St Joseph Catholic School



Kindergarten First Grade Second Grade Third Grade Fourth Grade Fifth Grade Sixth Grade Seventh Grade Eighth Grade	Curriculum Kindergarten Religion: Students participate in daily prayer, special designated school liturgies and service projects. Formal class lessons follow the themes in “Call to Faith”. The students learn about Christian values and Catholic traditions through integrated curriculum and example throughout the day. Math: The Math program follows the text Harcourt. The topics and skills introduced in kindergarten are sorting and classifying, recognizing and reproducing patterns, identifying numbers through 30, writing numbers 0-9 and counting orally by ones, fives and tens to 100. The students work on beginning skills for money, telling time, measurement and calendar activities. Students are introduced to graphing, addition and subtraction. Language Development/Reading Readiness: The Language and Reading programs are integrated through the use of Harcourt “Trophies”. The program includes: Phonetic awareness Letters of the alphabet and writing of those letters using D’Nealian Identifying and reviewing the sounds of letters An introduction to early reading, blending and building An introduction to current children’s authors and literature The program reinforces these skills through oral sharing, writing activities, fine motor skills, following oral direction, and pre-reading and reading groups. Science: The children are exposed to the wonders of science through hands-on activities. Scientific discovery skills are taught and supported through the Harcourt Science curriculum. Social Development: The kindergarten program helps the early primary learner lay the foundation for formal education. The program assists in their social development. Daily activities help the student: Become independent learners Complete tasks in a timely manner Share and work cooperatively with others Take care of materials used Have concern and compassion for others Make the transition from parent assisted preschools or daycares Take accountability for choices and behaviors Building these skills will assure a smooth transition into the next step of their formal education. First Grade Religion: The first grade curriculum focuses on building an understanding of God and his wonderful ways of mercy and love for us. Students practice committing to memory the prayers that are said at home: Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be, Grace (before meals), and The Morning Offering. The Silver Burdett Ginn series “Blest Are We” helps us to expand our understanding of God and His Good News. Students learn about the Church community, and how all are a part of that through baptism and participation in liturgical life. Stories are read about Jesus and about the lives of the saints. Students attend weekly Mass and practice the appropriate behavior and responses for being active members of the parish. Reading: Reading is integrated into as much of the day as possible! Children begin their day reading a Morning Message that has been written by the teacher where they have the opportunity to practice skills through an interactive model. The Harcourt “Trophies” series is used to provide an all-inclusive program of learning phonics, language arts, spelling, genre, and vocabulary. A variety of activities allow students to respond to the stories, through creative writing, artistic expression, and skill-building activities. Children are encouraged to use “kid spelling” as they acquire the knowledge of standardized spelling patterns. Weekly spelling lists and high-frequency words are taught to provide a solid foundation of reading skills. Math: The first grade math program focuses on committing to memory addition and subtraction facts to 20. This emphasis provides a basis for growth in the subsequent years. The Harcourt “First Grade” Mathematical Series for Grade 1 presents a balanced approach to learning math concepts. Patterning, geometry, simple algebra, time, money, fractions, and tens and ones are also explored. The use of math manipulative enhances the learning process. Social Studies: In first grade, the students learn about their expanding world. Students explore families, and move to an understanding of neighborhoods. They study map skills and the world around them. First grade uses Nystrom’s “Exploring Where and Why” which provides support for social studies concepts. Additionally, first graders learn about the First Thanksgiving; Christmas around the World; Martin Luther King, Jr.; and presidents. Current events are discussed when appropriate to our understanding of the world. Science: First grade uses the Harcourt Science series, which focuses on the three main branches of scientific study. In the Life Sciences, animals are explored by understanding their classifications and habitats. In the Earth Sciences, the focus is on rocks and fossils, as well as natural resources. Matter, forces, magnets and sound are the Physical Science topics explored. Learning is enhanced by the use of experiments, manipulatives, and the FOSS kits. Second Grade Religion: The second grade curriculum concentrates on preparing students for receiving the sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Eucharist. The Silver Burdett Ginn series “Blest Are We” is used. The curriculum includes prayers, such as: The Sign of the Cross, Meal Blessings, The Lord’s Prayer, Hail Mary, Glory Be, Morning Offering, Act of Contrition, Mass Responses, and Act of Spiritual Communion. Through daily Scripture reading, students learn about God’s revelation and covenant, and will be able to retell Jesus’ miracles as they relate to the Eucharist in bringing new life. They also learn about the role of the Church and the liturgical seasons, the saints, how to be followers of Christ, the presence of God’s grace, and the importance of a parish community. The second grade students also participate in weekly adoration on Thursday afternoons. Reading/Language Arts: Students use the Harcourt “Trophies” series program. This is an all inclusive program which incorporates language and reading skills. The program focuses on a variety of genres of literature. Children are introduced to vocabulary words both in and out of context. Phonics skills taught in class are reinforced in reading and spelling, insuring the children can not only spell the words but use them in daily writing. Students also have the opportunity to bring home their own copies of read aloud books each week, allowing