Curriculum Highlights
Gwynedd-Mercy Academy provides a quality education through a comprehensive and challenging curriculum that is aligned with Pennsylvania and Archdiocesan standards. Students are actively engaged in learning and continually challenged to apply higher order thinking skills as they compose, create, experiment, and discover.
Backed by educational research and parent and faculty feedback, GMA incorporates an Honors curriculum within our grades 5-8 English/Language Arts (ELA) and grades 4-8 Math programs to further our efforts in meeting the individualized learning needs of our students. In addition, the Middle School Electives program emphasizes the importance of student choice and student voice. Electives for grades 6-8 are offered in the areas of Humanities, Technology, Fine Arts, Life Skills and those requiring a pre-requisite criteria, such as GATE (Gifted and Talented Enrichment) and GMA Today Broadcast team.
Sample Middle School Elective Options are outlined below.
Grade 6:
- Humanities - Fundamentals of Playing Chess and General Game Theory
- Technology - Podcasting and Digital Recording
- Fine Arts - World Music Drumming
- Life Skills - TechStyles
Grade 7:
- Humanities - Character Education Through the Sport of Golf
- Technology - First LEGO League Robotics Team
- Fine Arts - Ukulele I
- Life Skills - Art of Woodworking
Grade 8:
- Humanities - Film Study
- Technology - News Reporting/Broadcast/Journalism
- Fine Arts - Printmaking
- Life Skills - Culinary STEM
Kindergarten
Math
- Number sense and one to one correspondence
- Hands-on with real world relevance
- Encourages thinking critically and identifying multiple ways to solve a problem
- Introduction of addition and subtraction, as well as algebraic concepts
- IXL Math
- Progress monitoring assessments through DIBELS Math (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills
English/Integrated Language Arts
- Explicit, sequential systematic instruction
- Individualization of content for each student through small group instruction
- Dissecting various forms of literature by applying abstract thinking
- Use of leveled readers to differentiate instruction during guided reading
- Strategic scaffolding to support all students
- Progress monitoring assessments through DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills) and DAR (Diagnostic Assessments of Reading)
Science and STEM Learning
- Interactive exploration and investigation
- Projects that promote STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) and 21st century skills (Communication, Creativity, Critical Thinking and Collaboration)
- Inquiry-based approach to the scientific method
- Dynamic and engaging hands-on cross-curricular projects
Social Studies
- Forging link with extraordinary people from the past
- Geography and map skills
- Citizenship
- Appreciation for diversity and inclusion
Religion
- Mercy tradition and service outreach
- Catholic Identity
- Active participation in an faith community
World Languages
- Spanish and French
- Conversation reinforced through stories, games, and songs
- Speaking and audio comprehension
- Cultural appreciation
Creative Thinking Skills
- Hands-on experiments and challenges
- Makerspace exploration with building materials and circuits
- Exploring iPad technology
Music
- Self expression and arts appreciation
- Introduction to music
- Folk dancing and body percussion
Visual Art
- Learn to question, observe, describe, compare and contrast
- Inspire imagination and visualization
- Explore methods and materials
- Extended art enrichment opportunities available
Technology
- Keyboarding skills
- Interactive white boards, iPads and laptops
- Technology integration across all disciplines
- Coding introduced
- 1:1 devices in all classrooms enable applications and cross-curricular projects
Character
- Teaching advocacy
- Building resiliency and empathy
- Trustworthiness
Wellness
- Physical Education – personal space awareness, body management, demonstrating safety of self and others and development of locomotor and non-locomotor skills.
- Health - Understanding proper nutrition, age appropriate drug information, germs and pathogens, healthful living with an appreciation for hygiene/dental health and safety/injury prevention.
- Extended enrichment opportunities include competitive and recreational athletics as well as after-school dance
1st Grade
Mathematics
- Develop critical thinking
- Problem solving skills
- Number sense
- Operations and algebraic thinking skills
- Place value
- Real-world application of time and money
- Introduction to graphing
- Small-group instruction furthers differentiation
- IXL Math
- Progress monitoring assessments through DIBELS Math (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills in Math)
English/Integrated Language Arts
- Appreciation of literature through different genres
- Introduction to the writing process - brainstorming, writing, editing, proofreading, revising, publishing
- Development of fluency and comprehension, understanding of story elements and emphasis on sentence structure
- Use of leveled readers to individualize instruction during guided reading
- Leveled word study/spelling
- Progress monitoring assessments through DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills and DAR (Diagnostic Assessments of Reading)
Science and STEM Learning
- Inquiry-based approach to the Scientific Method
- Engineering design process
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) projects
- Energy, Plants and Animals, Patterns in Space
- LED circuits
- Makerspace projects
Social Studies
- Community connections
- Informed citizens
- Global perspective
- Project-based approach to instruction
- Current events
Religion
- Integrated Bible stories and formal prayers
- Catholic identity
- Emphasis on God’s message of Mercy
- Active participation in a faith community
World Languages
- Spanish and French
- Conversation reinforced through stories, games, and songs
- Speaking and audio comprehension
- Cultural appreciation
Creative Thinking Skills
- Discover - Hands-on experiments and challenges
- Makerspace exploration with building materials and circuits
- Exploring iPad technology
Music
- Music literacy skills
- Boomwackers, tone chime & handbells
- Folk dancing
- Folk songs of other cultures
Visual Art
- 2-D, 3-D projects
- Exploring the elements of art
- Introduction into the concept of Art History
- Extended art enrichment opportunities available
Technology
- Keyboarding
- Word, PowerPoint
- Coding concepts
- Interactive whiteboard and document cameras
- 1:1 devices in all classrooms enable applications and cross-curricular projects
Library Skills
- Recognize shelving organization systems
- Distinguish fiction from non-fiction works
- Use of PowerKids, BookFlix, and Trueflix
Wellness
- Physical Education – personal space awareness, body management, demonstrating safety of self and others and development of locomotor and non-locomotor skills.
- Health - Understanding proper nutrition, age appropriate drug information, germs and pathogens, healthful living with an appreciation for hygiene/dental health and safety/injury prevention.
