Grades 1-4
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Curriculum Overview - Grades 1-4
Roncalli Elementary School offers an excellent academic program in a caring, Christian environment. Our children learn the basics of Roman Catholicism as well as language arts (reading, language, spelling and writing), mathematics, social studies and science.
This core curriculum is enriched with classes in art, health, physical education, music, computer literacy and library/informational skills.To provide each child with a positive educational experience and to develop a good self-image is the goal of our program. We strive to build good attitudes in the children. We seek to help them be aware of the presence of God in their daily lives and to grow spiritually, physically, emotionally and socially at their own levels of learning.
Religion
The religious education of children involves the teaching of doctrine, the modeling of Christian attitudes and the imparting of values. All three of these areas integrate and influence each other. Religious education programs for students offer experiences of faith, sharing, worship through liturgy and prayer, opportunities to be of service and formal instruction within the context of Christian community.Liturgies
Liturgical experiences are one of the most important dimensions of your child's faith life. All students in grades K-5 participate in Eucharistic liturgies weekly. The Eucharist is celebrated at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday at the St. Francis Xavier campus and 9:00 a.m. on Thursday at St. Francis de Sales campus. Parents are welcome and encouraged to join our school communities in these liturgical celebrations.Prayer Times
Prayer is an integral and essential part of the daily program at our school. Teachers provide time and opportunities for the children to nourish their faith through prayer and liturgy. The liturgical seasons of Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter and Pentecost are celebrated in special ways. Formal, informal and spontaneous prayer experiences are afforded to our students. The goal for our children is to build a loving relationship with Jesus the Christ.Language Arts
The study of the English language becomes the key to effective communication in the future. Our systematic study of the basic rudiments of this language enables children to become competent in the communication skills of listening, speaking, writing and the use of the media.A holistic approach to language development provides our children with an understanding of language and integrates the various elements of communication with all the disciplines. Our language arts curriculum fosters an appreciation of the beauty of the English language.
Reading is the most critical element of the entire curriculum. Our Reading instruction utilizes Daily 5/Guided Reading that engages the reader in an interactive process. Reading instruction focuses on comprehension and development of independent readers. The link and connectedness of reading, writing and speaking is fostered in our classrooms. It reflects the integration of the entire curriculum. Ultimately, reading becomes a meaningful and enjoyable experience, which contributes to the development of Christian persons who think, choose and act as contributing members of society.Mathematics
In the area of mathematics education, we strive to develop the strategies necessary to solve problems for decision-making.Our students acquire computational skills and an understanding of the basic processes. Manipulatives are used to further their mastering of the concepts of number theory, fractions, measurements, the decimal system and geometry.
Social Studies
The goal of our social studies curriculum is to develop concerned, educated Christian citizens. We empower students with vision, values, attitudes and skills to become responsible stewards and peacemakers in the world.Our social studies curriculum provides students with basic life skills. Included are studies emphasizing citizenship, map skills, geography, global awareness, economics, history, culture and a study of Wisconsin.Science
Our science program is permeated with a vision of faith. It creates a love for the natural world that leads to responsible stewardship and love for the Creator.Our curriculum emphasizes moral and ethical decision-making. It includes the development of scientific knowledge and skills with an emphasis on hands-on experiences.
We encourage and enable children to observe, question, research and solve scientific problems.
Computer Education
Because computers are an essential tool, we integrate them in all curricular areas. We teach proper care and usage. We strive for creativity, initiative and problem solving in our program. The emphasis is on keyboarding and word processing.
Music
Our program provides opportunities for children to perform, create and appreciate music. Classroom activities such as singing, moving, listening and playing instruments provide a variety of experiences.Our curriculum includes knowledge of basic theory and an understanding of the aesthetic and cultural aspects of music. This foundation provides the context for a life-long process of music appreciation.
Band
Band lessons are available for students in grade 5. Parents are responsible for obtaining an instrument through purchase or rental. (Private piano lessons are not available in our school.)Art
Visual art enables our students to learn to respond to the beauty of God's creation and to the dignity of the individual.Our art program provides teaching in four different areas: art production, aesthetics, art criticism and art history.
Physical Education
The Physical Education program is an integral part of our school program. Movement experiences help to improve physical skills and fitness.Participation in physical activities contributes to the development of self-confidence, cognitive skills, social skills and an appreciation of God's gift of life.
Health/Wellness/Sexuality
Health/wellness programs provide students with the attitudes and skills necessary for healthy Christian living.Jesus promoted wellness in that a healthy life-style is the right and responsibility of each individual to choose behaviors that promote well-being. Through critical thinking, decision-making and problem-solving skills, our students gain control of their life now and in the future.
Choosing right and responsible behavior is the basis of the human sexuality program in our schools. Biological information is integrated with the Catholic Christian tradition regarding the dignity of the human person.