Religion

Students in Grade Seven focus on the Creed. Their curriculum challenges them to discover in a new and deeper way the uniqueness and beauty of our Catholic faith. In Grade Eight students explore the story, the people, and the events that have shaped the Catholic Church over its 2000 year history. They have the opportunity to discover a marvelous story of saints and sinners, successes and failures, and hopes and disappointments that are the fabric of our church. As we teach the "Catholic Vision of Love" Curriculum we are conscious of our responsibility to pass along the beliefs of our Catholic faith. Grade 7-8 students view and discuss the instructional videos presented by Bishop Donald Wuerl each week as part of their Religion class. 

Language Arts

Seventh and Eighth Grade students are introduced to a variety of classic literary works. They read short stories, plays, poetry, biographies, myths, folktales, non-fiction selections and novels. Students are required to complete outside reading and submit monthly book reports. The children participate in annual writing assessments from the Diocese of Pittsburgh and are evaluated using specific rubrics in the areas of focus, content, organization, style and conventions.

Mathematics

In Pre-Algebra, students reach mastery of integer operations, rates, ratios, proportions, and percents. They solve multi-step equations and relate those solutions to real world application. They begin to explore nonlinear relationships through tables and graphs. In Algebra I, students build an understanding of real numbers as they solve and graph equations, functions and inequalities. They are introduced to irrational numbers and matrices. Real world connections are integrated throughout the course.

Science

The Seventh Grade students’ study of physical science includes units on energy, motion, matter, substances, light, and sound waves and electricity. The students learn these principles by experimenting, observing and asking questions. This allows them to relate science to their everyday lives and to help them become critical thinkers and responsible decision makers. The Eighth Graders study life science which includes heredity, plants, animals, and the human body. Lab activities are used to explore living things and to promote analytical thinking.

Social Studies

The Seventh Grade curriculum is a study of United States history from the European Exploration through the Civil War. They use resources from the internet and the library with a focus on primary sources. Students participate in debates, plays and oral presentations. The Eighth Grade curriculum is a study of the United States history from 1865 and the Reconstruction to the present day. The Eighth Grade students use the internet, conduct library research and use current media sources to develop their understanding of U.S. history and present day events. Students work in cooperative groups as well as individually on projects and presentations. Grade Seven and Eight students participate in the National Geography Bee.

Fine Arts

Our Grade Seven and Eight students have the opportunity to participate in “Shared Time” classes at Brentwood Middle/High School. These students receive instruction in physical education, health, music, industrial arts, home economics and art for one or two periods each school day.