 I. Language Arts |
The Language Arts program focuses on teaching Literature, Grammar, Composition and Vocabulary. Students experience both classic and modern literature in which they discuss and analyze concepts and ideas. They learn to apply literary terms and recognize author style, technique, and structure.
Students develop a variety of writing forms including descriptive, persuasive, narrative and expository forms, utilizing appropriate levels of grammar applications for a particular grade. Formal grammar instruction continues throughout the program to be applied in students’ writing assignments and to aid students in achieving a practical and theoretical knowledge of the language.
Spelling and Vocabulary instruction continue through eighth grade.
 II. Mathematics |
The Middle School mathematics program develops the concept of numbers, geometry, and computation. Sixth grade Math expands upon the concepts learned in grades 1 - 5. Seventh grade Math introduces students to pre-algebra concepts. Some eighth grade students qualify to study Algebra I in preparation for the end-of-course Algebra test for high school credit. For the 2008-2009 school year, our Math program will expand with Accelerated Math classes for grades 6, 7, and 8.
The MHOC Math Team is an extra-curricular activity offered to students who qualify.
| III. Social Studies |
The Middle School Social Studies curriculum examines aspects of World History and Ancient Civilizations, American History and Government, and Geography. Note taking, map reading, framing critical questions, and recognizing relationships are skills emphasized throughout the program.
| IV. Science |
Science in middle school develops the concepts of life, earth, and physical science. We stress reasoning, note taking and the use of scientific method. The Middle School laboratory is equipped with microscopes, and other scientific tools that aid students in observation and inquiry. Science Fair projects are a mandatory part of the science curriculum. These projects allow students to develop an awareness of problems in their environment and develop an understanding of the scientific and technological changes in society.
| V. Religion |
Jesus calls to each child, “Follow me” (Luke 9:23). At MHOC, content is integrated 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. In Middle School, the students follow scripture closely and learn the value of faith in daily life. Students participate in morning and afternoon prayers as well as prayers before meals. Weekly Mass is a time to come together as a school and rejoice in God’s blessings. Our goal is to nurture each child’s relationship with Jesus. This is achieved through both text and music in the curriculum area. To share in Jesus’ life more fully, they will:
- Spiritually grow and develop through service hours, Confirmation Projects, and other outreach programs
- Be introduced to and develop basic religious knowledge in the Old and New Testaments, Church history nd morality
- Be taught Christian values which will help our students make good moral decisions when confronted with tought situations
| VI. Religion (Benziger: Family Life) |
Morals and values are integrated into the various content areas that further provide a firm foundation in faith as well as being taught separately using the Family Life series. The curriculum provides a moral catechesis for students, places human sexuality within the context of Christian values, offers a catechesis of hope in spite of the challenges facing the Catholic family, and adapts to the changing times and needs of the Church. At MHOC, we believe in a true partnership among parish, school and home in the service of authentic Christian moral living.
| VII. Spanish |
The Spanish curriculum at MHOC is a balanced, communication-based program. Students use a wide range of print and technology components, which meet the needs of the diverse learning population. By integrating language and culture, Spanish lessons come alive and become more authentic to the learning process. With a hands-on application approach to Spanish, students are able to build upon their prior knowledge and work to become fluent in the language.
Students receive Spanish instruction twice a week. During instruction, students practice listening, speaking, writing, and reading so that they can achieve mastery of Spanish I and enter the second instructional level in high school Spanish. The program uses games, cultural anecdotes, songs and direct instruction as students learn conversational vocabulary, grammatical structure and correct pronunciation.
| VIII. Art |
Art classes and projects become more individualized in Middle School as students develop their own tastes and interests. They can sustain interest in lengthier projects that involve a combination of skills and media.
| IX. Music |
Middle School students learn to play the recorder. They also have many opportunities to perform. Students play guitar and sing at liturgies. All students participate in the annual Christmas concert. Private instmruent lessons are available through school as an extra-curricular activity.
| X. Physical Education |
Middle School Physical Education focuses on seasonal sports and opportunities for skill-building and intramural play. Middle School students may participate in junior varsity and varsity inter-scholastic sports, which are offered through tryouts during each season of the school year.
| XI. Computer Technology |
The technology curriculum teaches students how to use computers as tools for learning and communicating. Students learn visual literacy and develop research skills.
The school has ample technological resources including fully-networked desktop computers in each classroom and a state-of-the-art computer lab.
A Technology Club is also offered to students as an extra-curricular activity.
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