Curriculum
The Guardian Angels School curriculum follows the Graded Course of Study for each subject as provided by the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. Our school program is a dynamic blend of current, research-based educational practices, incorporated with proven traditional curricula and methods. The following descriptions give a brief look at the major subject curriculum
Religion
Guardian Angels School strives to provide an environment which prepares each student for a culturally diverse world by proclaiming values rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Values of respect and service cross all curriculums and provide the context in which our children learn. Daily prayer and daily religion classes are the forum for our students to learn about their faith. Sacramental preparation in second grade for First Reconciliation and First Communion and in seventh grade for Confirmation are important elements of the religion program in those grades.
Mathematics
The mathematics curriculum is strongly rooted in developing and mastering basic skills while constantly challenging students to understand patterns, use problem-solving and reasoning skills, and seek answers to why not just how. In the primary grades, teachers emphasize basic operations, word problems, time, and money. While students in the intermediate grades work to master operations, they are introduced to algebra and geometry concepts. In junior high, students prepare for high school with great emphasis on analyzing and describing patterns, number theory, Elementary Algebra 1 and Plane and Solid Geometry. All grade levels utilize Accelerated Math to allow students to master and strengthen skills at their own pace.
Language Arts
The study of language arts encompasses reading, writing, and speaking with proper grammar and English usage beginning with a phonics program in kindergarten. Primary grades read in a variety of settings—class, small groups, individual and teacher-led groups—and use the Sitton Spelling Program and Zaner Bloser Handwriting method. Intermediate grades begin to use different genres to strengthen vocabulary and understanding of the language. Students also learn the writing process and develop good organization and planning methods for strong, coherent writing. In junior high, students read a blend of classics and modern literature daily and keep journals and writing logs to sharpen grammar and writing skills. All students take STAR Literacy Tests at least twice a year to track reading levels.
Science
A state-of-the-art science lab complements the inquiry-based science curriculum adopted two years ago across all grade levels. An emphasis on the scientific method drives the broad-based science program with age-appropriate exercises in observation, demonstration, and experimentation. The curriculum covers physical science, life science, earth science, chemistry, and physics at different points in the grade levels.
Social Studies
The primary grades are introduced to map skills and learn the concept of community, laws, and historical individuals. Fourth graders learn United States geography, land, government, and economics while the fifth grade concentrates on geography and the ancient world. Our sixth grade students study the growth of civilization through modern World History and geography. Seventh graders studies American History, and eighth graders learns about the Constitution, the election process, stock market and our legal system.
