Academics
Junior School

Grades 4 - 7

INTERMEDIATE PROGRAM

In the intermediate program, students build critical-thinking and problem-solving capacity through applied skills learning. In grades 6 and 7, students take electives aligned with their interests, such as animation, robotics, graphic design, engineering, musical theatre, Indigenous weaving, STEM, and cooking. Interdisciplinary collaboration supports a balanced, relevant educational experience.

  • Specialists teach French, Mandarin or Spanish, music, art, library skills, daily PE, and educational technology using school and family-owned devices.
  • Our counsellors oversee our signature character education program, CARE, which fosters empathy, personal responsibility, leadership, and social awareness.
  • Students further develop instrumental and ensemble skills in their band or strings stream. All students participate in choral classes in grades 4/5; grades 6/7 can choose vocal electives.  
  • Students are encouraged to join athletic teams, including cross country, swimming, soccer, basketball, volleyball, and track and field. 
  • Parent involvement is highly valued, with parent-teacher conferences, student-led sharing sessions, parent education workshops, grade socials, coffee mornings, and volunteer opportunities throughout the year.
  • Field trips, outdoor education trips, guest presenters, and over 30 cocurricular clubs offer unique learning experiences. 

Academic Foundations

List of 8 items.

  • Applied Design, Skills and Technologies (ADST)

    Digital Innovation and Critical Media Literacy
    This program cultivates students' digital literacy and design engineering skills, progressing from foundational knowledge to advanced applications and critical analysis.
    • Grade 4: Students establish core digital literacy by learning to validate information sources for interactive fiction projects. They apply the design engineering process to create original video games, fostering computational thinking and collaborative sharing.
    • Grade 5: Students deepen their design and engineering skills using 3D graphical modeling for 3D printing and laser cutting. Virtual and augmented reality tools enhance their spatial reasoning and programming comprehension.
    • Grade 6: Students develop critical media literacy by utilizing image manipulation tools and exploring artificial intelligence learning models. They create personal machine learning models to identify biases and inaccuracies, connecting theoretical concepts to real-world applications.
    • Grade 7: Students engage in cybersecurity awareness through capture-the-flag hacking challenges and analyze the engineering and social implications of media consumption, fostering responsible digital citizenship.
    This progression emphasizes a sequential development of digital skills, moving from creation and design to critical analysis and ethical awareness in the digital realm.

  • English

    Developing Advanced Literacy and Communication Skills
    This program cultivates students' reading comprehension, writing proficiency, and critical thinking skills through a progressive curriculum that emphasizes creative expression, analytical thinking, and effective communication.
    • Grade 4: Focuses on building foundational literacy skills through storytelling, descriptive writing, and poetry. Students learn to develop characters and settings, and begin to structure paragraphs, laying the groundwork for more complex writing.
    • Grade 5: Expands critical thinking through literature circles, persuasive writing, and speech presentations. Students analyze literary themes, develop structured multi-paragraph essays, and practice effective oral communication.
    • Grade 6: Encourages creativity and analytical thinking through research writing, twisted fairytales, and nonfiction studies. Students develop opinion essays, compare texts, and participate in structured debates, refining their argumentation skills.
    • Grade 7: Strengthens academic writing through structured essays, novel studies, and in-depth research projects like Night of the Notables. Students explore advanced literary analysis and develop clear, well-supported arguments in their written and oral communication.
    This progression emphasizes a sequential development of literacy skills, moving from creative expression to analytical thinking and advanced academic writing, preparing students for higher-level academic challenges.

  • French

    Progressive French Language Acquisition and Cultural Immersion
    This program cultivates students' French language proficiency and cultural understanding through a progressive curriculum that emphasizes conversational skills, cultural exploration, and advanced language application.
    • Grade 4: Introduces conversational basics through engaging activities like gestures, storytelling, and role-play. Students begin practicing greetings and basic phrases, establishing a foundation for oral communication.
    • Grade 5: Builds upon foundational skills by expanding vocabulary and sentence structures through enriched storytelling. Students begin to write simple paragraphs and engage in structured dialogues, developing both written and oral communication abilities.
    • Grade 6: Integrates cultural studies and digital storytelling using iMovie, fostering cultural awareness and digital literacy. Students explore Francophone traditions, create multimedia projects, and conduct research on French-speaking countries, connecting language learning with cultural context.
    • Grade 7: Enhances fluency and advanced language application through literature and DELF preparation. Students engage in debate, read and analyze French texts, and develop advanced oral proficiency, preparing them for higher-level language assessments.
    This progression emphasizes a sequential development of French language skills, moving from basic conversational abilities to advanced fluency and cultural understanding, preparing students for effective communication and cultural engagement.