them additional practice with phonics and oral reading skills at home. During Language Arts students learn specific grammar rules, sentence writing strategies, parts of speech, and paragraph writing. Handwriting: Students use the D’Nealian Handwriting Book by Scott, Foresman and Co. Cursive writing is introduced toward the end of the year. Math: The Math text used is the Horizons “Second Grade” Mathematics Series for Grade 2. Students learn new skills to enable them to work with numbers in a “hands-on” manner. Students will demonstrate basic math knowledge using various manipulatives. This program encourages students to not only get the right answer but to be able to explain HOW they got their answers. Students learn how to add and subtract double-digit numbers, with and without regrouping. They also explore geometry and measurement, money and time, data and graphing, and basic fractions. Students are also introduced to the concepts of division and multiplication. Social Studies: In second grade, students learn about neighborhoods and communities. The Harcourt textbook “About My Community” for second grade is used. Students learn simple map and directional skills, graph skills, how the government works, as well as various community names. Classroom time is spent on the study of historical developments of events in both world and American history. Additionally, students learn to follow current events. Science: The Harcourt Science Program is used in second grade. In Life Science Unit, students study how living things grow and change within their environments. The Earth Science Unit involves studying space and weather. The Physical Science Unit includes observing and measuring matter, along with exploring the changes in matter. Experiments from the Foss Hands-on Science kits supplement the program. Third Grade Religion: The third grade curriculum focuses on learning how to relate to our faith by seeing, celebrating, and living as Catholics. We use the Silver Burdett Ginn series, “Blest Are We”. This curriculum teaches the following unit themes: the Church is one; the Church is holy; the Church is Catholic; the Church is apostolic; and, the Church has a mission to the world. Students participate in daily Religion class and prayer, as well as weekly school liturgies. Focus is put on learning the Jesus Prayer, The Apostles Creed, and the Memorare, and reviewing the prayers learned in the previous grades. Math: Students use the Harcourt Math series program. Students learn mathematical concepts by direct instruction, hands-on experiences, and step-by-step models that build conceptual understanding. They also practice these concepts by using problem solving skills and strategies. This curriculum teaches students to understand numbers and operations, money, time, multiplication and division concepts, facts, data graphing, probability, geometry, measurement, fractions, and decimals. Language Arts/Reading: The Harcourt “Trophies” series program is used for third grade. The instruction presented in this program is based on recent research done in the area of language arts. Each week, students read a selection that emphasizes vocabulary development, silent or oral reading, and a response to the literature through comprehension checks and skill growth. Phonics is directly connected with reading, spelling, and writing through letter and sound relationships, and general rules in spoken language. Spelling consists of weekly units of study based on phonetic elements present in the work list. Handwriting is practiced consistently, with attention given to the cursive alphabet. Students use the “Step Up to Writing” program to learn narrative and expository writing. This writing is done using the “Five-Step Writing Process:” prewriting; drafting; revising; editing; and publishing. Social Studies: Students use the Harcourt “Horizons, People and Communities” textbook, including supplemental worksheets. They study relationships with communities, citizenship, government, cultural geography, communities over time, and people working in a community. Students learn about problem solving, time lines, graphs, and maps. Science: Through each of the science units, time is spent questioning, modeling, problem solving, designing and conducting investigations, and explaining. Main units of study are: plants and animals; the interaction of plants and animals; earth’s land; cycles on Earth and in space; investigating matter; and, exploring energy and forces. Students raise salmon from eggs, follow the life cycle, and eventually release them to the wild. Fourth Grade Religion: In fourth grade, there is an emphasis on Catholic values, building a relationship with God and being responsible stewards of His creation. The life of Mary, the saints and the Rosary are studied as deepening our love for the teachings of Christ. Students study the Beatitudes, the Ten Commandments, the sacraments, and prayer (focusing on the Nicene Creed and the Prayer for Peace). Students join in daily prayer, prepare liturgical celebrations, participate in school Masses, and contribute to ongoing service projects. Class materials include the “Blest Are We” text and the Bible. Math: The math program offers students continued conceptual development and application of skills. The Harcourt textbook serves as the primary tool. By the end of fourth grade, students understand large numbers, addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of whole numbers. The students also work with fractions and decimals. Reading: The reading program emphasizes “reading to learn” as opposed to the earlier grades “learning to read.” Students learn to pull information from the texts they are reading, whether poetry, nonfiction, or fiction. Concentrated studies of short stories and novels help students become accomplished literature lovers. Students work to develop a vocabulary through structural analysis and key word learning. Students take a greater responsibility in their roles as proficient readers. The Harcourt “Trophies” series and supplements serve as the primary tools. Language Arts: Students study grammar and the mechanics of good writing to help them become skilled writers. They practice capitalization, punctuation, usage rules, and the parts of speech. Opportunities to write and gain experience with various writing modes - imaginative, descriptive, narrative, expository, and persuasive - are given. Students use the writing process to plan, develop, and improve their writing. A spelling workbook and