- Extended enrichment opportunities include competitive and recreational athletics as well as after-school dance
2nd Grade
Mathematics
- Explore strategies for multiple ways to solve a math problem
- Introduce the concepts of multiplication and division
- Algebraic thinking skills
- Introduce concept of data
- Understanding properties of operations
- Use standards of measurement to solve real-world problems
- Analysis of graphs and charts furthers differentiation
- IXL Math
- Progress monitoring assessments through DIBELS Math (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills in Math)
English/Integrated Language Arts
- Identify and locate text evidence
- Apply ‘reading to learn’ skills
- Introduce cursive handwriting
- Build writing, proofreading, and editing skills
- Use leveled readers to individualize instruction through small groups and guided reading
- Leveled word study/spelling
- Introduction of novels to integrate cross-curricular instruction
- Progress monitoring assessments through DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills) and DAR (Diagnostic Assessments of Reading)
Science and STEM Learning
- Investigate States of Matter, Plants and Animal Life, and Earth’s Materials
- Conduct experiments and complete hands-on learning activities
- Apply engineering skills in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) process to solve real-world challenges
- Makerspace projects
Social Studies
- Focus on neighborhoods and communities
- Employ and apply map skills
- Create an awareness of the earth’s resources
- Emphasis on citizenship, government and leadership
Religion
- Guide sacramental preparation for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist
- Read, discuss, and reflect upon the Sunday Gospel
- Share Mercy tradition and provide service outreach opportunities
- Active participation in a faith community
World Languages
- Spanish and French
- Introduction to reading and writing
- Role play conversations
- Cultural appreciation
Creative Thinking Skills
- Discover—Hands-on experiments and problem-based learning
- Makerspace exploration with building materials and circuits
- Exploring iPad technology
Music
- Sacrament preparation
- Xylophones and barred percussion instruments
- Folk songs of other cultures
- Improvisation and composition
- Extended enrichment opportunity includes piano lessons
Visual Art
- Cross-curricular projects related to literature and the seasons
- Relationship of art history to class projects
- Extended art enrichment opportunities available
Technology
- Keyboarding
- Word, PowerPoint
- Coding concepts
- Interactive whiteboard and document cameras
- 1:1 devices in all classrooms enable applications and cross-curricular projects
Library Skills
- Recognize shelving organization systems
- Distinguish fiction from non-fiction works
- Use of PowerKids, BookFlix, and Trueflix
Wellness
- Physical Education – personal space awareness, body management, demonstrating safety of self and others and development of locomotor and non-locomotor skills.
- Health - Understanding proper nutrition, age appropriate drug information, germs and pathogens, healthful living with an appreciation for hygiene/dental health and safety/injury prevention.
- Extended enrichment opportunities include competitive and recreational athletics as well as after-school dance
3rd Grade
Mathematics
- Number sense development and refinement through whole number operations
- Operational application and recall with accuracy and speed
- Represent, analyze and interpret data through charts, graphs, and tables
- Development of fractional understanding through construction with manipulatives
- Elapsed time principles, introduction to volume, mass, weight, area, and perimeter
- Algebraic thinking skills
- Continental Math League
- IXL Math
- Progress monitoring assessments through DIBELS Math (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills in Math)
English/Integrated Language Arts
- Literature circles and small group guided reading opportunities
- Investigation of enriched text through read alouds
- Exposure of multiple genres of text with primary focuses on fictional and nonfictional sources
- Projects that promote 21st Century learning skills of communication, creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration
- Introduction to public speaking through research presentations and text evaluations
- Exposure to multiple genres of writing through use of the entire writing process
- Constructed response writing citing evidence from text
- Use of leveled readers and novels to individualize instruction during literature circles
- Cursive writing instruction
- Leveled word study/spelling
- Introduction of novels to integrate cross-curricular instruction
- Progress monitoring assessments through DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills) and DAR (Diagnostic Assessments of Reading)
Science
- Inquiry and investigation through use of the Scientific Method
- Forces and Motion, Energy and Its Forms, Plants/Living Things/Ecosystems, Weather Patterns
- Weekly opportunities for hands-on investigative learning
- Exploration and analysis of the students’ surrounding physical environment
- Examination of ecosystems, life cycles, and embryology through the hatching of butterflies, hatching of chicks, owl pellet dissection and Animal Research Report
- Classification of plants and animals followed by field trip to Perkiomen Water Shed
Social Studies
- Study and investigation of local, national, and global communities
- Map skills investigating world geography with a focus on continents and oceans
- United States history and government and global citizenship development
- Communication opportunities with local and national government officials
- Native American and early settler studies as well as investigation of culture and heritages
- Investigation and study of famous Americans and current events
Religion
- Mercy tradition and outreach including visitation to Mercy Neighborhood Ministries
- Pray the rosary, Apostles’ Creed, and the Morning Offering
- History of the Church and the investigation of study of its leaders and influential members
- St. John Neumann shrine visitation and reflection
- Active participation in a faith community
World Languages (French and Spanish)
- Spanish and French conversation reinforced through stories, games and songs
- Speaking and audio comprehension as well as cultural appreciation
- Role play conversations related to each topic of study: family, animals, body parts, food, dates
STEM/Creative Thinking Skills
- Discovery - hands on experiments and problem-based learning
- Makerspace exploration with building materials and circuits
- Exploring iPad technology using green screen and coding apps
Music
- Music begins with Play! Imitation, experimentation and personal expression through singing and dancing and the playing of instruments
- Arts Festival
- Extended enrichment opportunities include Junior Choir, piano lessons and Orff Ensemble
Visual Art
- Geometric shapes as springboard to art projects and 3D shapes and sculptures
- Utilizing artists and holidays throughout the year as inspiration
- Studying art history as it relates to grade level projects
- Extended art enrichment opportunities available
Technology
- Google Drive , Docs, Sheets and Slides application across curriculum
- Systems thinking utilizing coding applications and keyboarding practices
- 1:1 devices in all classrooms enable applications and cross-curricular projects
Library
- Learn basic elements of research and how to use digital resources
- Develop familiarity with the parts of a book and organization of a library
- Utilize graphic organizers
Wellness
- Physical Education—Personal space awareness, body management, safety, locomotor and non-locomotor skill development
- Health—Understand mental and emotional health concepts and safety/injury prevention
- Extended enrichment opportunities include competitive and recreational athletics as well as after-school dance
4th Grade
Mathematics
- Opportunity for Honors Math
- Advanced operations for multiplication and division
- Multi-step operations for fractions and decimals
- Introduction to geometry with angles
- Area formulas and 2-dimensional shapes
- Writing and expanding the use of mathematics language/vocabulary
- Collaborative learning and real-world applications
- Continental Math League
- IXL Math
- Honors Math includes 4th and 5th grade level content
English/Integrated Language Arts
- Advanced Spelling patterns and phonemic awareness
- Grammar skills, mechanics, and usage
- Vocabulary strategies, meanings, and application
- Reading genres, skills, and comprehension
- Ongoing practice of decoding, fluency, and expression
- Exposure to diverse texts including novels and excerpts from children's literature
- Development of the writing process through various forms
- Independent cursive writing
- Leveled word study/spelling
- Participation in ELA Olympiads
Science
- Units of Study: Earth Science (Landforms), Physical Science (Energy – Electrical Circuits), and Life Science (Plants and Animals & Digestive, Circulatory, and Nervous Systems)
- Hands-on experiments, labs and activities
- Inquiry-based learning
- Independent use of microscope
Social Studies
- Pennsylvania history, geography, and state government
- Study of William Penn and the early colonists
- Focus on enhancing map skills
- Famous Pennsylvanians Living History Museum
- Field trip to the Harrisburg State Capitol
Religion
- Mercy tradition and study of the Works of Mercy
- Learning about the Ten Commandments, Beatitudes and the Liturgical Year.
