Mother of Mercy Academy
Curriculum Standards
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K - 8 Math
The Diocese of Pittsburgh's mathematics curriculum is crafted to meet the rigorous standards established by the Pennsylvania Department of Education while reflecting our Catholic values. We aim to ensure that students not only acquire procedural skills and conceptual understanding but also integrate a Catholic worldview and faith-based virtues into their learning. This dual approach enables students to apply critical mathematical knowledge effectively at higher educational levels and in their daily lives, guided by a Catholic lens that emphasizes the beauty and order of God’s creation, the complementarity of faith and reason, and the full formation of the human person in all domains: intellectual, moral and spiritual.
Mathematics education in Pennsylvania emphasizes a small number of critical areas at each grade level. Students build a solid foundation that supports their progression through increasingly complex mathematical topics by focusing on these key concepts.
The general goals of our curriculum include:
● Make sense of and persevere in solving complex mathematical problems by instilling the virtues of understanding and fortitude.
● Use practical mathematical reasoning to construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others rooted in the virtues of integrity and respect.
● Communicate with precision when making mathematical statements and express answers with precision appropriate for the context of the problem/situation, guided by prudence and truthfulness.
● Apply mathematical knowledge to analyze and model situations/relationships using multiple representations and appropriate tools to make decisions, solve problems, and draw conclusions, guided by the virtues of stewardship and service.
● Foster a love for learning and an enduring curiosity about mathematics by instilling the virtues of wisdom and wonder.
When taught through the lens of Catholic virtues, mathematics becomes more than an academic discipline; it becomes a means of nurturing a well-rounded individual who recognizes the hand of God in creation and values both knowledge and virtue. By integrating faith into our mathematics goals, we aim to develop students who excel in their studies and embody our Catholic faith's values in their daily lives.
The Diocese of Pittsburgh’s K-8 math curriculum ensures that students build a solid foundation in mathematical skills while developing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Through a blend of academic rigor, Catholic values, and real-world application, students are prepared for the challenges of high school mathematics and equipped with the tools to make ethical, informed decisions in their everyday lives. This curriculum aligns with Pennsylvania state standards while incorporating the Diocese’s mission of educating students holistically, both academically and spiritually.
Grades K-2
In the early grades, the focus is on building a strong understanding of basic mathematical concepts and operations. This stage emphasizes number sense, counting, and developing a clear understanding of addition and subtraction.
Key Concepts:
Number Recognition and Counting: Understanding numbers, counting to 100, and recognizing patterns.
Basic Operations: Introduction to addition and subtraction within 20, using objects, drawings, and mental math strategies.
Measurement and Data: Exploring concepts of length, weight, and time using appropriate tools and strategies.
Geometry: Identifying and describing shapes (squares, triangles, circles), and understanding spatial relationships.
Grades 3-5
In the intermediate grades, students begin working with more complex operations and are introduced to multiplication, division, and fractions. These grades solidify their understanding of numbers and operations while laying the groundwork for algebraic thinking.
Key Concepts:
Operations with Larger Numbers: Mastery of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, including multi-digit operations.
Fractions and Decimals: Introduction to fractions, including understanding parts of a whole and simple operations with fractions, along with the basics of decimals.
Measurement and Data Interpretation: Solving problems involving time, length, volume, and interpreting data from graphs and charts.
Geometry: Understanding area and perimeter, classifying shapes, and learning about angles and symmetry.
Hands-On Learning: The curriculum encourages the use of manipulatives, visual models, and real-life problem-solving scenarios. Students are also guided to explore math concepts using technological tools.
Grades 6-8
The middle school curriculum is designed to transition students from concrete arithmetic to abstract mathematical thinking. Students deepen their understanding of fractions, decimals, and percentages, and begin exploring algebraic expressions, equations, and geometric reasoning.
Key Concepts:
Ratios and Proportional Relationships: Understanding ratios, rates, and proportional reasoning as a precursor to algebraic concepts.
Algebra: Introduction to variables, expressions, and simple equations. Students also begin to solve linear equations and inequalities.
Geometry: Exploring more advanced geometric concepts, including surface area, volume, and the properties of triangles, circles, and polygons.
Statistics and Probability: Interpreting data, understanding probability, and using graphs and tables to represent data.
Functions: Introduction to functions, graphing on the coordinate plane, and understanding linear relationships.
Real-World Applications: Problem-solving is grounded in real-world contexts, helping students connect abstract mathematical ideas with practical applications. This includes projects, group work, and opportunities to use math in everyday situations like budgeting and planning.