weekly tests help students develop their spelling skills. Social Studies: The fourth grade Social Studies program concentrates on the Pacific Northwest, with a strong emphasis on the study of Washington State. Students hone map skills and general geography to assist them in their understanding of Washington. They study the history of our region, including early explorers, Native Americans, and the Oregon Trail. An in-depth unit on state facts and symbols, as well as a basic understanding of the legislative process, is culminated with a field trip to the State Capitol in Olympia. Science: Science provides opportunities to learn about the earth, life, and environmental sciences along with related hands-on investigation and experiments. Students learn broad concepts and accompanying vocabulary. They practice study skills and test preparation. Students also participate in a swimming lesson unit that includes instruction on life saving techniques. Fifth Grade Religion: In fifth grade, students explore the depth of the seven sacraments and use the “Blest Are We” series. They participate in daily prayer and specifically learn the Joyful Mysteries, the Prayer for Souls in Purgatory, and Queen of Heaven. Students study the parts of the Mass to gain a better understanding of their meanings. As students take more responsibility for their actions, they participate in the “Steps to Respect”, a bullying prevention program. To build self-esteem, the class spends time on the “Second Steps” program. Math: Students perform the basic math operations with numbers, fractions and decimals using The Harcourt Series. In addition they are introduced to algebra, geometry, measurements, graphs, ratios, percents and problem solving. Students learn strategies to understand and solve real-world math problems. Students use Math manipulatives and work cooperatively as well as independently. Language Arts/Reading: Using the “Six Traits of Writing” and “Step Up to Writing,” students continue to develop their writing skills. Students learn the parts of speech and the development of sentences and paragraphs with these writing techniques. The class continues to concentrate on the use of grammar and punctuation. Developing an appreciation for literature is a focus in fifth grade through the use of The Harcourt “Trophies” series. This is also taught through novel studies, literature circles and monthly book reports. Students continue to develop their vocabulary and reading comprehension skills through literature and the “Wordly Wise” Program. Critical and analytical thinking are used to analyze an author’s use of language and perspective. Social Studies: Using Harcourt “Horizon”, the social studies program focuses on exploration and colonization of the United States. Students work on research reports, learn about maps, states and capitals, and learn to develop graphs and tables. In addition, students focus on note-taking skills. Science: Students learn and use the Scientific Method of Investigation through our Harcourt Science Series. They explore and gain knowledge about living systems, processes that change the earth, the solar system, building blocks of matter, energy and motion. Investigation and experiments are used to give students hands-on experience in science. “United Streaming” multi-media is used to enhance student learning and note taking skills. Sixth Grade Religion: Sixth grade is a year when students take a more active role in their faith. They are taught about the Old Testament, Exodus, Creation, the prophets, the New Testament, the Gospels, and the Acts of the Apostles. Students spend time studying the Bible. An understanding of Liturgical seasons, saints, and the Holy Spirit are taught. Students join in daily prayer and examine living their faith by attitudes. Sixth graders must meet community service hour requirements. In addition, students spend time in the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament every Thursday and participate in school Masses. Math: The Math program emphasizes an understanding and application of Math concepts. Opportunities for reading, writing and speaking mathmatically are provided. Areas of study include whole number operations, measurement, geometric sense, problem solving, mathematical reasoning, exponents, patterns & variable integers, probability, and properties of real numbers. Students experience application for math in real-life situations. Literature: The need for working on comprehension and critical thinking skills continues to be important in sixth grade. The appreciation of literature grows as students complete a novel project once per trimester. A variety of genres are studied including short stories, folk tales, myths, poetry, non-fiction, and drama. Students learn to investigate literary terms and techniques. Students participate in independent, small group, and whole group literary activities. Experiencing a novel within a well-organized student led literature circle is one of the highlights of 6th grade literature. Language Arts: The Language Arts program explores the writing process and different purposes for writing. Paragraph structure is emphasized in composition as well as specific instruction on grammar, usage, and mechanics. Sixth graders continue to improve building vocabulary skills. The program supports students as they develop community, study skills and organizational skills. Social Studies: Discovering the world and its people is the focus in sixth grade. Students research the culture, geography, history and language of many countries. They focus on ancient civilizations. The skills of extracting and organizing important ideas from informational text are reinforced and practiced. Students also learn to research, classify and report information. Science: In sixth grade, students explore the scientific process skills and apply their skills using the scientific method to create an experiment for a science fair. Areas of study include classifying plants and animals, life cycles, water properties, light, electricity, energy, elements and compounds. Note-taking skills and project based activities are emphasized. The highlight of sixth grade science is spending a week at Outdoor School. Seventh Grade Religion: In seventh grade, time is spent exploring the Gospels and on understanding the person and teachings of Jesus. Students continue to deepen their understanding of the sacraments and prayers. Time is provided for self reflection on choices made, responsibilities taken and services provided to