- Morning Meeting in homerooms and Mercy Connection service projects
- Active participation in a faith community
World Languages
- French and Spanish
- Emphasis on reading, writing and grammar
- Speaking and audio comprehension as well as cultural appreciation
- Role play to demonstrate listening and speaking proficiency
STEM/Creative Thinking Skills
- Project-based learning encouraging innovative thinking
- Invention Convention
- Exploring iPad technology using green screen and coding apps
- GATE (Gifted and Talented Enrichment) Program for qualifying students
Music
- Enhance knowledge of musical elements while refining fine motor skills by learning the recorder
- Compose recorder piece and participate in Arts Festival and Band/Strings/Junior Choir program
- Play Xylophones and other barred percussion instruments
- Extended enrichment opportunities include Junior Choir, piano lessons and Orff Ensemble, band and strings ensemble
Visual Art
- Focus on Pennsylvania connections to support Social Studies curriculum
- Native American Art
- Studying art history as it relates to grade level projects
- Extended art enrichment opportunities available
Technology
- Expand use of Google Drive applications and Google Classroom
- Keyboarding practice and annual typing challenge
- Coding methods and use of coding to program robots
- 1:1 devices in all classrooms/explore web tools to foster study skills and cross-curricular projects
Library
- Utilize online research and Big6 research process as well as graphic organizers
- Discussion of what plagiarism means and organizing relevant information
- Note taking in support of classroom instruction
- Extended enrichment opportunities include Reading Olympics
Wellness
- Physical Education—Individual, dual and team game activities, strength, flexibility and
- cardiovascular fitness
- Health—Analyze nutritional concepts, growth and development changes between childhood and adolescence and the nature and function of body systems
- Extended enrichment opportunities include competitive and recreational athletics as well as after-school dance
5th Grade
Mathematics
- Mastery of fraction and decimal operations
- Geometric measurement for volume and coordinate planes
- Evaluate and interpret numerical expressions for all operations
- Writing and expanding the use of mathematics language/vocabulary
- Progression from concrete to abstract thinking
- Introduction to Algebraic expressions
- Collaborative learning and real-world applications
- Continental Math League
- IXL Math
- Honors Math includes 5th and 6th grade content
English/Integrated Language Arts
- Differentiated instruction to meet the needs of all learners
- Develop writing competency to enhance critical thinking skills
- Blend of fiction and nonfiction novels supplements reading series
- Students identify reading/writing for various purposes and audiences
- Various writing forms include opinion, informative, and narrative
- Proper grammar, usage, and mechanics are applied to formal and informal writing pieces
- Word study
- Participation in ELA Olympiads
Science
- Units of Study: Properties of Matter, Forces and Motion, Growth and Survival, Weather and the Water Cycle, Earth and Space
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math)-focused curriculum
- Cross-cutting concepts connected to Next Generation Science Standards within the three branches of science
- Multi-dimensional learning of disciplinary core ideas
- Hone and develop critical thinking skills as applied to Earth, Life, and Physical science
- Participation in Science Olympiads
Social Studies
- Focus on North America and South America
- Appreciation of cultural diversity and inclusion
- Geography, topography, and cartography (study of maps)
- Promoting global citizenship and an understanding of the global forces that take place
- Participation in Social Studies Olympics
Religion
- Focuses on the increase capacity for reflecting on their spiritual lives
- Introduce preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation and guide growth in the sacraments
- Concentration on Catholic identity as disciples of Jesus Christ
- Active participation in a faith community
Public Speaking
- Build responsibility in communication and confidence in public speaking
- Develop active listening skills and effective interpersonal communication strategies
- Provide nurturing environment for self-expression through speaking and writing opportunities
World Languages
- French and Spanish
- Emphasis on reading, writing and grammar
- Speaking and audio comprehension as well as cultural appreciation
- Role play to demonstrate listening and speaking proficiency
- Discern World Language preference for middle school
STEM/Creative Thinking Skills
- Defined STEM Curriculum
- Student exposure to authentic challenges in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) careers
- Makerspaces and Breakout boxes
- GATE (Gifted and Talented Enrichment) Program for qualifying students
Music
- Students continue to develop their knowledge of the elements of music
- Refine fine and gross motor skills through folk dance, body percussion creative movement and instrument instruction
- Extended enrichment opportunities include Senior Choir, piano and voice lessons and Orff Ensemble, band and strings ensemble
Visual Art
- Increased depth in drawing and painting skills and techniques
- Experimenting with perspective and multimedia
- Studying art history as it relates to grade level projects
- Extended art enrichment opportunities available
Technology
- Cross-curricular use of 3D design software to make 3D prints
- Coding methods and use of coding to program robots
- 1:1 Devices in all classrooms/expand use of Google Drive applications and Google Classroom
Library
- POWERLibrary and online databases and resources
- Developing research questions and sub-questions and use Big6 research process
- Analysis of source materials and relevant information
- Extended enrichment opportunities include Reading Olympics
Wellness
- Physical Education—Individual, dual and team game activities, strength, flexibility and
- cardiovascular fitness
- Health—Analyze nutritional concepts, growth and development changes between childhood and adolescence and the nature and function of body systems
- Extended enrichment opportunities include competitive and recreational athletics as well as after-school dance
6th Grade
Mathematics
- Expressions and equations and integer operations
- Algebraic expressions, equations and geometry
- Ratio, proportion and percentages, identify formulas for areas, surface area and volume
- Cooperative learning and real-world applications
- Development of abstract thinking
- Continental Math League
- IXL Math
- Honors Math includes Pre-Algebra
English/Integrated Language Arts
- Advanced development of story elements and figurative language
- Project-based learning and differentiated instruction to meet the needs of all learners
- Develop writing competency to enhance critical thinking skills
- Cross-curricular non-fiction novel studies encompass Science and Social Studies
- Use of novels to integrate all language arts concepts
- Vocabulary workshop
Science
- Units of Study: Forces and Energy, Science and Technology, Chemical Building Blocks, Periodic Table, Engineering Design Process, Speed/Acceleration/Velocity
- Focus on Next Generation Science Standards cross-cutting concepts
- Incorporation of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) and project-based learning activities
- Multi-dimensional approach to core discipline ideas
- Emphasis on collaborative learning
- Participation in Science Olympiads
Social Studies
- Appreciating and understanding the past from Prehistory to the Renaissance
- European exploration and colonization
- Utilizing students’ strengths to maximize understanding
- Promoting skills in 21st century learning, innovating, and technology
- Study of the geography of each continent
- Cartography (study of maps)
- Participation in Social Studies Olympiads
Religion
- Preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation
- Focus on Old Testament and connections to New Testament
- Strengthening of Catholic identity through prayer and service
- Active participation in a faith community
Public Speaking
- Develop students’ speech writing and presentation skills
- Build research and critical thinking strategies
- Foster effective use of language and speech delivery
- Guide students through the process of writing and presenting various forms of speeches
World Languages
