Religion

We Believe consistently integrates content that is faithful to the teachings of the Catholic Church and that holistically embraces the four pillars of the Catechism of the Catholic Church:  Creed, Liturgy and Sacraments, Moral Life and Prayer.  We also learn about the seasonal events of the church (i.e. rosary, Christmas, Lent, Stations of the Cross, Holy Week Events, Easter).


Reading

It is literature based with a phonics component.  The strategies taught are predict/infer, question, monitor/clarify, summarize and evaluate.  The goal is to build healthy self-esteem in each child.


Spelling

Our spelling curriculum is developed in conjunction with the reading program.  Weekly tests begin after Christmas vacation.


English

Writing is an integral part of our reading program.  In the beginning, "inventive" spelling is encouraged.  As the year progresses, more emphasis is placed on content, correct spelling, capitalization, punctuation and grammar.


Phonics

Using the alphabet, the children learn the sounds for the different letters, thus enabling them to be able to read words and sentences. 


Penmanship

Correct letter formation and neatness are encouraged.  Though children develop motor skills differently, doing one's best is expected.


Math

Through using a math text, manipulatives, chapter challenges and literature, First Graders learn the addition and subtraction facts with sums to 18, learn basic algebra, geometry and measurement skills, learn to add and subtract without regrouping, discuss probability and work with problem solving strategies.


Science

The following inquiry skills are taught in conjunction with Earth Science, Life Science and Physical Science:  Observe, Infer, Classify, Measure, Communicate, Predict and Experiment.


Social Studies

The children work with four life-long skills in Social Studies:  Geography (simple maps), Economics (saving money, deciding what to buy), Citizenship and History.