others. School masses, Eucharistic Adoration and Stations of the Cross help bring the students closer to Jesus. Math: The seventh and eighth grade Math program concentrates on attaining a solid mathematical foundation that will prepare students for the transition into high school. Emphasis is placed on understanding and applying math concepts, and reading, writing and speaking mathematically. Areas of study include equations and inequalities, ratios, proportions, percents, geometry, algebraic problem solving, data analysis and application to real-life situations. English: Students are given solid foundation so that they may be successful in any high school they choose to attend. To provide this foundation, all of the following are emphasized throughout the 7th and 8th grades: grammar, parts of speech, vocabulary building, creative writing, and research papers. An emphasis is placed on public speaking , speech writing and expository writing in the 7th grade. Literature: Seventh grade literature is an in-depth study of novel books. During the course of the year, we study many novels through Literature Circle Discussions, independent reading, read aloud, and whole class book discussions. We also spend time focusing on comprehension of the material, fluency of language, and reaction to the selections in a variety of ways. A portion of the class is placed on using the class’s knowledge of the parts of a novel to construct a children’s book. Poetry writing and analysis is also discussed. Social Studies - Geography: The course covers the geography of the world through the five geographical themes of Location, Place, Human/Environment Interaction, Movement and Region. Emphasis is placed on: using and constructing maps, charts and other resources; recognizing special patterns on the Earth’s surface and understanding the processes that create these patterns; describing the natural characteristics of places and regions and explaining the causes of their characteristics; describing the effects humans have on places and regions; and identifying characteristics that define the Pacific Northwest and the Pacific Rim as regions. Students learn to identify and examine people’s interactions with and impact on the environment, analyze how the environment affects people and examine cultural characteristics, diffusion and interaction. Extensive use of all types of maps is stressed. Course work consists of lectures, discussions, investigation, research, presentations, case studies and debates. Science: In seventh and eighth grade science, students learn the basic scientific principles such as the scientific method, questioning, explaining and communicating using technical vocabulary, problem solving and hands-on work. Students apply these basic principles through their study of life science, physical science and earth sciences. The seventh grade year focuses on Life and Earth Science. The students explore the cell, then build on the basic structure of life to discover the plant and animal worlds. The students also participate in an extensive earth/space unit which culminates in a simulated trip to the moon through NASA. Eighth Grade Religion: The course covers learning about our faith through examination of the Church history and theology, morality and social teaching; living our faith by reflecting on our attitudes and the sacraments; and prayer life through reviewing many of the fundamental prayers of Catholicism and learning the Prayer of St. Francis. Students are taught through lectures, discussions, investigation, research, presentations, field trips, analyzing current public policy, examining their own prayer life, service projects and school Masses. Math: The seventh and eighth grade Math program focuses on the students attaining a solid mathematical foundation that will prepare them for the transition into high school. Emphasis is placed on understanding and applying math concepts, and reading, writing and speaking mathematically. Areas of study include equations and inequalities, ratios, proportions, percents, geometry, algebraic problem solving, data analysis and application to real-life situations. English: Our program is designed to give students a solid foundation so that they may be successful in any high school they choose to attend. To provide this foundation, all of the following are emphasized throughout the 7th and 8th grades: grammar, parts of speech, vocabulary building, creative writing, and research papers. An emphasis is placed on technical writing and journalism in the 8th grade. Literature: The eighth grade Literature program is designed to provide our students with a working understanding of literary terms and how to respond in writing and orally to the written word. Short stories are used early in the year to help students refine their writing style and learn how to offer informed opinions of the author’s work. Then various novels, both fiction and non-fiction, are used to expand on these skills. Classes are dominated by discussions and the free exchange of opinions. Social Studies - U.S. History: The course covers the history of the United States from the emergence of modern America to contemporary times. Emphasis is placed upon understanding historical time, events and causation; analyzing the historical development of events, people, places and patterns of life in the U.S., World, and WA State History; and examining the influence of culture on U.S. history. Students learn to analyze historical information and synthesize and reflect on findings. Course work consists of lectures, debates, discussions, presentations, extensive homework, writing essays, viewing movies and videos, investigation, research and writing. Geographical understanding is important, as is the use of maps and timelines. Science: In seventh and eighth grade science, students learn the basic scientific principles such as: the scientific method, questioning, explaining and communicating, using technical vocabulary, problem solving and hands-on work. Students apply these basic principles through their study of life science, physical science and earth sciences. The eighth grade year focuses on Physical Science, discovering the physical world around them. They study a wide range of topics, including energy and motion, electricity and magnetism, waves, properties of matter, and chemical interactions. The focus in eighth grade is to be able to explain, in scientific and lay terminology, what we learn.
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Kindergarten