- Either French or Spanish is selected
- Use of online text, digital program and workbook with greater concentration on conversation
- Continue emphasis on reading, writing and grammar
- Role play to demonstrate listening and speaking proficiency
- Complete projects to learn about the language and culture
STEM/Creative Thinking Skills
- Defined STEM Curriculum
- Student exposure to authentic challenges in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) careers
- Makerspaces and Breakout boxes
- GATE (Gifted and Talented Enrichment) Program for qualifying students
Music
- Music literacy, improvisation and composition
- Percussion pieces and ensembles on tubano drums, as well as ukulele instruction
- Multimodal approach to refine complex concepts
- Extended enrichment opportunities include Senior Choir, piano and voice lessons, band and strings ensemble
Visual Art
- Explore two-point perspective, atmospheric perspective other ways that artists depict space
- Studying art history as it relates to grade level projects
- Extended art enrichment opportunities available
Technology
- Expand use of Google suite of applications for efficient work flow between student and teacher
- Use coding and systems thinking to program robots
- 1:1 Devices in all classrooms/cross-curricular use of 3D design software to make 3D prints
Library
- Instruction in determining author credibility, keyword search strategies and website evaluation
- Oral/written process and visual presentation of research and resource evaluation techniques
- Extended enrichment opportunities include Reading Olympics
Wellness
- Physical Education—Application of skills to complex patterns—Individual, dual, team and leisure activities
- Health—Identify possible lifetime health concerns, health and safety issues, factors that influence drug and alcohol use
- Extended enrichment opportunities include competitive and recreational athletics as well as after-school dance
7th Grade
Mathematics
- Pre-algebra and Geometry
- Signed rational number operations
- Development of abstract thinking
- Interpretation and translation of real-world problems into algebraic models
- Emphasis on collaborative learning and individualization of instruction
- Continental Math League
- IXL Math
- Honors Math includes Algebra 1
English/Integrated Language Arts
- Application of critical thinking skills to further understand story elements
- Introduction to the study of Shakespeare
- Novel studies spanning various genres and cross-curricular areas
- Emphasis on essay writing specifically targeting increased vocabulary, paragraph transitions, introductions, and conclusions
- Use novels to integrate cross-curricular instruction
- Vocabulary workshop
- Participation in ELA Olympiads
Science
- Units of Study: Ecology and the Environment, Cells and Heredity, Diversity of Life, Human Body Systems Practicum
- Interactive experiments, labs and activities in a fully-equipped science lab setting
- Engage natural curiosity about our world using state of the art lab equipment/microscopes
- Critical problem solving opportunities to develop scientists using current world challenges
- Participation in Science Olympiads
Social Studies
- Age of Exploration
- American Revolution and major events and people that shaped Early America
- Introduction to the causes of the Civil War
- Supplement lessons with a variety of media to appeal to all learners
- Source historical documents to determine perspective, bias, and reliability
- Project-based learning derived from historical content
- Participation in Social Studies Olympiads
Religion
- Mercy tradition and service outreach
- Catholic identity
- Faith development as part of an active community
- Active participation in a faith community
Public Speaking
- Build impromptu and extemporaneous speaking skills
- Introduce and develop informal group discussion, open debate, and interview techniques
- Further advance speech writing and delivery skills
- Introduce acting and improvisation techniques
World Languages
- Continue the study of Either French or Spanish based on 6th grade selection
- Use of online text, digital program and workbook with greater concentration on conversation
- Continue emphasis on reading, writing and grammar
- Role play to demonstrate listening and speaking proficiency, restaurant project
- Real world application of language
STEM/Creative Thinking Skills
- Defined STEM Curriculum
- Student exposure to authentic challenges in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) careers
- Makerspaces/Breakout boxes
- GATE (Gifted and Talented Enrichment) Program for qualifying students
Music
- Ukulele instruction, option to participate in Senior Choir, voice lessons
- Multimodal approach is used to refine concepts in music literacy, improvisation and composition
- Participation in annual school musical
- Extended enrichment opportunities include Senior Choir, piano and voice lessons, band and strings ensemble
Visual Art
- Working with figures and 3D shapes
- Explore art of many cultures
- Studying art history as it relates to grade level projects
- Extended art enrichment opportunities available
Technology
- Expand use of Google suite of applications for efficient work flow between student and teacher
- Use coding and systems thinking to program robots
- 1:1 Devices in all classrooms/Cross-curricular use of 3D design software to make 3D prints
Library
- Develop and revise research questions and implementation of The Research Cycle method
- Use of print and digital indices, self-assessment/evaluation in the research process
- Extended enrichment opportunities include Reading Olympics
Wellness
- Physical Education—Application of skills to complex patterns—Individual, dual, team and leisure activities
- Health—Identify possible lifetime health concerns, health and safety issues, factors that
- influence drug and alcohol use
- Extended enrichment opportunities include competitive and recreational athletics as well as after-school dance
8th Grade
Mathematics
- Algebra 1
- Mastery of writing and graphing linear equations, systems of equations, functions
- Use of graphing calculator
- Interpretation and translation of real-world problems into algebraic models
- Cooperative learning
- Continental Math League
- IXL Math
- Honors Math includes advanced Algebra 1 and Algebra 2
English/Integrated Language Arts
- Abstract thinking to identify inferences, figurative language, depth of characters/plot/resolution
- In-depth novel study of greater length and sophistication
- Study of Shakespearean literature
- Essay writing, specifically targeting introductions and conclusions
- Use novels as jumping off point for makerspace projects
- Vocabulary workshop
- Participation in ELA Olympiads
Science
- Units of Study: Earth Surface and Structure, Water and the Atmosphere, Astronomy and Space, Introduction to Chemistry
- Interactive experiments, labs and activities in a fully-equipped science lab setting
- Engage natural curiosity about our world using state-of-the-art lab equipment
- Critical problem solving opportunities to develop scientists using current world challenges
- Participation in Science Olympiads
Social Studies
- American History: Civil War to present
- Supplement lessons with a variety of media (articles, videos, podcasts, music) to appeal to
- all learners
- Source historical documents to determine perspective, bias, and reliability
- Project-based learning derived from historical content
- Participation in Social Studies Olympiads
Religion
- Mercy tradition, outreach and Catholic identity
- Church history as it relates to contemporary issues
- Active participation in a faith community
Public Speaking
- Introduce structure and protocol for competitive debate
- Explore screenwriting and video production/advanced acting and improvisation techniques
- Discuss media literacy and its influence on our society
World Languages
- Continue the study of French or Spanish based on 6th grade selection
- Use of online text, digital program and workbook with greater concentration on conversation
- Continue emphasis on reading, writing and grammar
- Role play to demonstrate listening and speaking proficiency
- Student personal essays
STEM/Creative Thinking Skills
- Defined STEM Curriculum
- Student exposure to authentic challenges in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) careers
- Makerspaces and Breakout boxes
- GATE (Gifted and Talented Enrichment) Program for qualifying students
Music
- Ukulele instruction, option to participate in Senior Choir, voice lessons
