Upper Elementary: Grades 3-5

At St. Anthony School, we combine rigorous academics with faith and character formation, guiding students from Kindergarten through Grade 8 to grow as confident learners, compassionate leaders, and lifelong thinkers. Our curriculum meets the Hawaii Catholic Schools Curriculum Standards and is designed to nurture, inspire, and enrich a culture guided by faith. Through our programs, students develop curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of learning, while growing in empathy, integrity, and a strong sense of community.

Grades 3–5

English Language Arts (HMH Into Reading)
In Grades 3–5, students deepen their literacy skills through HMH Into Reading, a research-based program that builds strong, independent readers and effective communicators. As texts become richer and more complex, students strengthen their comprehension, vocabulary, writing, and critical-thinking skills through meaningful reading experiences across a variety of genres. Lessons encourage students to analyze, discuss, and respond to literature and informational texts, helping them develop confidence as thoughtful readers and writers. With engaging stories, purposeful skill-building, and targeted support, HMH Into Reading equips students in Grades 3–5 with the literacy tools they need for academic success and a lifelong love of reading.

Vocabulary (Wordly Wise, Grades 4–5)
Worldy Wise is another curriculum resource used to further develop vocabulary, comprehension and critical thinking skills.

Math (McGraw Hill Reveal Math)
This coherent, vertically aligned K–12 core math solution will help uncover the mathematician in every student through productive struggle, rich tasks, inquiry opportunities, and mathematical discourse. Students in Grades 3–5 continue to build fluency in multiplication, division, fractions, decimals, and geometry.

Science (TCI Bring Science Alive!)

  • 3rd Grade – Motion, Forces, and Energy: Students investigate how objects move and interact through hands-on experiments with motion, forces, and energy. They explore concepts such as speed, friction, gravity, and energy transfer, learning to make observations, ask questions, and draw evidence-based conclusions.

  • 4th Grade – Rocks, Minerals, and the Earth: Students study the composition and characteristics of rocks and minerals, the structure of the Earth, and natural processes such as weathering and erosion. Through experiments, observations, and interactive activities, they develop an understanding of Earth’s systems and the dynamic forces that shape our planet.

  • 5th Grade – Ecosystems and the Environment: Students examine ecosystems, the relationships between living organisms, and how humans impact the environment. They engage in investigations of habitats, food webs, and environmental stewardship, learning to apply scientific reasoning to real-world problems.

Social Studies (TCI / Social Studies Alive!)
Students explore communities, cultures, geography, and history from their local neighborhood to the broader world, developing critical thinking, civic awareness, and an appreciation for diverse perspectives.

  • 3rd Grade – Our Community and Beyond: Students explore communities and regions of the U.S., learning about local government, culture, and civic responsibilities. Hands-on activities, collaborative projects, and interactive lessons help students understand how communities function and how individuals can positively contribute to society.

  • 4th Grade – Regions of Our Country: Students study Hawaiian culture and history alongside U.S. geography, traditions, and regional characteristics. Through research, map work, and class discussions, students develop an appreciation for cultural diversity and learn to make connections between local and national communities.

  • 5th Grade – America’s Past: Students investigate U.S. history from early exploration through the American Revolution, examining colonial life, economic and cultural exchanges, and hemispheric connections. Engaging projects, primary sources, and critical thinking exercises help students understand how historical events shaped the nation and influence the world today.

Scholastic Magazines (Grades K–5)
Students engage with age-appropriate nonfiction and fiction texts that strengthen reading comprehension, vocabulary, and critical thinking skills. These magazines complement the overall curriculum by promoting global awareness, cultural understanding, and curiosity about the world, helping students make connections between what they read and the communities, people, and ideas around them.

Religion (Benziger “Be My Disciples,” Grades 4–5)
Students continue their faith formation through Be My Disciples, exploring Catholic teachings, Scripture, and moral decision-making. The program encourages reflection on personal values, prayer, and service, helping students apply their faith in everyday life. Through discussions, projects, and community activities, students develop a deeper understanding of their beliefs while growing in empathy, responsibility, and spiritual awareness.

FRIENDZY Character Development (Grades K–8)
Students explore empathy, respect, integrity, and responsible decision-making through FRIENDZY Character Development. The program encourages meaningful reflection, positive interactions, and practical application of character skills in daily life. By engaging in discussions, role-playing, and collaborative activities, students learn to navigate social situations, build strong relationships, and contribute positively to their school and community.

St. Anthony School Kailua, Hawaii