Mathematics, Science and Technology

Mathematics

JPPS has achieved a well-deserved reputation for excellence in mathematics. This subject is streamed, allowing each student to achieve his or her full potential. Children are moved from group to group, according to their mastery of skills. We revise, enrich, and accelerate our Mathematics curriculum on an on-going basis, in order to respond to the growing and changing needs of our students. We emphasize problem solving and the application of concepts to real-life situations.

Canadian National Mathematics League Winners

Our Grade Six students consistently place first or second in the Canadian National Mathematics League contest. This achievement reflects our outstanding mathematics program. In 2007-08 we ranked 1st in Quebec and 5th in Canada.

The Science Program

A Hands-On, Interactive Approach in a Laboratory Setting

The goal of the Science program is to guide our students in the exploration of their environment through the study of the various branches of science. Science is integrated through the science lab and classroom French studies. Our curriculum is based on progressional understanding, building on previously learned concepts and experiences from pre-kindergarten through to the Grade 6 level. We challenge students to achieve their potential through an interactive problem-solving environment. The program objectives are to:

  • Familiarize the student with general laboratory procedure.
  • Acquaint the student with the attitudes and skills integral to the scientific method.
  • Acquaint the students with the environmental challenges facing us today and help them develop a sense of responsibility.
  • Teach the students to investigate, gather data, interpret, summarize, and come to conclusions regarding the problem.

Science Fair

Students work on personal scientific inventions, which are exhibited at our annual Science Fair. Students apply learned concepts and develop their personal inventions. They identify areas of interest and learn how to prepare and submit an abstract describing their projects.

Technology

Computer Science Program

The goal of our program is for our students to attain full computer literacy. From pre-kindergarten through Grade 6, the computer becomes a fundamental learning tool. Computer learning is integrated across all disciplines. Every classroom has computers that are connected to the Internet via cable modem. JPPS provides writing labs, robotics labs, and a multimedia centre for personal advanced work. The computer labs are taught by specialists.

Classroom computers are equipped with software for both English- and French-language instruction. Our Grade 4-6 students have begun a pilot project with laptops for all students (LINK). JPPS students regularly take first place in regional computer contests.

Robotics in the 21st Century

JPPS is the first and only school in Quebec to teach this course. Spectrum of Canada has chosen our school to be the first in introducing the Lego-Robotics program in Quebec, based on our highly developed Computer Science curriculum. The students build their inventions using an RCX—a LEGO microcomputer that the students program using a PC computer—and LEGO pieces. It serves as the brain of their inventions, using sensors, motors, and lamps. This novel program requires the application of many skills, and it engages the student’s multiple intelligences. This program reinforces the fact that JPPS is the leader in bringing the education of the 21st century into the classroom.