- Multimodal approach to refine concepts in music literacy, improvisation and composition
- Participation in annual school musical as the lead cast and stage crew leaders
- Extended enrichment opportunities include Senior Choir, piano and voice lessons, band and strings ensemble
Visual Art
- Continue with figurative art
- Contemporary art and abstraction
- Studying art history as it relates to grade level projects
- Enriched art enrichment opportunities available
Technology
- Expand use of Google suite of applications for efficient work flow between student and teacher
- Use coding and systems thinking to program robots
- 1:1 Devices in all classrooms/cross-curricular use of 3D design software to make 3D prints
Library
- Search for reference and periodical articles, images, videos in electronic subscription databases
- Develop a personal system of note taking using strategies such as NoodleTools or Cornell notes
- Extended enrichment includes Reading Olympics
Wellness
- Physical Education—Application of skills to complex patterns—Individual, dual, team and leisure activities
- Health—Identify possible lifetime health concerns, health and safety issues, factors that influence drug and alcohol use
- Extended enrichment opportunities include competitive and recreational athletics as well as after-school dance
Curriculum Highlights by Subject Area
- Mathematics
- English/Integrated Language Arts
- Science
- Social Studies
- Religion
- Public Speaking
- World Languages
- Creative Thinking Skills/STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math)
- Music
- Visual Art
- Technology
- Library Skills
- Wellness
Mathematics
Kindergarten
- Number sense and one to one correspondence
- Hands-on with real world relevance
- Encourages thinking critically and identifying multiple ways to solve a problem
- Introduction of addition and subtraction as well as algebraic concepts
- IXL Math
- Progress monitoring assessments through DIBELS Math (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills in Math)
1st Grade
- Develop critical thinking
- Problem solving skills
- Number sense
- Operations and algebraic thinking skills
- Place value
- Real-world application of time and money
- Introduction to graphing
- Small-group instruction furthers differentiation
- IXL Math
- Progress monitoring assessments through DIBELS Math
2nd Grade
- Explore strategies for multiple ways to solve a math problem
- Introduce the concepts of multiplication and division
- Algebraic thinking skills
- Introduce concept of data
- Understanding properties of operations
- Use standards of measurement to solve real-world problems
- Analysis of graphs and charts furthers differentiation
- IXL Math
- Progress monitoring assessments through DIBELS Math
3rd Grade
- Number sense development and refinement through whole number operations
- Operational application and recall with accuracy and speed
- Represent, analyze and interpret data through charts, graphs, and tables
- Development of fractional understanding through construction with manipulatives
- Elapsed time principles, introduction to volume, mass, weight, area, and perimeter
- Algebraic thinking skills
- Continental Math League
- IXL Math
- Progress monitoring assessments through DIBELS Math
4th Grade
- Opportunity for Honors Math
- Advanced operations for multiplication and division
- Multi-step operations for fractions and decimals
- Introduction to geometry with angles
- Area formulas and 2-dimensional shapes
- Writing and expanding the use of mathematics language/vocabulary
- Collaborative learning and real-world applications
- Continental Math League
- IXL Math
- Honors Math includes 4th and 5th grade content
5th Grade
- Mastery of fraction and decimal operations
- Geometric measurement for volume and coordinate planes
- Evaluate and interpret numerical expressions for all operations
- Writing and expanding the use of mathematics language/vocabulary
- Progression from concrete to abstract thinking
- Introduction to Algebraic expressions
- Collaborative learning and real-world applications
- Continental Math League
- IXL Math
- Honors Math includes 5th and 6th grade content
6th Grade
- Expressions and equations and integer operations
- Algebraic expressions, equations and geometry
- Ratio, proportion and percentages, identify formulas for areas, surface area and volume
- Cooperative learning and real-world applications
- Development of abstract thinking
- Continental Math League
- IXL Math
- Honors Math includes Pre-Algebra
7th Grade
- Pre-algebra and Geometry
- Signed rational number operations
- Development of abstract thinking
- Interpretation and translation of real-world problems into algebraic models
- Emphasis on collaborative learning and individualization of instruction
- Continental Math League
- IXL Math
- Honors Math includes Algebra 1
8th Grade
- Algebra 1
- Mastery of writing and graphing linear equations, systems of equations, functions
- Use of graphing calculator
- Interpretation and translation of real-world problems into algebraic models
- Cooperative learning
- Continental Math League
- IXL Math
- Honors Math includes advanced Algebra 1 and Algebra 2
English/Integrated Language Arts
Kindergarten
- Explicit, sequential systematic instruction
- Individualization of content for each student through small group instruction
- Dissecting various forms of literature by applying abstract thinking
- Use of leveled readers to differentiate instruction during guided reading
- Strategic scaffolding to support all students
- Progress monitoring assessments through DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills) and DAR (Diagnostic Assessments of Reading)
1st Grade
- Appreciation of literature through different genres
- Introduction to the writing process - brainstorming, writing, editing, proofreading, revising, publishing
- Development of fluency and comprehension, understanding of story elements and emphasis on sentence structure
- Use of leveled readers to individualize instruction during guided reading
- Leveled word study/spelling
- Progress monitoring assessments through DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills) and DAR (Diagnostic Assessments of Reading)
2nd Grade
- Identify and locate text evidence
- Apply ‘reading to learn’ skills
- Introduce cursive handwriting
- Build writing, proofreading, and editing skills
- Use leveled readers to individualize instruction through small groups and guided reading
- Leveled word study/spelling
- Introduction of novels to integrate cross-curricular instruction
- Progress monitoring assessments through DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills) and DAR (Diagnostic Assessments of Reading)
3rd Grade
- Literature circles and small group guided reading opportunities
- Investigation of enriched text through read alouds
- Exposure of multiple genres of text with primary focuses on fictional and nonfictional sources
- Projects that promote 21st Century learning skills of communication, creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration
- Introduction to public speaking through research presentations and text evaluations
- Exposure to multiple genres of writing through use of the entire writing process
- Constructed response writing citing evidence from text
- Use of leveled readers and novels to individualize instruction during literature circles
- Cursive writing instruction
- Leveled word study/spelling
- Introduction of novels to integrate cross-curricular instruction
- Progress monitoring assessments through DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills) and DAR (Diagnostic Assessments of Reading)
4th Grade
- Advanced Spelling patterns and phonemic awareness
- Grammar skills, mechanics, and usage
- Vocabulary strategies, meanings, and application
- Reading genres, skills, and comprehension
- Ongoing practice of decoding, fluency, and expression
- Exposure to diverse texts including novels and excerpts from children's literature
- Development of the writing process through various forms
- Independent cursive writing
- Leveled word study/spelling
- Participation in ELA Olympiads
5th Grade
- Differentiated instruction to meet the needs of all learners
- Develop writing competency to enhance critical thinking skills
- Blend of fiction and nonfiction novels supplement the reading series
- Students identify reading/writing for various purposes and audiences
- Various writing forms include opinion, informative, and narrative
