Blessed Sacrament students in grades third, fourth and fifthwork to both solidify basic skills and,
at the same time, expand and apply these skills in increasingly complex ways.
SCIENCE/SOCIAL STUDIES
Science and Social Studies become central during these years,
and research and study skills are a major focus. Students become immersed in many
topics.At any one time, one may see
various examples of the rich curriculum.Third grade “pioneers” study and work their way west on the Oregon Trail. Fourth graders design projects on biomes and
experience a day of hands on science at the Chesapeake Bay.
The fifth grade students study the Colonies,
visit Mount Vernon
and later in the year, research and present projects on the immigration history
of each of their families.
LANGUAGE ARTS/MATH
Language arts and math instruction are core to the development
of the strong skills needed for success at all levels of our school.A
basal series in reading (with its continued focus on specific skills for
comprehension and vocabulary) is supplemented with the reading of novels at all
three grade levels.Our excellent school
library provides opportunities to expand students’ exposure to literature of
all genres. The STEP UP TO WRITING program helps build strong writing skills
beginning with simple paragraphs and letter writing and moving to more
sophisticated multi-paragraph papers.The
Houghton Mifflin math series guides our development of basic and more complex
math, and some Saxon Math is used to transition students from the primary Saxon
Math program (K-2). Both the math and
language arts programs meet individual needs by flexible grouping.
Our Catholic Identity is central to all that we do. We pray
together each morning and encourage a community feeling by grouping children asBUDDIES across the three grade
levels.The BUDDIES participate in
shared service projects, curriculum challenges (such as the 3-4-5 Geography Bee) and prayer.The C.A.R.E. Program (COURTESY, ACCEPTANCE,
RESPECT for EVERYONE) helps us stay centered on the practical applications of
our faith , and a life of service is encouraged by a variety of projects
throughout the year.We attend Mass
together and have a coordinated textbook which ensures that the basic tenants of
our faith are taught at appropriate times. Our Faith Formation Director leads
us in prayer, supports our faith practices and provides resources for involving
us in the life and devotions of the Church.
SPECIAL CLASSES/EVENTS
Students are introduced to French during their third grade
year and then choose to study either French or Spanish from fourth grade on.Other special classes include Physical Education (same sex classes in
fourth and fifth grades), music, art, library, computers, bandand
guidance (grades four
and five).Each grade has a special music presentation at
some point during each year and our WEEK
OF THE ARTS introduces students
to the world of international cultures.Students are invited to join the school choir during these years and joint concerts with our band are part
of our school year.
SUPPORT STAFF:Our excellent support staff assists in our
overall program:DIRECTOR OF FAITH
FORMATION; LOWER SCHOOL SCIENCE COORDINATOR; LIBRARIAN; RESOURCE TEACHERS;GUIDANCE COUNSELOR; COMPUTER TEACHER;
TECHNICAL SUPPORT PERSON.
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