Grades 1-5

Lower School is a place where creativity flows boundlessly with imagination, vibrancy, and confidence. Students grow artistically through a Disciplined Based Art approach; elements and principles of art are taught in combination with art history and technical skill development. The works of Cassatt, Homer, Matisse, Monet, O’Keeffe, Picasso, and Van Gogh, and others are introduced. Book readings, print and movie visuals, artists’ biographies, and technique demonstrations intertwine with each topical art lesson. Students enjoy drawing, painting, printmaking, pastels, and clay in a designated Lower School Art room. While every project includes a variety of goals, the students' artistic interpretations are always distinctive and delightful. Their work demonstrates an understanding of line, color, texture, emotion, and art appreciation. 

The main objective of our foreign language program is to develop oral and auditory skills while presenting a fun setting where learning French is exciting and part of our Sacred Heart heritage. Lessons are constructed to help students develop an ear for the language and to engage in conversation using the introduced structures and vocabulary. During class, students use visual aids, write stories, perform skits, and sing songs to reinforce and learn the language of French while learning to appreciate another culture.

The Language Arts program emphasizes the strong link between reading and writing. Substantial reading and writing propel our students to be proficient readers who develop independent analytical minds. Our program incorporates the following elements: a phonics and word identification program for decoding, comprehension strategy and reading skills instruction, discussion of various genres of literature, independent and oral reading, teacher and student read-aloud time, and creative and purposeful writing efforts.

Spelling, vocabulary, handwriting, grammar, and the mechanics of writing are incorporated into daily lessons through large and small group instruction and writing activities. Vocabulary and challenging spelling words are taken from the readings to build vocabulary knowledge while helping the students recognize the connection between the reading and writing activities. Spelling and grammar rules are examined, and students apply these skills to their writing assignments. 

The D'Nealian handwriting program provides a smooth transition from the manuscript in grades one and two to cursive in grades three and four.

The SHA Mathematics program is based on the premise that young children gain a better understanding of math if they move from the concrete, to symbolic, to the abstract when exploring math concepts. Using a variety of manipulatives, our students gain an intuitive understanding of math and can apply these skills to situations in their daily lives. A strong emphasis is placed on problem-solving and the retention of the basic facts. Enrichment activities help students with critical thinking processes. Having a strong foundation in the basic math principles helps our students to move on to more difficult concepts with ease.

Through repeated practice in the classroom, our students strengthen their addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and problem-solving skills.

Having a strong foundation in the basic math principles helps our students to move on to more difficult concepts with ease.

Students learn a wide variety of songs that are geared toward their interest and ability level through creating and performing music. Attention is given to accurate pitch production and singing accompanied by movement. Instruction of melody, harmony, rhythm, form, and music reading are the components of music classes. Musical activities develop vocal ability (accurate pitch production) with the introduction of syncopated rhythms and simple parts of singing.

In Grades 1-2, students work to further develop fundamental skills that will lead them into playing team sports. A strong emphasis is placed on safety, cooperation, and knowing the value of fair play. The concept of teamwork and resolving conflict are introduced.

During Grades 3-5, students are exposed to field hockey, basketball, paddleball, and soccer as team sports. Emphasis is placed on skill improvement, field positions, and concepts of the game. The goal is to build skills and knowledge to prepare students for our middle school teams. Continued emphasis is placed on safety and sportsmanship.

Public speaking is emphasized throughout the curriculum. Beginning in Kindergarten, students are encouraged to practice speaking to an audience and to develop effective oral communication skills. Weekly presentations help students learn to present their ideas in an organized and logical sequence, improve their verbal and non-verbal communication skills, and become confident speakers.

Each year, Kindergarten through grade four participate in Women of Achievement assemblies. Each student selects a woman who they are inspired by and who has made an impact on society. She then completes research and prepares an oral report to present to the lower school students and guests. These assemblies are always a highlight of the year and help our students captivate an audience while practicing their research and oral presentation skills.

A commitment to personal and active faith in God is an integral part of the Lower School. Our educators make known the love of God revealed in the Heart of Christ. Roman Catholic Doctrine is taught. 

The SHA Religion curriculum, along with a selection of spiritual resources, are used during instruction. Classes focus on developing a sense of God who cherishes each of “His children." Students learn that God’s love is transforming and powerful, and to follow in His footsteps of love, care, and concern for others and the world.

Grade two prepares for and receives the sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Holy Eucharist. Prayer services, communion services, reflection time, service activities, and First Friday liturgies encourage spirituality among members of the Sacred Heart community.

Second and sixth grade Sacrament Buddies work together several times a year building special bonds as they support and encourage each other during their sacramental preparation. Service and community-building activities reinforce Goal One: Schools of the Sacred Heart commit themselves to personal and active faith in God.

Our young science students learn through inquiry-based discovery. They observe objects and events, think critically, investigate and test ideas in logical ways, and generate explanations that integrate the new information. Students gain proficiency in the natural and designed worlds and apply newly acquired knowledge to solve real-world problems, just as a career scientist would. 

Students actively learn through investigations that engage and lead to a deeper understanding of the world around them while experiencing an inquiry-based approach like real-world engineers.

The curriculum is designed using FOSS (Full Option Science System) in alignment with NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards). Hands-on lessons explore Life Science and Physical Science. 

Project-based topics include American history, Pennsylvania, and the study of local and global communities, neighborhoods, and families. Cultures are explored through seasonal activities and projects. Field trips, books, songs, and presentations boost the curriculum and bring concepts to life. 

Each year, Kindergarten through grade four participate in Women of Achievement assemblies. Each student selects a woman who they are inspired by and who has made an impact on society. She then completes research and prepares an oral report to present to the lower school students and guests. These assemblies are always a highlight of the year and help our students captivate an audience while practicing their research and oral presentation skills.