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Academic Departments
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Religion |
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The Academy’s religion program draws its spirit and context from the Armenian Christian tradition. Children learn to open their hearts to God and to others through prayer and contemplation. Through the study and analysis of the Scriptures, children expand their intellectual understanding of Christianity and deepen their spiritual awareness of God’s love. |
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Armenian |
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In keeping with the mission of the Armenian Sisters of the Immaculate Conception to preserve and perpetuate the Armenian identity, students are immersed in Armenian conversation, reading, writing, grammar, spelling, penmanship and singing. They explore Armenian history, poetry and literature, and participate in the celebration of cultural events. |
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French |
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The study of French in the 7th and 8th grades provides students an opportunity to use their language skills in the acquisition of a third language. Emphasis is placed on conversation. Students also learn to read and write in French to prepare them for further work in high school. |
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Language Arts |
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The art and skill of communication form the basis for the Academy’s reading and language arts program. A deep appreciation for literature is fostered through exposure to various types of literature with required reading and analysis. Our language arts program is cross disciplinary and seeks to build the students’ basic skills in all areas of communication—listening, speaking, reading, writing and thinking. The language arts program encompasses the study of grammar rules, vocabulary, spelling, handwriting, creative writing, poetry and literature.
The Academy firmly believes that the capacity to communicate clearly is the primary means toward success in social and intellectual environments. Students at all levels are given ongoing opportunities to organize and develop their ideas in stories, essays, poems, or plays. Students also regularly present their written work to peers, to the student body during assemblies, and to parents and invited guests on special occasions. |
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Mathematics |
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Mathematics begins with an awareness of spatial, temporal and numerical patterns and relationships that exist in the natural world. An integration of practical and abstract work in arithmetic, problem-solving, geometry and algebra provides a solid foundation from which children can advance to more complex work in mathematics. |
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Science |
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Science as an exacting field of knowledge is presented through an integration of classroom study, research and experimentation, encouraging the student’s desire for discovery. The science curriculum covers selected aspects of physical, earth and biological sciences and provides supplementary laboratory experiences. |
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Social Studies |
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The social studies program explores the geographic, social and economic aspects of the world. Students gain new insights into their communities and connections to the larger world. Literature, biographies and lessons about real families introduce young learners to people and events in other times and places. History in the upper grades spans the time period from prehistoric man to World War II. |
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Health / Physical Education |
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The physical education program gives each student the opportunity to learn about and take part in a variety of rhythmic, natural play, team, individual recreation and physical fitness activities. The curriculum places emphasis on teamwork, sportsmanship and skills acquisition. The skills and experiences gained in physical education classes are readily transferable to leisure time and other extracurricular activities.
The health education curriculum is a multifaceted program which addresses the mental, physical, social, emotional and spiritual aspects of health. Specific areas of study include physiology, personal health and hygiene, conflict resolution, drug education and coping with stress. CPR and first aid are taught to upper grade students. |
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Art |
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The art program is designed to meet the developmental and creative needs of students at all levels. Students explore techniques of drawing, painting and designing. They are also introduced to art history. The instructor encourages creativity and freedom of expression in combination with the acquisition of technical skills in art. |
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Music |
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The Academy’s multicultural music program instills students with extensive knowledge and deep appreciation for all music. Students achieve a proficiency in reading music, playing class instruments with confidence, becoming a discerning music listener, and most significantly, singing with skill and passion. The music program highlights Armenian song and dance, and preparation for special cultural events. |
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Co-curricular Cultural Enrichment |
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At the Academy are not merely secondary or optional activities. Here, the arts are an integral aspect of learning and are employed to enhance understanding and creative expression in all disciplines. Students gain insight into the past through reenactment and dramatization off historical events. Students learn to enjoy the beauty and power of the spoken word through poetry writing and recitation. They develop a fluency in both English and Armenian through engagement in bilingual music and dramatic performances. Dance and music are also physical ways to understand mathematical relations and principles. Students learn discipline and perseverance through rehearsal and practice for performances given throughout the year. Most importantly, students gain self-confidence and a sense of satisfaction from performing to their highest potential. |
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Computer |
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The computer program provides students with basic computer literacy, programming and word processing skills. In addition, students learn how to apply the use of the computer to study in other
disciplinary areas such as mathematics, English, social studies, science, French and Armenian. Students also learn how to effectively use the Internet for their research projects and term reports. |
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Outside Resources |
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In addition to the academic programs provided by the Academy, the school offers a variety of academic services provided by Montgomery County Intermediate Unit Professionals including a nurse, guidance counselor, speech therapist, and reading and math specialist. |