First Grade

Second Grade

Third Grade

Fourth Grade

Fifth Grade

Sixth Grade

Seventh Grade

Eighth Grade

Curriculum

Kindergarten

Religion: Students participate in daily prayer, special designated school liturgies and service projects. Formal class lessons follow the themes in “Call to Faith”. The students learn about Christian values and Catholic traditions through integrated curriculum and example throughout the day.

Math: The Math program follows the text Harcourt. The topics and skills introduced in kindergarten are sorting and classifying, recognizing and reproducing patterns, identifying numbers through 30, writing numbers 0-9 and counting orally by ones, fives and tens to 100. The students work on beginning skills for money, telling time, measurement and calendar activities. Students are introduced to graphing, addition and subtraction.

Language Development/Reading Readiness: The Language and Reading programs are integrated through the use of Harcourt “Trophies”. The program includes:

Phonetic awareness
Letters of the alphabet and writing of those letters using D’Nealian
Identifying and reviewing the sounds of letters
An introduction to early reading, blending and building
An introduction to current children’s authors and literature

The program reinforces these skills through oral sharing, writing activities, fine motor skills, following oral direction, and pre-reading and reading groups.

Science: The children are exposed to the wonders of science through hands-on activities. Scientific discovery skills are taught and supported through the Harcourt Science curriculum.

Social Development: The kindergarten program helps the early primary learner lay the foundation for formal education. The program assists in their social development. Daily activities help the student:

Become independent learners
Complete tasks in a timely manner
Share and work cooperatively with others
Take care of materials used
Have concern and compassion for others
Make the transition from parent assisted preschools or daycares
Take accountability for choices and behaviors

Building these skills will assure a smooth transition into the next step of their formal education.

First Grade

Religion: The first grade curriculum focuses on building an understanding of God and his wonderful ways of mercy and love for us. Students practice committing to memory the prayers that are said at home: Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be, Grace (before meals), and The Morning Offering. The Silver Burdett Ginn series “Blest Are We” helps us to expand our understanding of God and His Good News. Students learn about the Church community, and how all are a part of that through baptism and participation in liturgical life. Stories are read about Jesus and about the lives of the saints. Students attend weekly Mass and practice the appropriate behavior and responses for being active members of the parish.

Reading: Reading is integrated into as much of the day as possible! Children begin their day reading a Morning Message that has been written by the teacher where they have the opportunity to practice skills through an interactive model. The Harcourt “Trophies” series is used to provide an all-inclusive program of learning phonics, language arts, spelling, genre, and vocabulary. A variety of activities allow students to respond to the stories, through creative writing, artistic expression, and skill-building activities. Children are encouraged to use “kid spelling” as they acquire the knowledge of standardized spelling patterns. Weekly spelling lists and high-frequency words are taught to provide a solid foundation of reading skills.

Math: The first grade math program focuses on committing to memory addition and subtraction facts to 20. This emphasis provides a basis for growth in the subsequent years. The Harcourt “First Grade” Mathematical Series for Grade 1 presents a balanced approach to learning math concepts. Patterning, geometry, simple algebra, time, money, fractions, and tens and ones are also explored. The use of math manipulative enhances the learning process.

Social Studies: In first grade, the students learn about their expanding world. Students explore families, and move to an understanding of neighborhoods. They study map skills and the world around them. First grade uses Nystrom’s “Exploring Where and Why” which provides support for social studies concepts. Additionally, first graders learn about the First Thanksgiving; Christmas around the World; Martin Luther King, Jr.; and presidents. Current events are discussed when appropriate to our understanding of the world.

Science: First grade uses the Harcourt Science series, which focuses on the three main branches of scientific study. In the Life Sciences, animals are explored by understanding their classifications and habitats. In the Earth Sciences, the focus is on rocks and fossils, as well as natural resources. Matter, forces, magnets and sound are the Physical Science topics explored. Learning is enhanced by the use of experiments, manipulatives, and the FOSS kits.

Second Grade

Religion: The second grade curriculum concentrates on preparing students for receiving the sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Eucharist. The Silver Burdett Ginn series “Blest Are We” is used. The curriculum includes prayers, such as: The Sign of the Cross, Meal Blessings, The Lord’s Prayer, Hail Mary, Glory Be, Morning Offering, Act of Contrition, Mass Responses, and Act of Spiritual Communion. Through daily Scripture reading, students learn about God’s revelation and covenant, and will be able to retell Jesus’ miracles as they relate to the Eucharist in bringing new life. They also learn about the role of the Church and the liturgical seasons, the saints, how to be followers of Christ, the presence of God’s grace, and the importance of a parish community. The second grade students also participate in weekly adoration on Thursday afternoons.

Reading/Language Arts: Students use the Harcourt “Trophies” series program. This is an all inclusive program which incorporates language and reading skills. The program focuses on a variety of genres of literature. Children are introduced to vocabulary words both in and out of context. Phonics skills taught in class are reinforced in reading and spelling, insuring the children can not only spell the words but use them in daily writing. Students also have the opportunity to bring home their own copies of read aloud books each week, allowing them additional practice with phonics and oral reading skills at home. During Language Arts students learn specific grammar rules, sentence writing strategies, parts of speech, and paragraph writing.