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K - 8 English Language Arts
The study of Language Arts focuses on the processes of communication, integrating both receptive (listening and reading) and expressive (speaking and writing) activities. In alignment with the Diocese of Pittsburgh’s guidelines and Pennsylvania state standards, the comprehensive goals of the language arts program include fostering individual growth in language skills, promoting effective oral and written communication, encouraging creative responses to literature, and utilizing technology to enhance communication.
This curriculum not only meets Pennsylvania’s state standards but also aligns with the Diocese of Pittsburgh’s mission to develop students both academically and spiritually, ensuring they communicate with clarity, purpose, and respect for others.
Grades K-2
Reading: Grade K-2 reading focuses on phonics, decoding skills, and fluency with simple texts. Children are introduced to various literary forms, including stories that reflect Christian morals and values, fostering both literacy skills and character development. Emphasis is placed on progressing language skills based on individual ability, allowing students to build a strong literacy foundation that supports further development.
Writing: Students learn to write letters, words, and simple sentences, using writing as a way to express themselves creatively and purposefully. Students work toward ease and clarity in written communication from a young age, while also developing the ability to write with purpose.
Speaking & Listening: Basic listening and speaking activities involve retelling stories and sharing ideas, encouraging students to communicate clearly. Students work to build comfort in oral communication while participating in discussions and responding to literature.
Grades 3-5
Reading: As students’ reading abilities grow, they begin reading more complex texts, including a mix of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Students analyze the structure, purpose, and themes of the literature, with Catholic stories and religious themes woven into the curriculum. Using language with clarity and purpose, fostering the ability to respond to literature creatively through drama, writing, and visual arts. Emphasis is placed on organizing ideas into coherent multi-paragraph texts, covering narrative, informative, and opinion writing. Students are also introduced to digital tools for communication. There is a focus on encouraging progress in writing skills and the use of technology, including computers and audio or video tools, to develop modern communication methods.
Speaking & Listening: Presentations and group discussions become more frequent, focusing on clearly conveying ideas while building mutual understanding and respect for different perspectives through collaborative activities. Students have opportunities for responsible expression and the delivery of ideas through media.
Grades 6-8
Reading: Students engage in deeper analysis of both literary and informational texts, exploring themes, the author’s intent, and more complex literary elements. Exposure to diverse literary forms from different cultures and religions helps broaden their worldview. Students work toward building creative expression and critical analysis through literary works, encouraging mutual respect for people of all ages, cultures, and languages.
Writing: Writing assignments expand to include research projects, persuasive essays, and argumentative writing. Students gain experience in crafting thoughtful, well-organized written works, supported by evidence. They also compose digital presentations and other media-based communications. Teachers work to ensure that students are adept at using language for both creative expression and logical argumentation, while also using their technology skills for modern communication.
Speaking & Listening: Oral communication skills become more refined through formal presentations, debates, and discussions, where students analyze differing viewpoints and develop their own positions. They also engage in delivering creative performances and multimedia projects. In grades 6-8, there is an emphasis on delivering ideas effectively across multiple formats and media.
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K - 8 Social Studies
The Diocese of Pittsburgh's social studies curriculum integrates the academic study of history, geography, civics, and culture with the teaching of Christian social values. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of understanding the community, the nation, and the world through a Catholic lens, encouraging students to reflect on their roles as responsible and ethical citizens. Map and geography skills are reinforced at all grade levels to ensure students can interpret the world spatially and make informed connections between places and historical events.
The Social Studies curriculum in the Diocese of Pittsburgh is designed to prepare students for responsible and ethical citizenship. By studying history, geography, and cultures through the lens of Catholic values, students gain a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of humanity and the importance of leading a life grounded in moral principles. The curriculum encourages students to apply what they learn in social studies to their own lives, promoting a future where they actively contribute to peace, justice, and the common good.
Grades K-2:
The early grades introduce students to the concept of community, starting with an exploration of family, friends, and community helpers. This foundational stage emphasizes understanding the role of individuals in society and the importance of cooperation and kindness, aligning with Christian teachings on service to others. Emphasis is placed on how individuals and communities function, laying the foundation for understanding social systems. Basic map and geography skills are introduced to develop spatial awareness.
