Grades six, seven, and eight comprise the middle school. This is a time for students to develop a unique sense of self, discover their relationship with God, and serve the community through numerous service projects. Religious study includes examining the Old and New Testament along with the history of the church. Students engage in daily prayer and scripture reading, attend monthly worship, and prepare for the sacrament of Confirmation. A literature-based language arts program using the study of complete novels develops vocabulary, grammar, creative writing, listening, speaking, and spelling skills. Novels serve to increase reading comprehension and motivate reading for enjoyment. Advanced math skills and pre-algebra comprise the math curriculum. Emphasis is placed on reasoning, logic, and problem solving by correlating instruction to applicaation in real life experiences. Social studies focuses on American history and current political, social, and economic issues. In music, students explore the mechanics and elements of music. They learn to communicate and express ideas through song, movement, and original composition. Students also gain an appreciation for different styles of music and study the lives of great composers. The art program provides an opportunity for self expression and creativity using a variety of media and techniques. The study of the great masters and their techniques stimulates student exploration of artistic expression. Art also is integrated throughout the curriculum as appropriate to enhance subject matter comprehension. In computer instruction, students improve keyboarding skills, design artwork, word process documents using Microsoft Word, calculate and formulate graphs using Microsoft Excel, compose presentations with Microsoft Power Point software, experiment with photo editing software, and conduct internet research. Students engage in projects designed to promote critical thinking and develop research skills using various resources. In physical education, students participate in regular physical activities promoting cardiovascular health. Students also engage in team activities which encourage cooperation and good sportsmanship at all grade levels.