- Proper grammar, usage, and mechanics are applied to formal and informal writing pieces
- Word study
- Participation in ELA Olympiads
6th Grade
- Advanced development of story elements and figurative language
- Project-based learning and differentiated instruction to meet the needs of all learner
- Develop writing competency to enhance critical thinking skills
- Cross-curricular non-fiction novel studies encompass Science and Social Studies
- Use of novels to integrate all language arts concepts
- Vocabulary workshop
- Participation in ELA Olympiads
7th Grade
- Application of critical thinking skills to further understand story elements
- Introduction to the study of Shakespeare
- Novel studies spanning various genres and cross-curricular areas
- Emphasis on essay writing specifically targeting increased vocabulary, paragraph transitions, introductions, and conclusions
- Use novels to integrate cross-curricular instruction
- Vocabulary workshop
- Participation in ELA Olympiads
8th Grade
- Abstract thinking to identify inferences, figurative language, depth of characters/plot/resolution
- In-depth novel study of greater length and sophistication
- Study of Shakespearean literature
- Essay writing, specifically targeting introductions and conclusions
- Use novels as jumping off point for makerspace projects
- Vocabulary workshop
- Participation in ELA Olympiads
Science
Kindergarten
- Interactive exploration and investigation
- Projects that promote STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) and the 21st Century Skills (communication, creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration)
- Inquiry-based approach to the Scientific Method
- Dynamic and engaging hands-on cross-curricular projects
1st Grade
- Inquiry-based approach to the Scientific Method
- Engineering design process
- STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) projects
- Energy, Plants and Animals, Patterns in Space
- LED circuits
- Makerspace projects
2nd Grade
- Investigate States of Matter, Plants and Animal Life, and Earth’s Materials
- Conduct experiments and complete hands-on learning activities
- Apply engineering skills in the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) process to solve real-world challenges
- Makerspace projects
3rd Grade
- Inquiry and investigation through use of the Scientific Method
- Forces and Motion, Energy and Its Forms, Plants/Living Things/Ecosystems, Weather Patterns
- Weekly opportunities for hands-on investigative learning
- Exploration and analysis of the students’ surrounding physical environment
- Examination of ecosystems, life cycles, and embryology through the hatching of butterflies, hatching of chicks, owl pellet dissection and Animal Research Report
- Classification of plants and animals followed by field trip to Perkiomen Water Shed
4th Grade
- Units of Study: Earth Science (Landforms), Physical Science (Energy – Electrical Circuits), and Life Science (Plants and Animals & Digestive, Circulatory, and Nervous Systems)
- Hands-on experiments, labs, and activities
- Inquiry-based learning
- Independent use of microscope
5th Grade
- Units of Study: Properties of Matter, Forces and Motion, Growth and Survival, Weather and the Water Cycle, Earth and Space
- STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) focused curriculum
- Cross-cutting concepts connected to Next Generation Science Standards within the three branches of science
- Multi-dimensional learning of disciplinary core ideas
- Hone and develop critical thinking skills as applied to Earth, Life, and Physical science
- Participation in Science Olympiads
6th Grade
- Units of Study: Forces and Energy, Science and Technology, Chemical Building Blocks, Periodic Table, Engineering Design Process, Speed/Acceleration/Velocity
- Focus on Next Generation Science Standards cross-cutting concepts
- Incorporation of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) and project-based learning activities
- Multi-dimensional approach to core discipline ideas
- Emphasis on collaborative learning
- Participation in Science Olympiads
7th Grade
- Units of Study: Ecology and the Environment, Cells and Heredity, Diversity of Life, Human Body Systems Practicum
- Interactive experiments, labs, and activities in a science lab setting
- Engage natural curiosity about our world using state of the art lab equipment/microscopes
- Critical problem solving opportunities to develop scientists using current world challenges
- Participation in Science Olympiads
8th Grade
- Units of Study: Earth Surface and Structure, Water and the Atmosphere, Astronomy and Space, Introduction to Chemistry
- Interactive experiments, labs, and activities in a science lab setting
- Engage natural curiosity about our world using state of the art lab equipment
- Critical problem solving opportunities to develop scientists using current world challenges
- Participation in Science Olympiads
Social Studies
Kindergarten
- Forging link with extraordinary people from the past
- Geography and map skills
- Citizenship
- Appreciation for diversity and inclusion
1st Grade
- Community connections
- Informed citizens
- Global perspective
- Project-based approach to instruction
- Current events
2nd Grade
- Focus on neighborhoods and communities
- Employ and apply map skills
- Create an awareness of the earth’s resources
- Emphasis on citizenship, government, and leadership
3rd Grade
- Study and investigation of local, national, and global communities
- Map skills investigating world geography with a focus on continents and oceans
- United States history and government and global citizenship development
- Communication opportunities with local and national government officials
- Native American and early settler studies as well as investigation of culture and heritages
- Investigation and study of famous Americans and current events
4th Grade
- Pennsylvania history, geography, and state government
- Study of William Penn and the early colonists
- Focus on enhancing map skills
- Famous Pennsylvanians Living History Museum
- Field trip to the Harrisburg State Capitol
building
5th Grade
- Focus on North America and South America
- Appreciation of cultural diversity and inclusion
- Geography, topography, and cartography (study of maps)
- Promoting global citizenship and an understanding of the global forces that take place
- Participation in Social Studies Olympiads
6th Grade
- Appreciating and understanding the past from Prehistory to the Renaissance
- European exploration and colonization
- Utilizing students’ strengths to maximize understanding
- Promoting skills in 21st century learning, innovating, and technology
- Study of the geography of each continent
- Cartography (study of maps)
- Participation in Social Studies Olympiads
7th Grade
- Age of Exploration
- American Revolution and major events and people that shaped Early America
- Introduction to the causes of the Civil War
- Supplement lessons with a variety of media to appeal to all learners
- Source historical documents to determine perspective, bias, and reliability
- Project-based learning derived from historical content
- Participation in Social Studies Olympiads
8th Grade
- American History: Civil War to present
- Supplement lessons with a variety of media (articles, videos, podcasts, music) to appeal to all learning styles
- Source historical documents to determine perspective, bias, and reliability
- Project-based learning derived from historical content
- Participation in Social Studies Olympiads
Religion
Kindergarten
- Mercy tradition and service outreach
- Catholic Identity
- Active participation in a faith community
1st Grade
- Integrated Bible stories and formal prayers
- Catholic identity
- Emphasis on God’s message of Mercy
- Active participation in a faith community
2nd Grade
- Guide sacramental preparation for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist
- Read, discuss, and reflect upon the Sunday Gospel
- Share Mercy tradition and provide service outreach opportunities
- Active participation in a faith community
3rd Grade
- Mercy tradition and outreach including visitation to Mercy Neighborhood Ministries
- Pray the rosary, Apostles’ Creed, and the Morning Offering
- History of the Church and the investigation of study of its leaders and influential members
- St. John Neumann shrine visitation and reflection
- Active participation in a faith community
4th Grade
- Mercy tradition and study of the Works of Mercy
- Learning about the Ten Commandments, Beatitudes and the Liturgical Year.
