Curriculum

RELIGION

Mater Dei Catholic School’s primary message to the students is the Gospel message of hope and salvation fully proclaimed in the person of Jesus Christ. The goals and objectives for catechetical instruction for the various grade levels are based on the Religion Curriculum Guidelines of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, the National Catechetical Directory, and the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Prayer and worship are an integral part of the religious educational program.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS

The Elementary English Language Arts Curriculum (ELA) reflects the standards of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) in the four literary disciplines:

  • Reading – a balance of literature with informational texts
  • Writing – an emphasis on writing argumentative, informative/explanatory, and narrative texts with the inclusion of research
  • Speaking and Listening – an inclusion of formal with informal talk
  • Language – a combination of general academic and domain specific vocabulary emphasizing the conventions of English and the effective use of language

Honors English is available in grades 7 and 8.

MATHEMATICS

The Elementary Mathematics Curriculum is a carefully planned program aligned with the Common Core State Standards (CCSS). The Mathematics curriculum:

  •  focuses on key topics at each grade level and coherently progresses across grade levels.
  •  requires both conceptual understanding and procedural fluency
  •  promotes mathematical proficiency, reasoning, problem solving, modeling, communicating mathematically, decision making and engagement.

The Elementary Honors Mathematics Program is intended to meet the needs of those students who are capable of completing the prescribed curriculum in seven (7), instead of eight (8), years.  The students in this program are identified in grade three (3), and begin formal instruction in grade four (4).  An Honors Mathematics teacher will instruct identified students in grades four (4) through eight (8).  The Algebra I course used by the secondary schools in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia is the eighth (8th) grade honors curriculum.  Participation in the Honors Math Program is contingent upon satisfying specific criteria, as stated in the Archdiocesan guidelines, and the approval of the Archdiocesan Mathematics Committee.

SCIENCE

The Elementary Science Curriculum aligns with the Next Generation Science Standards. Next Generation Science Standards are based on the “Framework K–12 Science Education” that was created by the National Research Council. They have three dimensions that are integrated in instruction at all levels: core ideas, science and engineering practices, and cross cutting concepts. The NGSS give equal emphasis to engineering design and to scientific inquiry.

SOCIAL STUDIES

The Elementary Social Studies Curriculum is based upon the National Council for the Social Studies Scope and Sequence. The goals of the Social Studies Curriculum include the development of knowledge, skills, values, and social participation appropriate to the children’s age and grade level. The content of the Social Studies Program is interdisciplinary, with emphasis on history and geography. Following the directives of the school philosophy, students are prepared to identify and understand the lessons of history and the challenges of a rapidly developing world, within the context of our Christian beliefs.

FINE ARTS

The Fine Arts Program at Mater Dei Catholic School provides students with a solid foundation in music and art concepts by creative experiences and study of the masters. Appreciation for the Fine Arts is interwoven throughout the curriculum.

Music
The goals of the music program are to enhance the knowledge of basic music concepts through study and performance, to foster and develop an appreciation for all styles of music, and to develop basic vocal techniques by singing music of all periods. Music is related to student’s curriculum for that grade level.

Art
The goals of the art department are to develop skill in using art materials through experimentation, manipulation, and practice, to encourage individual expression, and to develop sensitivity to the artistic creations of others throughout history.

SPANISH

Mater Dei Catholic School offers a Spanish class each week.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

The PE program at Mater Dei Catholic School fosters the physical, spiritual, intellectual, social, and emotional development of the child. The program develops Christian values at all levels of instruction. Students grow in concern and sensitivity for the well-being of each other, learn to respect their own bodies, and respect others as gifts from God. The underlying concept of the physical education program is cooperation, which stresses sportsmanship and self-esteem, rather than competition.