodically to enhance learning. True North Academy students frequently venture out into the world to enhance their understanding of current studies or to simply learn more about our beautiful Sonoran desert and wildlife, whether out hiking or visiting a local wild life refuge or farm.
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Social & Emotional Learning
Your child will learn how to navigate and overcome real or perceived conflict throughout the day. Specific lessons include the Zones of Regulation, where student begin to identify their emotion and the appropriate way to react. Our students gain self-awareness and self-management of behaviors and intense emotions. While some of our students are naturally social, social awareness doesn’t come easily to all people. SEL helps with their interpersonal relationship skills and supports teamwork. Another benefit that comes from focusing on our student’s social and emotional growth is an improvement in critical thinking and responsible decision making.
Curriculum at a Glance
Structured Literacy Program:
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​English Language Arts:
Handwriting Without Tears
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Math:
Math-U-See,
DreamBox,
Rocket Math
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Science, Geography, and Social Studies:
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Social and Emotional Learning
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Our process
The careful structure of our daily routine offers customization and hands-on experiences. Our students receive a blend of guided practice, instructional support, and autonomy. They are empowered to explore and take ownership of their education. Providing the best outcomes for students with learning differences cannot be accomplished through accommodations alone. We offer tailored instructional strategies to meet your child’s academic, emotional, and social needs imperative to their success.
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When combined with elements of universal design learning principles (UDL), including flexible workspaces, regular feedback, assistive technology, a variety of presented information, multi-sensory teaching, cooperative learning, and varied opportunities for assessment, the instructional methods and accommodations work synergistically. UDL guides the planning and execution of learning experiences for all students. It reflects an awareness of the unique nature of each learner. Ensuring instruction and materials are accessible to all without requiring special permissions removes the stigma that often accompanies needing support. Consequently, by removing barriers in education our students are engaged and motivated.