Operating under the auspices of the Archdiocese of Baltimore Division of Catholic Schools, Monsignor Slade Catholic School follows the Course of Study developed by this educational entity. This curriculum meets or exceeds the curriculum requirements for the Maryland State Board of Education. A Slade education gives students access to state-of-the-art technology, exposure to cultural and performing arts programs, and a solid educational and spiritual foundation rooted in the basics.

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Kindergarten

The primary level learner is beginning a journey of faith. By participating in Mass, prayer services, community projects, and open dialogs with teachers, the primary student can focus on many basic concepts. Instilled in the primary learner are some basic concepts: Jesus is God; the Holy Spirit is God’s presence in each of us; God is a loving and forgiving Father; the Bible is God’s Word to us; God’s people, the Church; and care for one another. The primary learner acquires a growing awareness of God in his or her life.

Religion, language arts, and math are taught daily. The primary grades are departmentalized in language arts and math, which includes science and social studies. Each year builds upon the previous year’s skills. Beginning in first grade, language arts is taught through a basal system incorporating phonetic and English skills. These skills are further developed through personal journal and creative writing. Trade books are incorporated in the second and third grades to instill further a solid foundation for reading. Spelling is taught by the use of word families.

Mathematics at the primary level provides the foundation upon which all learners build the critical thought competencies necessary in today’s world. A variety of strategies are used to meet the unique learning styles of our students. In first grade, science and social studies are taught alternately throughout the week, but they are part of the daily curriculum in the second and third grades. Each of these subjects allows the primary student hands-on experiences, lively discussions, and a risk-free environment for questioning. Physical, earth, and life sciences are introduced and expanded upon each subsequent year through the primary grades. Social studies explores the roles of families (grade 1), neighborhoods (grade 2), and global communities (grade 3). Weekly classes in art, computer technology, media, music, and physical education complement the primary experience.

The intermediate level focuses on the beginning preparation for a smooth transition into middle school. Responsibility and development of faith are primary objectives of this level. Continuing the development of the journey of faith in daily religion classes, the fourth grade student explores the Beatitudes and the Ten Commandments while the fifth grade student focuses on the sacraments. Students participate in Mass, prayer services, community service projects, and lively dialogues. An intensive study of the parts of speech is undertaken in the language arts curriculum. Mechanical skills are refined through daily writing drills and personal journals. Authentic literature and basal readers are used to reinforce reading skills. Vocabulary development is introduced through the study of prefixes, suffixes and roots. Emphasis is placed on the individual student becoming an independent reader through the use of novels.

Building upon the skills taught in previous grades, higher level math competencies are taught. Fractions, decimals, geometry, and advanced problem solving skills are developed. Life, physical, and earth sciences are explored through hands-on activities and discussions. The social studies curriculum in the fourth grade focuses on world regions, Maryland, and the five themes of geography. The fifth grade concentrates on American History through the Civil War, westward expansion of the United States, the Industrial Revolution and American Government. Weekly participation in art, music, computer technology, physical education, and media enhance the academic curriculum at this level.

The goal of the middle school is the further development of the independent learner who is a responsible, contributing member of society. Academic and social preparedness for high school are also emphasized.

Middle school religion focuses on the study of the Mass, the history of the Church, the study of the sacraments, and the importance of prayer. Moral decision-making is discussed, and students are encouraged to engage in intense examination of their own values and behaviors to determine if they are consistent with the teachings of the Church.

Language arts begins each year with a review of basic grammar. Essay and research writing skills are developed and refined. The art of public speaking, as well as the use of technology to enhance presentations, is introduced. Vocabulary development is reinforced through the study of prefixes, suffixes and roots. The critical analysis of literature is undertaken through class discussion and analytical writing.

The goal of middle school mathematics is the expansion of the basic math and problem-solving skills moving toward a higher cognitive level necessary for the challenge of Pre-Algebra and Algebra I. The middle school science program, using a hands-on approach, covers General Science, Life Science, and Earth Science. The social studies curriculum focuses on World Geography, American History, and World History. Concept development, critical thinking, map skills, and verbal participation are emphasized in all subject areas.

Spanish is offered to students in grades seven and eight. Successful completion of this two-year course may enable Monsignor Slade graduates to enroll in Spanish II as high school freshmen. Art, music, physical education, and computer technology are offered on a weekly basis to enhance the middle school curriculum.