Specials

Curriculum Overview

• Algebraic Concepts: Understanding variables, equations, and functions.
• Geometry: Exploring shapes, theorems, and proofs.
• Trigonometry: Learning about angles, sine, cosine, and tangent.
• Calculus: Introduction to limits, derivatives, and integrals.
• Statistics and Probability: Analyzing data and understanding probability.

Program Goals

• Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Encourage a deep understanding of mathematical concepts.
• Prepare students for advanced math courses in high school and beyond.

Enrollment and Requirements

1. Cognitive Skills Quotient: In the 125 range (118 or higher).
2. Standardized Test Scores: 90 in Mathematics and 80 in Reading.
3. Consistent Scores: 85 or better on Archdiocesan Level Evaluations.
4. Mathematics Average: 90 or above for the year.
5. Reading Average: 85 or above
6. Periodic Evaluation: Continued participation is determined through periodic evaluations.

At Saint Anastasia School, we are dedicated to providing a comprehensive visual arts program for our K through 8th grade students that is designed to help students develop their creativity, artistic skills, and appreciation for art.

Curriculum Overview for Grades K through 3

Based on the curriculum guidelines set forth by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia Art Curriculum Committee, the art curriculum for students in Kindergarten through 3rd grade focuses on developing creativity, technical skills, and an appreciation for various art forms. Key components include:

• Art Fundamentals: Introduction to basic elements of art such as line, shape, color, texture, form, and space.

• Techniques and Media: Exploration of various materials (e.g., crayons, colored pencils, markers, paint, clay, collage) and techniques (e.g., drawing, painting, cutting and pasting, and sculpting)

• Creative Expression: Encouragement of personal expression and creativity through projects that allow students to explore their own ideas and emotions. 

• Literature based lessons: Frequent use of children’s literature as a source of inspiration for art projects. Many of the books used have an art related theme to introduce famous artists and art history at an early elementary level.

• Integration with other subjects: Connections to concepts explored in other subject areas such as religion, social studies, math, and science with projects based on the seasons of the year, holy days and feast days, holidays, nature, and early concepts in geometry, including different types of lines and shapes.

• Fostering good stewardship of art materials: Many projects incorporate the use of recycled/upcycled materials to nurture creative expression while teaching good stewardship of our environment.

The curriculum for K-3rd grades is designed to be hands-on and engaging, promoting a love for art while developing foundational skills.

Note: Students in grades K through 3rd do not receive a grade for art on their report cards.

Curriculum Overview for Grades 4 through 8

The upper elementary and middle school art curriculum builds on the foundational skills developed in the early elementary grades while introducing more advanced concepts and techniques. Key components include:

• Art Techniques and Media: Exploration of various media (e.g. drawing, painting, sculpture) and more advanced techniques, allowing students to experiment and refine their skills.

• Elements and Principles of Design: Deeper understanding of the elements of art (line, shape, color, value, form, space, texture) and principles of design (balance, contrast, emphasis, movement, pattern, rhythm, proportion) encouraging thoughtful composition.

• Art History and Cultural Context: Study of significant artists, movements, and cultural influences in art history, fostering appreciation for the diversity of artistic expression and its evolution over time.

• Creative Problem Solving: Projects that challenge students to think critically and solve problems creatively, often encouraging unique interpretations and personal narratives in their artwork.

•  Interdisciplinary Projects: Opportunities for students to engage in projects that connect art to other subjects (e.g. social studies, science, math, and literature), promoting a holistic understanding of creativity. 

• Portfolio Development: Encouragement to create a personal portfolio that showcases students’ growth and exploration in art, which can be valuable for future studies or applications.

The upper elementary/middle school art curriculum is designed to be engaging and relevant, helping students develop their artistic voice while fostering a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

Note: Students in grades 4 through 8 receive a grade for art on their report card. Students in these grades are responsible for completing all assignments and for making up any missed assignments due to absence.

For more information regarding our visual arts program please contact Mrs. Theresa Quigley at [email protected].

Curriculum Overview

• General Music: Students learn fundamental music concepts such as rhythm, melody, harmony, and musical notation. Activities include pitch exploration, beat movement activities, singing, playing instruments, and movement exercises. Students in the upper grades learn skills on ukuleles.
• Choral Music: Students in grades 4-8 have the opportunity to join our choral music program. There are performances during the Christmas and Spring concerts.
• Music Appreciation: Students explore different musical genres, periods, and cultures to broaden their understanding and appreciation of music.
• Religious Music: Students learn and perform religious music as part of our commitment to integrating faith and learning, enhancing their spiritual and musical development.

Program Highlights

• Hands-On Learning: Students engage in hands-on activities with percussion instruments, such as boomwhackers, handbells, rhythm sticks, and movement scarves and parachutes.
• Performance Opportunities: Regular performances, including choir concerts, the 3rd grade musical, and singing at school masses, provide students with the chance to showcase their musical talents and gain confidence.
• Music Technology: Students learn about music technology, including basic music literacy and the use of applications like GarageBand and Soundtrap to create and manipulate music.
• Project-Based Learning: Students complete composition projects, poster projects, technology-based projects, and performance-based projects to apply their musical knowledge in creative ways.
• 3rd Grade Musical: Students participate in the annual 3rd grade winter musical, showcasing their talents in singing and acting. Students rehearse in class for months in preparation for their show.