- Morning Meeting in homerooms and Mercy Connection service projects
- Active participation in a faith community
5th Grade
- Focuses on the increase capacity for reflecting on their spiritual lives
- Introduce preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation and guide growth in the sacraments
- Concentration on Catholic identity as disciples of Jesus Christ
- Active participation in a faith community
6th Grade
- Preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation
- Focus on Old Testament and connections to New Testament
- Strengthening of Catholic identity through prayer and service
- Active participation in a faith community
7th Grade
- Mercy tradition and service outreach
- Catholic identity
- Faith development as part of an active community
- Active participation in a faith community
8th Grade
- Mercy tradition, outreach and Catholic identity
- Church history as it relates to contemporary issues
- Active participation in a faith community
Public Speaking
5th Grade
- Build responsibility in communication and confidence in public speaking
- Develop active listening skills and effective interpersonal communication strategies
- Provide nurturing environment for self-expression through speaking and writing opportunities
6th Grade
- Develop students’ speech writing and presentation skills
- Build research and critical thinking strategies
- Foster effective use of language and speech delivery
- Guide students through the process of writing and presenting various forms of speeches
7th Grade
- Build impromptu and extemporaneous speaking skills
- Introduce and develop informal group discussion, open debate, and interview techniques
- Further advance speech writing and delivery skills
- Introduce acting and improvisation techniques
8th Grade
- Introduce structure and protocol for competitive debate
- Explore screenwriting and video production/advanced acting and improvisation techniques
- Discuss media literacy and its influence on our society
World Languages
Kindergarten
- Spanish and French
- Conversation reinforced through stories, games, and songs
- Speaking and audio comprehension
- Cultural appreciation
1st Grade
- Spanish and French
- Conversation reinforced through stories, games, and songs
- Speaking and audio comprehension
- Cultural appreciation
2nd Grade
- Spanish and French
- Introduction to reading and writing
- Role play conversations
- Cultural appreciation
3rd Grade
- Spanish and French conversation reinforced through stories, games and songs
- Speaking and audio comprehension as well as cultural appreciation
- Role play conversations related to each topic of study: family, animals, body parts, food, dates
4th Grade
- French and Spanish
- Emphasis on reading, writing and grammar
- Speaking and audio comprehension as well as cultural appreciation
- Role play to demonstrate listening and speaking proficiency
5th Grade
- French and Spanish
- Emphasis on reading, writing and grammar
- Speaking and audio comprehension as well as cultural appreciation
- Role play to demonstrate listening and speaking proficiency
- Discern World Language preference for middle school
6th Grade
- Either French or Spanish is elected
- Use of online text, digital program and workbook with greater concentration on conversation
- Continue emphasis on reading, writing and grammar
- Role play to demonstrate listening and speaking proficiency
- Complete projects to learn about the language and culture
7th Grade
- Continue the study of French or Spanish based on 6th grade selection
- Use of online text, digital program and workbook with greater concentration on conversation
- Continue emphasis on reading, writing and grammar
- Role play to demonstrate listening and speaking proficiency, restaurant project
- Real world application of language
8th Grade
- Continue the study of French or Spanish based on 6th grade selection
- Use of online text, digital program and workbook with greater concentration on conversation
- Continue emphasis on reading, writing and grammar
- Role play to demonstrate listening and speaking proficiency
- Student personal essays
Creative Thinking Skills/STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math)
Kindergarten, 1st Grade, 2nd Grade
- Discover - Hands-on experiments and challenges
- Makerspace exploration with building materials and circuits
- Exploring iPad technology
3rd Grade
- Discovery - hands on experiments and problem-based learning
- Makerspace exploration with building materials and circuits
- Exploring iPad technology using green screen and coding apps
4th Grade
- Project-based learning encouraging innovative thinking
- Invention Convention
- Exploring iPad technology using green screen and coding apps
- GATE (Gifted and Talented Enrichment) Program for qualifying students
5th Grade
- Defined STEM curriculum
- Student exposure to authentic challenges in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) careers
- Makerspaces and Breakout boxes
- GATE (Gifted and Talented Enrichment) Program for qualifying students
6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade
- Defined STEM curriculum
- Student exposure to authentic challenges in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) careers
- Makerspaces and Breakout boxes
- GATE (Gifted and Talented Enrichment) Program for qualifying students
Music
Kindergarten
- Self-expression and arts appreciation
- Introduction to music
- Folk dancing and body percussion
1st Grade
- Music literacy skills
- Boomwackers, tone chime & handbells
- Folk dancing
- Folk songs of other cultures
2nd Grade
- Sacrament preparation
- Xylophones and barred percussion instruments
- Folk songs of other cultures
- Improvisation and composition
- Extended enrichment opportunity includes piano lessons
3rd Grade
- Music begins with Play! Imitation, experimentation & personal expression through singing and dancing and the playing of instruments
- Arts Festival
- Extended enrichment opportunities include Junior Choir, piano lessons, and Orff Ensemble
4th Grade
- Enhance knowledge of musical elements while refining fine motor skills by learning the recorder
- Compose recorder piece and participate in Arts Festival and Band/Strings/Junior Choir program
- Play Xylophones and other barred percussion instruments
- Extended enrichment opportunities include Junior Choir, piano lessons, Orff Ensemble, band, and string ensemble
5th Grade
- Students continue to develop their knowledge of the elements of music
- Refine fine and gross motor skills through folk dance, body percussion creative
- movement and instrument instruction
- Extended enrichment opportunities include Senior Choir, piano and voice lessons, Orff Ensemble, band, and string ensemble
6th Grade
- Music literacy, improvisation and composition
- Percussion pieces and ensembles on tubano drums, as well as ukulele instruction
- Multimodal approach to refine complex concepts
- Extended enrichment opportunities include Senior Choir, piano and voice lessons, band, and string ensemble
7th Grade
- Ukulele instruction, option to participate in Senior Choir, voice lessons
- Multimodal approach is used to refine concepts in music literacy, improvisation and composition
- Participation in annual school musical
- Extended enrichment opportunities include Senior Choir, piano and voice lessons, band, string ensemble, and the school musical