  • Mandarin

    Progressive Mandarin Language Acquisition and Cultural Exploration
    This program cultivates students' Mandarin language proficiency and cultural understanding through a progressive curriculum that emphasizes vocabulary development, cultural immersion, and increasing fluency.
    • Grade 4: Focuses on establishing foundational vocabulary and introducing key cultural elements, such as the Moon Festival. Students begin practicing character writing and pronunciation, laying the groundwork for written and spoken Mandarin.
    • Grade 5: Enhances oral and written comprehension through engaging storytelling. Students expand their cultural knowledge by learning about Chinese zodiac signs and traditional foods, connecting language with cultural context.
    • Grade 6: Expands practical language skills by covering daily routines, time-telling, and cultural celebrations. Students engage in comparative studies, contrasting their daily activities with those of children in China, fostering cultural awareness.
    • Grade 7: Strengthens written and spoken proficiency through gesture-based learning and the analysis of Mandarin short stories. Students focus on fluency development, building confidence in their ability to communicate effectively in Mandarin.
    This progression emphasizes a sequential development of Mandarin language skills, moving from basic vocabulary and cultural introduction to enhanced comprehension and fluency, fostering effective communication and cultural appreciation.

  • Mathematics

    Progressive Development of Mathematical Reasoning and Real-World Application
    This program cultivates students' mathematical proficiency and problem-solving abilities through a progressive curriculum that emphasizes conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and practical application.
    • Grade 4: Introduces foundational mathematical concepts, including place value, multiplication, division, fractions, and basic geometry. Students explore mathematical reasoning through hands-on learning, games, and visual models, establishing a strong base for future learning.
    • Grade 5: Develops problem-solving skills through word problems, measurement, and graphing. Students deepen their understanding of multiplication and division, work with decimals, and explore probability, enhancing their analytical abilities.
    • Grade 6: Focuses on advancing mathematical skills with decimals, order of operations, algebraic reasoning, and data representation. Students analyze patterns, use coordinate grids, and solve multi-step equations, building a bridge towards more abstract concepts.
    • Grade 7: Bridges foundational skills with real-world applications in algebra, ratios, and advanced geometry. Students apply mathematical concepts to practical scenarios, such as financial literacy and statistical analysis, demonstrating the relevance of mathematics in everyday life.
    This progression emphasizes a sequential development of mathematical skills, moving from basic concepts to advanced applications, preparing students for higher-level mathematics and its practical use in the real world.

  • Science

    Progressive Scientific Inquiry and Exploration
    This program cultivates students' scientific curiosity and understanding through a progressive curriculum that emphasizes hands-on investigation, critical thinking, and real-world application.
    • Grade 4: Introduces foundational scientific concepts through hands-on exploration of ecosystems, moon phases, energy transfer, and states of matter. Students develop observational skills and engage in simple physics experiments, fostering early scientific inquiry.
    • Grade 5: Expands scientific understanding by examining human body systems, forces and simple machines, and BC’s natural resources. Students create models, design simple machines, and analyze environmental sustainability, connecting science to practical applications.
    • Grade 6: Deepens scientific inquiry by investigating biology, chemistry, and physics, including Newton’s Laws and space exploration. Students conduct chemistry experiments, study gravitational forces, and learn about the impact of technology on space travel, exploring more complex scientific concepts.
    • Grade 7: Prepares students for advanced scientific inquiry through independent research projects for the Science Fair, focusing on climate change, chemistry, electricity, and Earth’s history. Students build electrical circuits and analyze environmental challenges, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
    This progression emphasizes a sequential development of scientific understanding, moving from basic exploration to complex analysis and independent research, preparing students for advanced scientific study and real-world scientific challenges.

  • Social Studies

    • Grade 4 – Studies Canadian geography, Indigenous cultures, and early European explorers. Students create maps, research Indigenous traditions, and examine the impact of European contact.
    • Grade 5 – Covers immigration, the Gold Rush, Canada’s constitution, and government structures. Students study historical migration patterns, engage in role-playing activities, and debate governance systems.
    • Grade 6 – Examines global issues such as human rights, media literacy, and economic systems. Students analyze propaganda, explore international trade, and debate ethical issues in global affairs.
    • Grade 7 – Explores ancient civilizations, including Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Students compare societal structures, study mythology, and recreate historical artifacts.

  • Spanish

    Progressive Spanish Language Acquisition and Cultural Immersion
    This program cultivates students' Spanish language proficiency and cultural understanding through a progressive curriculum that emphasizes conversational skills, cultural exploration, and advanced language application.
    • Grade 4: Introduces foundational sentence structures and conversational skills. Students learn basic vocabulary and explore traditional celebrations like Día de los Muertos, establishing a foundation for cultural and linguistic understanding.
    • Grade 5: Expands vocabulary and conversational abilities through discussions about directions, holidays, and traditions. Students practice writing simple stories and engage in interactive cultural projects, enhancing both written and oral skills.
    • Grade 6: Develops grammar and fluency through projects focusing on daily routines and historical figures. Students present information about famous Hispanic figures and participate in conversational role-plays, strengthening their communicative competence.
    • Grade 7: Explores Latin American culture through the study of novels and prepares students for DELE certification. Students discuss complex themes related to family, migration, and opportunity in Spanish-language literature, fostering advanced language proficiency and cultural literacy.
    This progression emphasizes a sequential development of Spanish language skills, moving from basic conversational abilities to advanced fluency and cultural understanding, preparing students for effective communication and cultural engagement.