Handwriting: Students use the D’Nealian Handwriting Book by Scott, Foresman and Co. Cursive writing is introduced toward the end of the year.

Math: The Math text used is the Horizons “Second Grade” Mathematics Series for Grade 2. Students learn new skills to enable them to work with numbers in a “hands-on” manner. Students will demonstrate basic math knowledge using various manipulatives. This program encourages students to not only get the right answer but to be able to explain HOW they got their answers. Students learn how to add and subtract double-digit numbers, with and without regrouping. They also explore geometry and measurement, money and time, data and graphing, and basic fractions. Students are also introduced to the concepts of division and multiplication.

Social Studies: In second grade, students learn about neighborhoods and communities. The Harcourt textbook “About My Community” for second grade is used. Students learn simple map and directional skills, graph skills, how the government works, as well as various community names. Classroom time is spent on the study of historical developments of events in both world and American history. Additionally, students learn to follow current events.

Science: The Harcourt Science Program is used in second grade. In Life Science Unit, students study how living things grow and change within their environments. The Earth Science Unit involves studying space and weather. The Physical Science Unit includes observing and measuring matter, along with exploring the changes in matter. Experiments from the Foss Hands-on Science kits supplement the program.

Third Grade

Religion: The third grade curriculum focuses on learning how to relate to our faith by seeing, celebrating, and living as Catholics. We use the Silver Burdett Ginn series, “Blest Are We”. This curriculum teaches the following unit themes: the Church is one; the Church is holy; the Church is Catholic; the Church is apostolic; and, the Church has a mission to the world. Students participate in daily Religion class and prayer, as well as weekly school liturgies. Focus is put on learning the Jesus Prayer, The Apostles Creed, and the Memorare, and reviewing the prayers learned in the previous grades.

Math: Students use the Harcourt Math series program. Students learn mathematical concepts by direct instruction, hands-on experiences, and step-by-step models that build conceptual understanding. They also practice these concepts by using problem solving skills and strategies. This curriculum teaches students to understand numbers and operations, money, time, multiplication and division concepts, facts, data graphing, probability, geometry, measurement, fractions, and decimals.

Language Arts/Reading: The Harcourt “Trophies” series program is used for third grade. The instruction presented in this program is based on recent research done in the area of language arts. Each week, students read a selection that emphasizes vocabulary development, silent or oral reading, and a response to the literature through comprehension checks and skill growth. Phonics is directly connected with reading, spelling, and writing through letter and sound relationships, and general rules in spoken language. Spelling consists of weekly units of study based on phonetic elements present in the work list. Handwriting is practiced consistently, with attention given to the cursive alphabet. Students use the “Step Up to Writing” program to learn narrative and expository writing. This writing is done using the “Five-Step Writing Process:” prewriting; drafting; revising; editing; and publishing.

Social Studies: Students use the Harcourt “Horizons, People and Communities” textbook, including supplemental worksheets. They study relationships with communities, citizenship, government, cultural geography, communities over time, and people working in a community. Students learn about problem solving, time lines, graphs, and maps.

Science: Through each of the science units, time is spent questioning, modeling, problem solving, designing and conducting investigations, and explaining. Main units of study are: plants and animals; the interaction of plants and animals; earth’s land; cycles on Earth and in space; investigating matter; and, exploring energy and forces. Students raise salmon from eggs, follow the life cycle, and eventually release them to the wild.

Fourth Grade

Religion: In fourth grade, there is an emphasis on Catholic values, building a relationship with God and being responsible stewards of His creation. The life of Mary, the saints and the Rosary are studied as deepening our love for the teachings of Christ. Students study the Beatitudes, the Ten Commandments, the sacraments, and prayer (focusing on the Nicene Creed and the Prayer for Peace). Students join in daily prayer, prepare liturgical celebrations, participate in school Masses, and contribute to ongoing service projects. Class materials include the “Blest Are We” text and the Bible.

Math: The math program offers students continued conceptual development and application of skills. The Harcourt textbook serves as the primary tool. By the end of fourth grade, students understand large numbers, addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of whole numbers. The students also work with fractions and decimals.

Reading: The reading program emphasizes “reading to learn” as opposed to the earlier grades “learning to read.” Students learn to pull information from the texts they are reading, whether poetry, nonfiction, or fiction. Concentrated studies of short stories and novels help students become accomplished literature lovers. Students work to develop a vocabulary through structural analysis and key word learning. Students take a greater responsibility in their roles as proficient readers. The Harcourt “Trophies” series and supplements serve as the primary tools.