8th Grade
- Ukulele instruction, option to participate in Senior Choir, voice lessons
- Multimodal approach to refine concepts in music literacy, improvisation and composition
- Participation in annual school musical as the lead cast and stage crew leaders
- Extended enrichment opportunities include Senior Choir, piano and voice lessons, band, and string ensemble
Visual Art
Kindergarten
- Learn to question, observe, describe, compare and contrast
- Inspire imagination and visualization
- Explore methods and materials
- Extended art enrichment opportunities available
1st Grade
- 2-D, 3-D projects
- Exploring the elements of art
- Introduction into the concept of Art History
- Extended art enrichment opportunities available
2nd Grade
- Cross-curricular projects related to literature and the seasons
- Relationship of art history to class projects
- Extended art enrichment opportunities available
3rd Grade
- Geometric shapes as springboard to art projects and 3D shapes and sculptures
- Utilizing artists and holidays throughout the year as inspiration
- Studying art history as it relates to grade level projects
- Extended art enrichment opportunities available
4th Grade
- Focus on Pennsylvania connections to support Social Studies curriculum
- Native American Art
- Studying art history as it relates to grade level projects
- Extended art enrichment opportunities available
5th Grade
- Increased depth in drawing and painting skills and techniques
- Experimenting with perspective and multimedia
- Studying art history as it relates to grade level projects
- Extended art enrichment opportunities available
6th Grade
- Explore two-point perspective, atmospheric perspective other ways that artists depict space
- Studying art history as it relates to grade level projects
- Extended art enrichment opportunities available
7th Grade
- Working with figures and 3D shapes
- Explore art of many cultures
- Studying art history as it relates to grade level projects
- Extended art enrichment opportunities available
8th Grade
- Continue with figurative art
- Contemporary art and abstraction
- Studying art history as it relates to grade level projects
- Extended art enrichment opportunities available
Technology
Kindergarten
- Keyboarding skills
- Interactive white boards, iPads and laptops
- Technology integration across all disciplines
- Coding introduced
- 1:1 devices in all classrooms enable applications and cross-curricular projects
1st Grade
- Keyboarding
- Word, PowerPoint
- Coding concepts
- Interactive whiteboard and document cameras
- 1:1 devices in all classrooms enable applications and cross-curricular projects
2nd Grade
- Keyboarding
- Word, PowerPoint
- Coding concepts
- Interactive whiteboard and document cameras
- 1:1 devices in all classrooms enable applications and cross-curricular projects
3rd Grade
- Google Drive , Docs, Sheets and Slides application across curriculum
- Systems thinking utilizing coding applications and keyboarding practices
- 1:1 devices in all classrooms enable applications and cross-curricular projects
4th Grade
- Expand use of Google Drive applications and Google Classroom
- Keyboarding practice and annual typing challenge
- Coding methods and use of coding to program robots
- 1:1 devices in all classrooms/explore web tools to foster study skills and cross-curricular projects
5th Grade
- Cross-curricular use of 3D design software to make 3D prints
- Coding methods and use of coding to program robots
- 1:1 devices in all classrooms/expand use of Google Drive applications and Google Classroom
6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade
- Expand use of Google suite of applications for efficient work flow between student and teacher
- Use coding and systems thinking to program robots
- 1:1 devices in all classrooms/cross-curricular use of 3D design software to make 3D prints
Library Skills
First Grade
- Recognize shelving organization systems
- Distinguish fiction from non-fiction works
- Use of PowerKids, BookFlix, and Trueflix
2nd Grade
- Recognize shelving organization systems
- Distinguish fiction from non-fiction works
- Use of PowerKids, BookFlix, and Trueflix
3rd Grade
- Learn basic elements of research and how to use digital resources
- Develop familiarity with the parts of a book and organization of a library
- Utilize graphic organizers
4th Grade
- Utilize online research and Big6 research process as well as graphic organizers
- Discussion of what plagiarism means and organizing relevant information
- Note taking in support of classroom instruction
- Extended enrichment opportunities include Reading Olympics
5th Grade
- POWERLibrary and online databases and resources
- Developing research questions and sub-questions and use Big6 research process
- Analysis of source materials and relevant information
- Extended enrichment opportunities include Reading Olympics
6th Grade
- Instruction in determining author credibility, keyword search strategies and website evaluation
- Oral/written process and visual presentation of research and resource evaluation techniques
- Extended enrichment opportunities include Reading Olympics
7th Grade
- Develop and revise research questions and implementation of The Research Cycle method
- Use of print and digital indices, self-assessment/evaluation in the research process
- Extended enrichment opportunities include Reading Olympics
8th Grade
- Search for reference and periodical articles, images, videos in electronic subscription databases
- Develop a personal system of note taking using strategies such as NoodleTools or Cornell notes
- Extended enrichment opportunities include Reading Olympics
Wellness
Kindergarten, 1st Grade, 2nd Grade
- Physical Education – personal space awareness, body management, demonstrating safety of self and others and development of locomotor and non-locomotor skills.
- Health - Understanding proper nutrition, age appropriate drug information, germs and pathogens, healthful living with an appreciation for hygiene/dental health and safety/injury prevention.
- Extended enrichment opportunities include competitive and recreational athletics as well as after-school dance
3rd Grade
- Physical Education—Personal space awareness, body management, safety, locomotor and non-locomotor skill development
- Health—Understand mental and emotional health concepts and safety/injury prevention
- Extended enrichment opportunities include competitive and recreational athletics as well as after-school dance
4th Grade, 5th Grade
- Physical Education—Individual, dual and team game activities, strength, flexibility and
- cardiovascular fitness
- Health—Analyze nutritional concepts, growth and development changes between childhood and adolescence and the nature and function of body systems
- Extended enrichment opportunities include competitive and recreational athletics as well as after-school dance
6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade
- Physical Education—Application of skills to complex patterns—Individual, dual, team and leisure activities
- Health—Identify possible lifetime health concerns, health and safety issues, factors that influence drug and alcohol use
- Extended enrichment opportunities include competitive and recreational athletics as well as after-school dance