Middle School Curriculum (Grades 6-8)
As students make the transition from fifth grade into the middle school, spiritual formation, academic expectations, and personal growth are heightened to form independent learners and mature young adults.
Ø Our religion program offers many religious opportunities to our students, so as to form strong spiritual bonds. In sixth grade, the curriculum focuses on the liturgical season and the Jewish roots of the Catholic religion. Seventh grade students study the life of Jesus, the New Testament, and the sacraments, while the eighth grade students focus on church history, the mystery of God, and morality.
Ø The mathematics’ program involves critical thinking and problem-solving skills. General math is taught in the sixth grade, while seventh and eighth grade students study pre-algebra and Algebra I. Middle school students are involved in the First in Math program, Try-Math-A-Lot, The American Junior High Mathematics Contest, and a local Algebra I contest.
Ø Science classes focus on the study of physical, life, and earth science. All middle school students avail themselves of the science lab each week, where they learn through experimentation and hands-on activities. The program includes involvement with the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science, the Pittsburgh Regional Science and Engineering Fair, and the Science Wise program through St. Vincent College.
Ø The language arts’ program emphasizes basic grammar skills needed for composition and speech. Students are taught to write in various styles, including expository, descriptive, and narrative. Students in grades seven and eight write a complete research paper. In literature, students explore the various fiction and nonfiction genres, as well as poetry. Emphasis is on critical thinking and analysis of pieces read.
Ø Social studies classes include the teaching of world cultures and American history. Middle school students also study the global economy by participating in the Junior Achievement program.
Ø Technology is integrated throughout the curriculum. Each middle school student is given a netbook computer for use in their daily studies both in school and at home. Word processing, Power Point presentations, SMART Board applications, Publisher, and Excel programs play a vital role in preparing middle school students for life in the 21st Century.
Students in the middle school learn to refine proficiency in the areas of responsibility, communication, time management, study skills, and resistance to negative peer pressure. These young adults are prepared to continue and excel in high school and in their future.