Language Arts: Students study grammar and the mechanics of good writing to help them become skilled writers. They practice capitalization, punctuation, usage rules, and the parts of speech. Opportunities to write and gain experience with various writing modes - imaginative, descriptive, narrative, expository, and persuasive - are given. Students use the writing process to plan, develop, and improve their writing. A spelling workbook and weekly tests help students develop their spelling skills.

Social Studies: The fourth grade Social Studies program concentrates on the Pacific Northwest, with a strong emphasis on the study of Washington State. Students hone map skills and general geography to assist them in their understanding of Washington. They study the history of our region, including early explorers, Native Americans, and the Oregon Trail. An in-depth unit on state facts and symbols, as well as a basic understanding of the legislative process, is culminated with a field trip to the State Capitol in Olympia.

Science: Science provides opportunities to learn about the earth, life, and environmental sciences along with related hands-on investigation and experiments. Students learn broad concepts and accompanying vocabulary. They practice study skills and test preparation. Students also participate in a swimming lesson unit that includes instruction on life saving techniques.

Fifth Grade

Religion: In fifth grade, students explore the depth of the seven sacraments and use the “Blest Are We” series. They participate in daily prayer and specifically learn the Joyful Mysteries, the Prayer for Souls in Purgatory, and Queen of Heaven. Students study the parts of the Mass to gain a better understanding of their meanings. As students take more responsibility for their actions, they participate in the “Steps to Respect”, a bullying prevention program. To build self-esteem, the class spends time on the “Second Steps” program.

Math: Students perform the basic math operations with numbers, fractions and decimals using The Harcourt Series. In addition they are introduced to algebra, geometry, measurements, graphs, ratios, percents and problem solving. Students learn strategies to understand and solve real-world math problems. Students use Math manipulatives and work cooperatively as well as independently.

Language Arts/Reading: Using the “Six Traits of Writing” and “Step Up to Writing,” students continue to develop their writing skills. Students learn the parts of speech and the development of sentences and paragraphs with these writing techniques. The class continues to concentrate on the use of grammar and punctuation. Developing an appreciation for literature is a focus in fifth grade through the use of The Harcourt “Trophies” series. This is also taught through novel studies, literature circles and monthly book reports. Students continue to develop their vocabulary and reading comprehension skills through literature and the “Wordly Wise” Program. Critical and analytical thinking are used to analyze an author’s use of language and perspective.

Social Studies: Using Harcourt “Horizon”, the social studies program focuses on exploration and colonization of the United States. Students work on research reports, learn about maps, states and capitals, and learn to develop graphs and tables. In addition, students focus on note-taking skills.

Science: Students learn and use the Scientific Method of Investigation through our Harcourt Science Series. They explore and gain knowledge about living systems, processes that change the earth, the solar system, building blocks of matter, energy and motion. Investigation and experiments are used to give students hands-on experience in science. “United Streaming” multi-media is used to enhance student learning and note taking skills.

Sixth Grade

Religion: Sixth grade is a year when students take a more active role in their faith. They are taught about the Old Testament, Exodus, Creation, the prophets, the New Testament, the Gospels, and the Acts of the Apostles. Students spend time studying the Bible. An understanding of Liturgical seasons, saints, and the Holy Spirit are taught. Students join in daily prayer and examine living their faith by attitudes. Sixth graders must meet community service hour requirements. In addition, students spend time in the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament every Thursday and participate in school Masses.

Math: The Math program emphasizes an understanding and application of Math concepts. Opportunities for reading, writing and speaking mathmatically are provided. Areas of study include whole number operations, measurement, geometric sense, problem solving, mathematical reasoning, exponents, patterns & variable integers, probability, and properties of real numbers. Students experience application for math in real-life situations.

Literature: The need for working on comprehension and critical thinking skills continues to be important in sixth grade. The appreciation of literature grows as students complete a novel project once per trimester. A variety of genres are studied including short stories, folk tales, myths, poetry, non-fiction, and drama. Students learn to investigate literary terms and techniques. Students participate in independent, small group, and whole group literary activities. Experiencing a novel within a well-organized student led literature circle is one of the highlights of 6th grade literature.

Language Arts: The Language Arts program explores the writing process and different purposes for writing. Paragraph structure is emphasized in composition as well as specific instruction on grammar, usage, and mechanics. Sixth graders continue to improve building vocabulary skills. The program supports students as they develop community, study skills and organizational skills.

Social Studies: Discovering the world and its people is the focus in sixth grade. Students research the culture, geography, history and language of many countries. They focus on ancient civilizations. The skills of extracting and organizing important ideas from informational text are reinforced and practiced. Students also learn to research, classify and report information.

Science: In sixth grade, students explore the scientific process skills and apply their skills using the scientific method to create an experiment for a science fair. Areas of study include classifying plants and animals, life cycles, water properties, light, electricity, energy, elements and compounds. Note-taking skills and project based activities are emphasized. The highlight of sixth grade science is spending a week at Outdoor School.

