Curriculum Philosophy

Nativity School is built on an academically challenging curriculum for all our students. Nativity parents stress the importance of studying hard to help each child reach their academic potential. Due to the strong support from home, we are able to raise the academic expectations of our program overall. Nativity School offers our students a curriculum which is well balanced and encourages critical thinking skills.

Nativity Religion Philosophy

At Nativity of Our Lord School, our Religion program will help lay a foundation for our children's spiritual growth and knowledge of the Catholic faith. Through prayer, study, scripture, sacraments, liturgical experiences and service to others, the children will have opportunities to connect their faith to daily living.

Our goal is for all students at Nativity of Our Lord School to grow in their understanding of:

• the teachings and lived traditions of the Catholic faith. 
• the celebration of the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, Reconciliation and Confirmation
• the Bible as it relates to everyday life
• the development of morals based on our Catholic faith
• the value of praying personally, communally and liturgically
• their experience with the Church’s social teachings

Nativity Language Arts Philosophy

We believe that language is essential for learning. Effective oral and written communication enhances both personal and social development. The purpose of our language arts curriculum is to provide reading, writing, listening and speaking skills necessary to meet the demands of both school work and daily life.

Nativity Reading Philosophy

At Nativity School we provide all students with the necessary skills to become successful and independent readers. Our reading curriculum focuses on providing students with the necessary reading skills such as decoding, comprehension, and thinking critically about what they read. Our expectation is that reading skills are applied in all curriculum areas so as to foster in our students an understanding that reading is an essential tool for learning. We provide experiences with a variety of genre to encourage a life long love of reading.

Reading Goals

Kindergarten, First and Second Grade

• To develop competency in reading using the phonetic skills taught at that grade level
• To demonstrate emergent comprehension skills
• To communicate and express themselves through oral and written language
• To develop an appreciation and excitement for books through reading, listening and writing activities
• To apply reading skills to other curriculum areas
• To experience a variety of reading genre: fiction, non-fiction, poetry, fables and fairy tales

Third and Fourth Grade

• To develop fluency and expression in reading by applying word attack skills
• To develop both literal comprehension (being able to read for main ideas, recognizing supporting details and an ability to use contextual clues) and inferential comprehension (being able to draw conclusions not specifically stated)
• To become knowledgeable about and develop a respect for diversities of people and opinions of others by reading and discussing a wide range of appropriate materials
• To develop an excitement and enthusiasm for reading that will result in reading becoming a life-long activity
• To apply reading skills in all curriculum areas
• To experience poetry, fiction, non-fiction, fables, fairy tales, biographies, autobiographies, and current events

Fifth and Sixth Grade

• To develop both literal comprehension (reading for main ideas, recognizing supporting details, identifying context clues) and inferential comprehension (analyzing and evaluating)
• To use skills to identify, pronounce, and understand new vocabulary
• To use research skills to help access, organize, and relate information
• To apply reading skills across the curriculum
• To recognize the characteristics of a variety of reading materials (fiction, and non-fiction) and a variety of authors
• To appreciate the activity of reading as a life-long source of enjoyment, information and creative expression

Seventh and Eighth Grade

• To appreciate a variety of genres, authors, and literary styles (poetry, historical fiction, biographies, newspapers, periodicals, young adult fiction, non-fiction, plays, short stories, etc.)
• To understand author’s intent (through study of vocabulary, tone, inferences, facts, opinions, and literary devices)
• To use reading skills independently
• To make connections between reading and students' daily lives
• To prepare for future high school reading and competency tests
• To produce written and oral responses to reflect reading comprehension
• To read books that value people of both genders, all ages, and from various cultures

Nativity Spelling Philosophy

We believe in the importance of correct spelling in students' daily work. The teachers will help the students understand the editing process as a means for identifying words that are spelled incorrectly.

Our goals for the spelling program at Nativity School include…...

• consistent expectations of correct spelling in all content areas.
• emphasis on self-correction at appropriate grade levels
• use of peer editing when appropriate

Nativity Handwriting Philosophy

The emphasis of the handwriting program at Nativity School is focused on a balance between correct form and legibility.

Our goals for the handwriting program at Nativity School include…...

• consistent expectations regarding acceptable work
• provide students with more activities related to transference
• a commitment to consistent practice

Kindergarten: Introduction to letter formation

First Grade: Introduction and practice of letter formation

Second Grade: Reinforcement of correct letter formation

Third Grade: Introduction to cursive formation

Fourth Grade: Reinforcement/Practice of cursive formation

Fifth Grade: Practice of cursive

Nativity Math Philosophy

At Nativity we believe that every child can be successful at learning mathematics. We believe children learn best in an active environment in which they work together, think together, and communicate about the mathematics they are learning. A balance between exploration, computation, problem solving, and mathematics used in daily life will be the focus of our instruction. Each student will be able to understand mathematics by continuously building on the foundation of mathematical concepts and applications taught and experienced over time.