Curriculum

MY PHLOSOPHY

Objectives

• Introduce students to the language and culture of the Spanish-speaking world
• Compose written phrases and sentences in the Spanish language
• Develop vocabulary
• Apply basic skills of listening, speaking, reading, vocabulary, and writing in a variety of life situations

Enduring Understandings

• Proficiency in a foreign language is a vehicle to gaining knowledge that can only be acquired through that language and its culture.
• The study of a foreign language enables students to develop insights into the nature of language and culture.
• Learning a foreign language enables an individual to participate in multilingual communities

Any questions, please contact Senora Adriana at [email protected]

• Introduction to Computers: Basic computer skills, including typing, mouse usage, and understanding basic software applications.
• Digital Citizenship: Safe and responsible use of technology, including internet safety and etiquette.
• Creative Projects: Using educational software to create digital art, stories, and simple projects.

• Basic Programming: Introduction to coding through age-appropriate platforms like Scratch Jr and Kodable.
• Research Skills: Using the internet for research projects, understanding how to evaluate sources for credibility.
• Multimedia Projects: Creating presentations, videos, and digital storytelling projects.

• Digital Design: Introduction to graphic design, animation, and video editing.
• Multimedia Projects: Creating advanced multimedia presentations, videos, podcasts, and digital storytelling projects.
• STEM Integration: Incorporating technology into science, technology, engineering, and math projects, including robotics and 3D printing.

Welcome to St. Anastasia Library
At St. Anastasia Library, we are dedicated to fostering a love of reading and learning in our students. Our library is a vibrant hub of knowledge and creativity, providing resources and programs that support the academic and personal growth of our students.

Library Services
Book Lending:   Students can borrow books from our extensive collection, which includes fiction, non-fiction, and reference materials.   Students from Kindergarten to Eighth Grade are allowed to borrow books to bring home for a week or two.
Research Assistance: Our librarian is available to help students with research projects and finding the right resources.
Technology Access:  The library is equipped with desktop computers, Chromebooks, iPads and internet access for research and study purposes.

Reading Olympics
The Reading Olympics is an exciting event that encourages students to read a wide variety of books and engage in friendly competition. Teams of students read from a selected list of books and then compete in a quiz-style format to test their knowledge and comprehension. This event promotes teamwork, a love of reading, and enhances students' critical thinking skills. We are proud of our students' enthusiasm and dedication to this annual event.

Renaissance STAR Reading
Renaissance STAR Reading is a comprehensive assessment tool that helps us monitor and support our students' reading progress. This evidence-based program provides valuable insights into students' reading abilities, helping teachers tailor instruction to meet individual needs. STAR Reading assessments are used for universal screening, progress monitoring, and goal setting, ensuring that every student is on the path to reading success.

Accelerated Reader (AR) Quiz
The Accelerated Reader (AR) program is designed to encourage students to read independently and improve their comprehension skills. After finishing a book, students can take an AR quiz to test their understanding of the material. These quizzes provide immediate feedback and help teachers track students' reading progress. Students are encouraged to take quizzes within 24 hours of completing a book to ensure the best results.
 
Sketch Large 3D Printer
Our library is equipped with a state-of-the-art Sketch Large 3D printer, providing students with the opportunity to bring their creative ideas to life. This cutting-edge technology allows students to design and print three-dimensional objects, enhancing their learning experience in subjects such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The 3D printer is a fantastic tool for fostering innovation, problem-solving, and hands-on learning.

Pennsylvania K'NEX STEM Design Challenge
The Pennsylvania K'NEX STEM Design Challenge is an exciting opportunity for our students to showcase their creativity and engineering skills. In this challenge, students work in teams to design and build innovative structures using K'NEX building sets. The competition emphasizes problem-solving, teamwork, and the application of STEM concepts. Our students have consistently demonstrated their ingenuity and enthusiasm in this challenge, making us proud of their achievements.

Student Calming Corner
We understand the importance of mental well-being and have created a Student Calming Corner within our library. This peaceful space is designed to help students relax and unwind. It features comfortable seating, calming activities such as coloring books and puzzles, and a selection of mindfulness and relaxation books. The Calming Corner is a safe haven where students can take a break, manage stress, and return to their studies feeling refreshed and focused.

Educational Robots
Our library is equipped with a variety of educational robots, including Ozobot, SPHERO Bolt, Mini, and Indi robots. These interactive tools provide students with hands-on experience in coding, robotics, and problem-solving. By engaging with these robots, students can develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of technology in a fun and interactive way.

3D Pens
In addition to our 3D printer, we also offer 3D pens that allow students to create three-dimensional objects by drawing in the air. These pens are a fantastic tool for fostering creativity and spatial awareness. Students can bring their ideas to life in a tangible form, enhancing their learning experience in art, design, and engineering.

Book Fairs:   Join us for our annual book fair in early December and our BOGO book fair in June. A great opportunity to discover new books and support our library.

Support Our Library
We welcome donations of new or gently used books. Your support helps us expand our collection and offer more resources to our students.