Seventh Grade

Religion: In seventh grade, time is spent exploring the Gospels and on understanding the person and teachings of Jesus. Students continue to deepen their understanding of the sacraments and prayers. Time is provided for self reflection on choices made, responsibilities taken and services provided to others. School masses, Eucharistic Adoration and Stations of the Cross help bring the students closer to Jesus.

Math: The seventh and eighth grade Math program concentrates on attaining a solid mathematical foundation that will prepare students for the transition into high school. Emphasis is placed on understanding and applying math concepts, and reading, writing and speaking mathematically. Areas of study include equations and inequalities, ratios, proportions, percents, geometry, algebraic problem solving, data analysis and application to real-life situations.

English: Students are given solid foundation so that they may be successful in any high school they choose to attend. To provide this foundation, all of the following are emphasized throughout the 7th and 8th grades: grammar, parts of speech, vocabulary building, creative writing, and research papers. An emphasis is placed on public speaking , speech writing and expository writing in the 7th grade.

Literature: Seventh grade literature is an in-depth study of novel books. During the course of the year, we study many novels through Literature Circle Discussions, independent reading, read aloud, and whole class book discussions. We also spend time focusing on comprehension of the material, fluency of language, and reaction to the selections in a variety of ways. A portion of the class is placed on using the class’s knowledge of the parts of a novel to construct a children’s book. Poetry writing and analysis is also discussed.

Social Studies - Geography: The course covers the geography of the world through the five geographical themes of Location, Place, Human/Environment Interaction, Movement and Region. Emphasis is placed on: using and constructing maps, charts and other resources; recognizing special patterns on the Earth’s surface and understanding the processes that create these patterns; describing the natural characteristics of places and regions and explaining the causes of their characteristics; describing the effects humans have on places and regions; and identifying characteristics that define the Pacific Northwest and the Pacific Rim as regions. Students learn to identify and examine people’s interactions with and impact on the environment, analyze how the environment affects people and examine cultural characteristics, diffusion and interaction. Extensive use of all types of maps is stressed. Course work consists of lectures, discussions, investigation, research, presentations, case studies and debates.

Science: In seventh and eighth grade science, students learn the basic scientific principles such as the scientific method, questioning, explaining and communicating using technical vocabulary, problem solving and hands-on work. Students apply these basic principles through their study of life science, physical science and earth sciences. The seventh grade year focuses on Life and Earth Science. The students explore the cell, then build on the basic structure of life to discover the plant and animal worlds. The students also participate in an extensive earth/space unit which culminates in a simulated trip to the moon through NASA.

Eighth Grade

Religion: The course covers learning about our faith through examination of the Church history and theology, morality and social teaching; living our faith by reflecting on our attitudes and the sacraments; and prayer life through reviewing many of the fundamental prayers of Catholicism and learning the Prayer of St. Francis. Students are taught through lectures, discussions, investigation, research, presentations, field trips, analyzing current public policy, examining their own prayer life, service projects and school Masses.

Math: The seventh and eighth grade Math program focuses on the students attaining a solid mathematical foundation that will prepare them for the transition into high school. Emphasis is placed on understanding and applying math concepts, and reading, writing and speaking mathematically. Areas of study include equations and inequalities, ratios, proportions, percents, geometry, algebraic problem solving, data analysis and application to real-life situations.

English: Our program is designed to give students a solid foundation so that they may be successful in any high school they choose to attend. To provide this foundation, all of the following are emphasized throughout the 7th and 8th grades: grammar, parts of speech, vocabulary building, creative writing, and research papers. An emphasis is placed on technical writing and journalism in the 8th grade.

Literature: The eighth grade Literature program is designed to provide our students with a working understanding of literary terms and how to respond in writing and orally to the written word. Short stories are used early in the year to help students refine their writing style and learn how to offer informed opinions of the author’s work. Then various novels, both fiction and non-fiction, are used to expand on these skills. Classes are dominated by discussions and the free exchange of opinions.

Social Studies - U.S. History: The course covers the history of the United States from the emergence of modern America to contemporary times. Emphasis is placed upon understanding historical time, events and causation; analyzing the historical development of events, people, places and patterns of life in the U.S., World, and WA State History; and examining the influence of culture on U.S. history. Students learn to analyze historical information and synthesize and reflect on findings. Course work consists of lectures, debates, discussions, presentations, extensive homework, writing essays, viewing movies and videos, investigation, research and writing. Geographical understanding is important, as is the use of maps and timelines.

Science: In seventh and eighth grade science, students learn the basic scientific principles such as: the scientific method, questioning, explaining and communicating, using technical vocabulary, problem solving and hands-on work. Students apply these basic principles through their study of life science, physical science and earth sciences. The eighth grade year focuses on Physical Science, discovering the physical world around them. They study a wide range of topics, including energy and motion, electricity and magnetism, waves, properties of matter, and chemical interactions. The focus in eighth grade is to be able to explain, in scientific and lay terminology, what we learn.