Grades 3-5
As students progress, the curriculum expands to cover the history and geography of the United States, beginning with Pennsylvania. Students explore how historical events and geographic features have shaped both local and national development, from early colonization through the Civil War. Key themes include the study of Pennsylvania’s history, U.S. geography, and significant events leading up to and including the Civil War. Students learn to interpret historical events with a focus on justice, responsibility, and ethical leadership, drawing connections between their lessons and Catholic values.Grades 6-8
In middle school, the curriculum takes a broader view, exploring world cultures, geography, and U.S. history from Reconstruction to the modern day. Students delve into the diversity of cultures in the Eastern Hemisphere, while also exploring the impact of major U.S. historical events such as the Industrial Revolution, World Wars, and the civil rights movement. A key component is the development of critical thinking skills as students examine complex historical events and cultural interactions, always grounded in the context of Christian social values such as peace, justice, and respect for human dignity.
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K - 8 Science
The Diocese of Pittsburgh’s science curriculum focuses on an inquiry-based process and fosters collaborative learning. Science education strengthens life skills, such as creative problem-solving, critical thinking, team cooperation, the use of technology, and the value of life-long learning. In alignment with this philosophy, the curriculum offers hands-on, experiential learning opportunities that integrate modern technologies and real-world applications, ensuring that students not only learn scientific concepts but also develop essential skills for the future. Science education in the diocese is also framed within Catholic philosophy, viewing scientific discovery as a reflection of God’s Wisdom and creation, and directing this knowledge to benefit humanity.
The primary goal is to produce future problem-solving citizens who understand the sacredness of life, respect for creation, and the responsibility to work for justice and peace. In science classrooms, students are encouraged to apply their knowledge and skills to overcome world challenges such as environmental degradation, unethical population control, and global inequalities, all while upholding Christian values.
The Diocese of Pittsburgh’s science curriculum not only aligns with Pennsylvania state standards but also upholds the mission of Catholic education, fostering ethical, scientifically literate students prepared to address global challenges with creativity, critical thinking, and a deep sense of responsibility toward God’s creation.Grades K-3
At the kindergarten and primary levels, students focus on exploring their natural world. They observe living and non-living things, learn about the five senses, investigate plant and animal life, and discover basic principles of force and movement. Activities are hands-on, allowing students to plant seeds, observe weather changes, and explore magnets and static electricity.Grades 3-5:
In grades 4-5, students build upon their foundational knowledge through more structured scientific investigation. They study ecosystems, food chains, energy, properties of matter, life cycles, organisms, and ecosystems, as well as participate in events such as Invention Convention, where they present their own research projects, developing their skills in scientific inquiry and communication.
Grades 6-8:
Middle school students engage with advanced scientific concepts in areas such as chemistry, physics, biology, and earth and environmental science. Students in 7th and 8th grade have the opportunity to take part in the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS), presenting research projects that apply their understanding of scientific principles.
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K - 8 Catechetical/Relgion
The Catechesis curriculum in the Diocese of Pittsburgh is designed to nurture students' spiritual, moral, and intellectual development, grounding them in the teachings of the Catholic Church. It aims to provide a deep understanding of Catholic beliefs, foster a personal relationship with Christ, and prepare students to live their faith in daily life. The curriculum progresses from a focus on foundational teachings in the early grades to a more comprehensive understanding of Church doctrine, sacraments, scripture, and moral decision-making in the upper grades.
The K-8 Religion and Catechesis curriculum in the Diocese of Pittsburgh is designed to guide students in developing a deep, personal relationship with Christ and a thorough understanding of Catholic teachings. By integrating faith with everyday life, the curriculum prepares students to live as faithful disciples, equipped to navigate the moral and ethical challenges of the world while being grounded in Catholic values.Grades K-2:
In the early grades, the focus is on fostering a sense of God’s love and introducing students to basic prayers and Catholic teachings. Students learn about creation, the life of Jesus, and the role of the Church, and are introduced to core prayers such as the Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be. They begin to understand God as the Creator and learn about Jesus’ love and His role as the Good Shepherd. Students are introduced to the saints and develop a love for prayer.
Grades 3-5:
In the intermediate grades, students dive deeper into the sacraments, particularly focusing on the Eucharist and Reconciliation. They also explore key events in the life of Christ, the liturgical year, and begin to learn about moral decision-making in light of Catholic teachings. Students also learn about the commandments and how they guide moral living.
Grades 6-8:
In the middle school years, the focus shifts to a more comprehensive study of Catholic doctrine, scripture, and moral theology. Students engage with the teachings of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, explore the lives of the saints in greater depth, and reflect on Catholic social teaching as it applies to real-world issues. At this critical age, students deepen their understanding of the sacraments, particularly Confirmation, and prepare for this sacrament of initiation. Finally, students begin an understanding of the role of the Church in the world, both historically and in contemporary society.
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