Student Learning Expectations
and Curriculum

People of faith who: Demonstrate a compassionate, respectful, and tolerant attitude toward all God's creation. Display a developing knowledge of sacred scripture and Church teaching and practices. Exhibit Christian behavior through service. Actively participate in communal liturgical services.

Effective communicators who: Read with understanding Exhibit competence in oral and written expression. Listen and respond with understanding. Utilize technology appropriately. Can present concepts to groups.

Complex and independent thinkers who: Adapt learned knowledge to real life experiences and problems. Analyze and apply new information. Can envision alternative ideas and solutions.

Problem Solvers who: Are competent in basic computation. Can apply math skills to real life situations. Observe, experiment, discover, and reach solutions.

Responsible citizens who: Take responsibility for their actions. Demonstrate respect for themselves and others. Make choices that reflect knowledge of health and environmental issues. Identify leadership characteristics within themselves.

 

Life-long learners who: Possess skills that allow them to learn, work, play, and interact successfully, both individually and cooperatively. Are developing their physical potential and skills through a variety of physical activities. Discover and develop their talents and preferences in the fine arts. Can adapt readily to change.

Religion The goal of our religion program is to impart the message that God loves us. Through this knowledge students can build a personal relationship with God, responding to His love with a maturing faith and deepening commitment. Students receive formal instruction in religion every day. The entire school curriculum integrates religious values and activities. The religious instruction includes components on prayer, Catholic doctrine, Christian morality, sacred scripture, the sacraments, Mary and the saints, liturgical year, the Mass and Christian family life. In second grade, students are prepared for the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist. Service is emphasized as our human response to God's love for us.	Reading and Language Arts                                                                         Reading instruction is phonics based with whole language concepts used as support. Phonics instruction continues through third grade when the emphasis begins to shift from word attack skills to reading comprehension. Students in upper grades continue to improve their reading, writing and discussion skills through the study of award-winning novels and classic literature. Formal spelling, writing, and English grammar are also taught throughout all grades.
Math Our math program is designed to allow students to develop reasoning skills, to learn to communicate mathematically in written and verbal form, and to understand how to process information critically and analytically. We believe that these skills will allow our students to adapt to the changing technology of the 21st century while maintaining the capacity to enjoy and appreciate mathematics. Students take part in a well-balanced program that blends the mastery of basic computation skills and concepts along with complex problem-solving. Students use traditional instruction, manipulatives, cooperative learning, games and projects to become proficient mathematicians. Our junior high program includes Pre-Algebra and Algebra I instruction for those who are ready.	Science Our science program begins in Kindergarten and continues through 8th grade. Students in grades four through eight receive instruction in our science lab from a credentialed science teacher. The curriculum includes life science, physical science, chemistry and earth science. Each unit builds upon concepts learned in previous years. Students learn through hands-on activities, direct instruction and an approved textbook.
Social Studies Our program closely follows the California state framework for social studies. Primary grades study community, genealogy, holidays and culture. Beginning in fourth grade curriculum centers around California history and geography. Fifth and eight graders learn United States history, and 6th and 7th graders learn world history and geography. Students gain study skills, cooperative learning strategies and appreciation for other cultures through their work in social studies.	Music Music theory and appreciation are taught in every grade. There is an optional band program for students in 4th through 8th grade who want to learn to play brass, woodwind and percussion instruments. Beginning and intermediate band classes each meet two mornings a week before school starts. Our music program is directed and taught by a credentialed music teacher.
Art Our hallways and classrooms are adorned with wonderful student-created art projects. In Kindergarten through second grade, the classroom teachers provide the art lessons. In the older grades, students receive instruction from our art resource teacher. Under her guidance students explore different media, learn about the work of famous artists, and acquire skills in drawing, perspective and design.	Technology Technology is a tool used to enhance and facilitate various learning experiences. Students have formal computer instruction as part of their curriculum. Supervised Internet access is provided for global communication and research projects. Teacher guided use of video cameras, photo equipment, overhead projectors, tape recorders, TV/VCRs and a laser disk player is also offered. The faculty and staff of St. Rose School believe that technology should be used as a vehicle of communication, analysis and research in light of Catholic values and moral decision-making.