Our goals for each student at Nativity School are…

• to become actively involved in the exploration and learning of mathematics concepts
• to apply problem solving skills to real life experiences
• to develop critical thinking skills through problem solving experiences
• to make connections and apply mathematics to their daily lives
• to think and communicate their ideas using mathematical language
• to develop analytical and logical reasoning skills
• to be prepared for a successful secondary school mathematical experience

Grade Level Scope and Sequence

The following list outlines the major math concepts taught within the designated grade level(s):

Grades K - 2

• Counting pattern, building and identification
• Place Value
• Addition and subtraction through 20
• Introduction to telling time
• Introduction to money
• Geometry - geometric shapes
• Basic Measurement
• Graphing
• Introduction to fractions
• Problem Solving
• Communication

Grades 3 and 4

• Focus on Multiplication and Division (fact families)
• Gain mastery of time and money
• Introduction to decimals
• Introduction to factoring
• Introduction to ratios
• Fractions
• Estimation
• Measurement
• Problem Solving
• Data Collection (graphs, charts, etc.)
• Communication

Grade 5 and 6

• Estimation/Mental Math
• Fractions
• Decimals
• Integers (positive and negative numbers)
• Pre-Algebra
• Order of operations and writing expressions
• Geometry
• Measurement
• Ratios - Proportions - Percents
• Statistics, Graphing, Probability
• Problem Solving
• Communication

Grade 7: Pre-Algebra

• Understand and use number ideas
• Understand and use variables as replacements for numbers
• Compute with integers and rational numbers
• Write and solve algebra equations using addition and multiplication
• Demonstrate recognition of common geometric shapes
• Determine measurements of polygons and angles by using measuring instruments or formulas for computing perimeter, area, and volume
• Use the concepts of ratio, proportion, and percent
• Apply learned problem solving strategies
• Locate points on the coordinate system
• Display data on various types of graphs

Grade 8: Algebra

• Compute with integers, decimal fractions, and common fractions
• Write and solve algebra equations with one or two variables
• Use the mathematical properties
• Use formulas for problem solving
• Add, subtract, multiply and divide polynomials
• Factor trinomials
• Graph lines on the coordinate system
• Add, subtract, multiply and divide algebraic fractions
• Solve algebraic percent problems
• Add, subtract, multiply and divide radicals
• Solve quadratic equations
• Problem solve in each content area
• Use life-skill mathematics

Nativity Science Philosophy

At Nativity School we believe that every child can be successful at learning science. Our curriculum focuses on the basic principles of physical, life and earth sciences. We believe children learn best in an active environment in which they work together, think together and communicate about the science they are learning. We strive to create a balance of instructional experiences using lecture, discussion, and a variety of exploration and hands-on activities. We hope students will gain an appreciation for science by applying these principles in their daily lives.

In kindergarten through second grade our goal for each student is to…

• become actively involved in learning science through a thematic approach
• experience science that is realistic, exciting, and connected to their daily lives
• develop a desire to investigate the world around them
• have opportunities for hands-on exploration
• think and communicate scientifically

In third through fifth grade our goal for each student is to...

• develop an awareness of, and gain an appreciation about, specific areas of science
• be introduced to, understand and apply the scientific method
• experience success in their introduction to physical, life and earth science
• explore science using hands-on experiences with real objects
• think and communicate scientifically
• make connections from scientific discovery to their daily lives

In sixth through eighth grade our goal is for each student is to…

• communicate scientifically in written and verbal form
• demonstrate their ability to use scientific equipment properly
• successfully apply the scientific process by...
-- recording information based on data and observations of investigations
-- drawing conclusions that help correlate lab experiences to current content
• develop and apply the skills necessary for independent research
• make connections from scientific discovery to their daily lives.

Nativity Social Studies Philosophy

At Nativity School , our students will learn to be caring and responsible citizens. Students will be encouraged in their curiosity to explore the constantly changing world around them. Our curriculum focuses on the basic principles of History, Geography, and current issues in our world today. We believe children learn best in an active environment in which they work together, think together, and communicate about the world in which they are living. We strive to create a balance of instructional experiences using lecture, discussion, and a variety of exploration and interactive learning activities.

In kindergarten through second grade our goal for each student is to…

• become actively involved in learning social studies through a thematic approach
• develop a desire to appreciate different cultures in our world past and present
• have cross curricular experiences to enhance social studies learning
• introduce map and globe skills

In third through fifth grade our goal for each student is to…

• gain an awareness of and information about geography, history, current events and cultures
• experience success in their introduction to geography, history, current events and cultures
• explore the areas of social studies through reading, hands-on projects and discussions
• make connections from their community to the global community

In sixth through eighth grade our goal for each student is to…

• foster curiosity about and connections to local, national and global issues
• develop an understanding of how cultural influences affect the way we interact and relate to the world around us
• learn about the decision-making process necessary to participate in a democratic society
• learn the importance of taking an active role in their world (locally, nationally, internationally)
• through the use of technology, literature and lecture the students will be exposed to global communities and understand how all people are interconnected
• prepare students to live in a world of tremendous challenges and rapid changes

Nativity Specialist Curriculum

Nativity Spanish Philosophy

We believe that the study of the Spanish language and culture will foster a broader understanding and appreciation of our ever increasing multi-cultural community and world.

