Middle Level Education
5th-6th Grade
At Saint Joseph Catholic School, the academic and social offerings of the fifth and sixth curriculum adopt a middle level approach. The curriculum places a strong emphasis on STREAM (science, technology, religion, engineering, art, and math) in order to foster a comprehensive understanding of the interconnectedness of these disciplines and their practical application in the real world. Students are actively encouraged to engage in critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and collaborative learning. Furthermore, the Erie Diocese curriculum has been carefully aligned with the curriculum of the Warren County School District, ensuring a seamless transition for students into the public education system upon completion of sixth grade.
Religious instruction courses facilitate the dissemination of Gospel principles, ethical standards, and the cultivation of virtuous character, all of which are rooted in the teachings of the Catholic Church, for students in both the fifth and sixth grades. The curriculum employed for these grade levels is the “Encounter and Finding God Series,” which incorporates the study and comprehension of the Catholic Bible. Furthermore, the religious curriculum and benchmarks set forth by the Diocese of Erie are adhered to and fulfilled. Additionally, all students are required to attend the weekly school Mass.
MATH, SCIENCE, HEALTH
Students will acquire a robust understanding of mathematics and science principles, as well as develop proficient problem-solving abilities. Particular attention is given to personalized performance-based tasks that adhere to the Common Core Standards. Students will actively engage in hands-on activities, employing the scientific method, observation techniques, and data collection. The curriculum for fifth grade centers on the standards of Physical Science, while the sixth grade curriculum centers on the standards of Earth Science. The alignment of Science and Health with the Warren County School District curriculum and the Pennsylvania state standards is ensured.
LANGUAGE ARTS and SOCIAL STUDIES
These subjects are instructed through the implementation of a cross-curricular methodology. Both areas of study incorporate educational excursions on foot, which aid students in gaining a deeper comprehension of the progression of local, state, and federal government, as well as history. The Language Arts curriculum is centered around literature and is designed to align with the Common Core Standards. Both fifth and sixth grade levels employ a diverse range of fictional novels and the Benchmark Literature Program. Additionally, the fifth and sixth grade levels employ the APA writing process to emphasize grammar and comprehension skills, while simultaneously fostering the growth of each student’s individual writing abilities.
Social Activities
Project Plastic
The school-wide recycling program is managed by Project Plastic. The recycling program encompasses paper and plastic materials, with plans to incorporate additional items in the near future. The club provides students with an opportunity to gain knowledge on the significance of recycling, sustainability, and environmental issues.
Metalsmithing and Jewelry Design Class
Exclusive to sixth graders, the Allegheny Center for the Arts (ACA) in Warren, PA offers a monthly program on metalsmithing and jewelry design, which is provided free of charge. This course imparts fundamental skills in sculpture and jewelry design to students, who work with non-ferrous metals such as copper, silver, and brass, utilizing techniques such as sawing, filing, soldering, and sanding to create their pieces. Additionally, semi-formal critiques are conducted to facilitate the artistic growth of each student.
Battle of the Books
Fifth and sixth grade students are afforded the privilege to partake in the esteemed event known as the Battle of the Books. This prestigious competition traditionally spans from the month of January until the culmination of the academic year.
Morning Announcements
The responsibility of delivering the school-wide morning announcements has been entrusted to the students of the fifth and sixth grade.
Friends of PreK
Fifth and sixth grade students are afforded the privilege of assuming the role of morning assistants in the Preschool classroom. These more mature students assist their younger counterparts in their arrival, preparation for the day, engagement in story reading, and creation of artwork. The fifth and sixth graders serve as exemplars of proper school conduct, while also emphasizing the importance of conducting oneself in a manner reflective of the teachings of Christ. The cultivation of positive relationships among all students of Saint Joseph is an integral aspect of the club’s overarching mission.