The Catholic Elementary School Curriculum: Elements of Coherence

This study investigates those characteristics of the written curricula for selected diocesan elementary schools that distinguish the curricula as uniquely Catholic. Findings from the study indicate the presence of three values that serve as common themes: 1) acquiring Catholic faith knowledge; 2) engaging in Catholic faith practices; and 3) recognizing from a holistic perspective the multiple needs of students. The different approaches or “looks” of the curricula examined represent a variety of curriculum development approaches on a continuum of centralization/decentralization.