Curriculum
The Archdiocese of Baltimore Curriculum is designed to prepare students to be Catholic, College, and Career Ready. Each course of study fosters students' Catholic identity, shaping them to be models of Christian living for others. We provide students with a curriculum that is rigorous and rich in various disciplines. By continuing to implement new standards that are challenging, we work to fulfill the promise of quality Catholic education that educates the whole child: mind, body, and soul.
Operating under the auspices of the Archdiocese of Baltimore Department of Catholic Schools, Our Lady of Mount Carmel School follows the Course of Study developed by this educational entity. This curriculum meets and exceeds the curriculum requirements for the Maryland State Department of Education. The Archdiocese of Baltimore periodically reviews and updates curriculum. Please read the Archdiocesan Statement on Curriculum Revisions that explains the process and the value of these periodic updates.
It is our ministry as Catholic educators to embody our faith in everything we do. We model and teach children how to form a personal relationship with Jesus and build a foundation for life-long learning and discipleship.
Our middle school program is designed to support adolescents as they transition from 6th through 8th grade into high school. To do this, we tend to young men and women academically, spiritually, socially, and emotionally as they move from childhood to young adulthood. Academics are a priority at Our Lady of Mount Carmel and students are taught the skills they need to succeed and are inspired to develop a work ethic that will support their goals. They are encouraged to always strive for excellence and develop good character and integrity along the way. Our small school provides a nurturing and safe place for students to attempt new things and grow in confidence. Students thrive in an atmosphere where respect for self, others, and the community is an expectation and a standard. Our students, challenged to work for justice through service, are taught to be leaders who base decisions on Gospel values and have a desire to improve their community.
Quick Facts
Adolescence is a time of dynamic change. At Our Lady of Mount Carmel, we understand these complex changes and address the development of the whole person. Middle schoolers are especially inquisitive during this stage. In response, Our Lady of Mount Carmel provides an environment where learning is comprehensive and interactive. This total educational experience goes from the classroom, to prayer services, to extracurricular events. There are many exciting opportunities for growth and exploration as students develop a sense of self and service. Some highlights in the middle school program include:
- cutting-edge technology which supports the curriculum
- hands-on learning
- foreign language program
- interdisciplinary units
- development of leadership and service
- advisor groups
- student government
- activity groups
- respect of individual talents
- opportunities to develop social skills
Language Arts
Middle school language arts includes a literature-based reading program. Different types of prose and poetry are studied in order to develop an understanding of and appreciation for literature. Communication skills evolve through diverse writing and speaking activities. The program incorporates vocabulary, spelling, public speaking, and grammar into individual and group situations.
Social Studies
The social studies curriculum is composed of world history, U.S. history, and U.S. government. Eighth graders study U.S. history, geography, and civics. Historical facts and their relevance to current events are explored. Text materials, maps, periodicals, and manipulative materials are utilized.
Mathematics
Instruction in middle school math ensures that all students will have experience with algebra by eighth grade. Emphasis is placed on computational skills, concepts and problem solving using a variety of teaching strategies and materials.
Science
Science at the middle school level is taught using a combination of lectures, labs, cooperative learning activities, and individual projects. Earth science is the focus of the eighth-grade curriculum.
Foreign Language
All students take Spanish during their time in middle school. Cultural understanding is a focus of the curriculum. Reading, writing, and grammar skills are developed while expanding comprehension and conversational skills.
Religion
Religion incorporates classroom study, liturgies, and prayer services, reception of sacraments, and outreach programs. The middle school curriculum integrates the study of the history of the Church, the life and teachings of Jesus, and Bible study. Religion is taught not merely as a subject, but as a way of life.
Electives
STEM, Art, Music, and Dance classes are offered as semester courses much like they are in a high school setting. This model allows all students the opportunity to experience several electives in a given school year.