Our goal is for the students to complete a program during 6th, 7th and 8th grades that is equivalent to the first level of high school Spanish. Students who excel are encouraged to begin second level or higher in their first year of high school.

Our goal for each middle school student is to...

• express themselves meaningfully using both the written and verbal language
• develop the skills necessary for beginning conversational Spanish
• understand and apply the rules of grammar to the Spanish language
• become aware of the culture and geography of the Spanish-speaking countries

Nativity Music and Visual Art Philosophy

At Nativity School , we provide our students with introductory skills, knowledge and positive experiences in the arts. The students are given many opportunities to become actively engaged in learning about and creating music and art. Skills and concepts are presented in a gradual, developmentally appropriate, sequence. Nativity strives to create a skill-based foundation that will enrich students' appreciation of the arts and motivate them to pursue future participation in both music and art.

Our goal for each student in music is to...

• develop performance skills through singing and playing Orff instruments
• understand musical theory and notation by performing songs and instrumental pieces which utilize the theory concepts being taught.
• develop an understanding and appreciation of a variety of musical
• styles and cultures by singing, playing, and listening to a wide range of music.
• be exposed to a basic history of music

Our goal for each student in art is to...

• develop artistic appreciation by viewing works of art
• develop an understanding of a particular media and artistic concepts
• develop skills in drawing and painting, color mixing, and clay construction
• demonstrate their understanding of the five basic elements of art (line, shape, color, texture, value) in the production of works of art
• complete projects which exhibit individual creative interpretations
• develop skills in visualization

Nativity Physical Education Philosophy

At Nativity School our students will develop an understanding of the importance of physical education and how it relates to living a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Our students will develop physical and social skills as we focus on physical and health development in our program. They will work cooperatively in a learning environment in which unit and daily goals will be used to help students develop higher level skills. At Nativity School we balance competition with other values gained from participation in sports. Nativity strives to create a program that is fun, challenging, promotes a positive self-image, and is safe for all of our students.

In kindergarten through first grade our goal for each student is to...

• perform and identify locomotor skills (skipping, jumping etc.)
• demonstrate the importance of safety, getting along with others and good sportsmanship
• develop and identify their individual space awareness
• comprehend the rules of the activities presented in the curriculum
• In second through third grade our goal for each student is to...
• identify locomotor and non-locomotor skills (stretching in place etc.)
• actively participate individually or in cooperative group settings
• integrate their learned skills into game situations
• be responsible for keeping score during activities
• understand and demonstrate appropriate reactions to winning and losing
• consistently demonstrate fair play and good sportsmanship

In fourth and fifth grade our goal for each student is to...

• incorporate physical activity into every day living
• play cooperatively and fairly
• keep accurate score and measurements during activities
• understand and demonstrate appropriate reactions to winning and losing
• demonstrate knowledge of specific rules and strategies in game situations
• consistently demonstrate fair play and good sportsmanship

In the middle school, our goal for each student is to...

• consistently demonstrate fair play and good sportsmanship
• know and understand the rules of the sports covered in the curriculum
• follow all safety guidelines to help maintain a safe learning environment
• recognize & appreciate that students develop physical skills at different rates
• develop the skills necessary for participation in some life long physical activities

* Nativity School also as an extensive athletic program governed by our athletic policy

Nativity Library and Computer Philosophy

At Nativity our students will develop an understanding of libraries, research, and the use of computers. We provide our student with access to quality literature and reference sources, in print and electronic formats. Our curriculum focuses on developing organizational and decision making skills necessary for students to accomplish introductory research tasks. Our curriculum encourages both individual and group work using an interactive approach to learning. We believe that children learn best in an active learning environment. We try to connect the curriculum being taught in the classrooms with the curriculum being taught in both computer and library. The students will be able to access the appropriate resources and use research and computer skills to enhance their education beyond Nativity.

Our goal for each student in the K-6 Library Curriculum is to…

• Use the computer catalog to identify and locate desired materials
• Develop introductory research skills through retrieval, interpretation, and evaluation of information by accessing reference material:
-- print and software
-- periodicals
-- world wide web
• Understand the organization of Nativity’s collection (Dewey Decimal System)
• Reinforce an appreciation for literature and set a foundation for a lifelong love of learning

Our goal for each student in the K-5 computer curriculum is to…

• Develop basic computer skills including: using a mouse, keyboard layout, saving work, and opening and closing programs
• Use typing tutorial to learn basic keyboarding skills
• Develop word processing skills including: creating documents, cutting, pasting, formatting, and adding original graphics to work
• Reinforce math, reading, and problem solving skills through the use of interactive software
• Demonstrate the ability to use multi-media software to create slide shows containing original graphics, word processing and sounds

Our goal for each student in the 6-8 computer curriculum is to…

• Reinforce typing and word processing skills
• Demonstrate the ability to create a database and use it to organize and sort information
• Demonstrate the ability to create a spreadsheet using formulas
• Use multi-media software to present a different perspective on varied subjects
• Use Hypercard as a simple programming tool to create moving pictures
• Use graphic software to learn simple concepts in layout design
• Use computers as a tool to enhance cross-curricular learning in Spanish, Art, Social Studies, Math and English