Creative & Physical Development

List of 4 items.

  • Visual Arts

    Progressive Development of Artistic Skills and Creative Expression
    This program cultivates students' artistic abilities and creative expression through a progressive curriculum that emphasizes foundational techniques, exploration of diverse mediums, and personal artistic development.
    • Grade 4: Focuses on foundational skills through nature-inspired drawing, painting, and sculpting. Students explore basic artistic concepts like color blending and composition, establishing a base for future artistic exploration.
    • Grade 5: Expands artistic techniques by introducing movement, printmaking, and tonal studies. Students create print-based artwork and learn to represent light and shadow, enhancing their understanding of visual representation.
    • Grade 6: Introduces commercial art concepts like asymmetry and point of view. Students develop graphic design projects and explore modern art styles, broadening their understanding of artistic applications and styles.
    • Grade 7: Encourages personal artistic expression through sketchbooks and 3D art. Students create sculptures and mixed-media pieces, fostering individual creativity and the development of a personal artistic voice.
    This progression emphasizes a sequential development of artistic skills, moving from basic techniques to advanced creative expression, preparing students for further artistic exploration and personal artistic development.

  • Music

    Progressive Musical Development and Ensemble Performance
    This program cultivates students' musical skills and ensemble abilities through a progressive curriculum that emphasizes foundational knowledge, technical proficiency, and advanced musical expression.
    • Grade 4: Introduces students to Band, Choral, and Strings with a focus on foundational rhythm and melody. Students learn basic musical notation and develop essential ensemble cooperation skills, establishing a base for musical collaboration.
    • Grade 5: Builds upon foundational skills by developing instrumental and vocal proficiency through ensemble work. Students focus on harmony and rhythmic coordination, enhancing their ability to perform as part of a group.
    • Grade 6: Expands music literacy and performance techniques. Students refine their sight-reading abilities and begin to explore improvisation, fostering both technical and creative musical expression.
    • Grade 7: Focuses on developing ensemble leadership and advanced performance skills. Students prepare for concerts and learn about musical arrangement, culminating in sophisticated musical performances and a deeper understanding of musical composition.
    This progression emphasizes a sequential development of musical skills, moving from basic musical concepts to advanced performance and leadership, preparing students for continued musical engagement and achievement.

  • Drama

    Grades 6-7: Progressive Development of Dramatic and Multimedia Storytelling Skills
    This program cultivates students' performance abilities and storytelling skills through a progressive curriculum that emphasizes acting, collaboration, and multimedia production.
    • Grade 6: Introduces foundational dramatic skills, including acting, collaboration, and storytelling, through video production. Students perform short scenes and explore character development, establishing a foundation for dramatic expression.
    • Grade 7: Expands performance skills by incorporating scriptwriting and multimedia storytelling. Students direct and produce their own short plays, integrating various media to enhance their storytelling and performance abilities.
    This progression emphasizes a sequential development of dramatic skills, moving from basic acting and collaboration to advanced scriptwriting and multimedia production, preparing students for creative expression and collaborative storytelling.

  • Physical Education

    Progressive Development of Physical Literacy, Teamwork, and Athletic Skills
    This program cultivates students' physical fitness, teamwork, and athletic skills through a progressive curriculum that emphasizes fundamental movements, fair play, and athletic training.
    • Grade 4: Focuses on developing fundamental movement skills, teamwork, and coordination through cooperative games and basic fitness activities. Students learn the importance of collaboration and physical activity.
    • Grade 5: Expands fitness and sportsmanship by introducing a variety of activities, including gymnastics, swimming, and track and field. Students begin to set personal fitness goals and track their progress, fostering self-awareness and personal development.
    • Grade 6: Enhances strength, endurance, and leadership through team sports. Students engage in tournament-style competitions and strategy-based activities, promoting teamwork and strategic thinking.
    • Grade 7: Focuses on structured athletic training and sports strategy. Students take on leadership roles and refine technical sports skills, preparing them for advanced athletic pursuits and fostering a deeper understanding of fair play and strategy.
    This progression emphasizes a sequential development of physical literacy and athletic skills, from basic movement and teamwork to advanced training and strategic thinking, preparing students for lifelong physical activity and potential sport achievement.


   

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  • JUNIOR SCHOOL

    BUILDING STRONG FOUNDATIONS

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    INSPIRING THE EXTRAORDINARY

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Since 1996, West Point Grey Academy has gratefully resided on the Jericho Lands, the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam Indian Band), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) Nation and sə̓lílwətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nation. Honoured to learn and play on these beautiful lands, we endeavour to be a leader in Indigenous education. In creating shared understanding and opportunities, we hope to help foster a more equitable society for all.

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West Point Grey Academy

4125 West 8th Avenue
Vancouver, B.C., V6R 4P9
Tel: 604-222-8750