In the intermediate grades (4, 5, 6), classroom teachers meet archdiocesan and state curriculum standards in the subjects of English, spelling, mathematics, science, social studies, reading, and religion.  Specialists teach art, physical education, music, and computers (although classroom teachers and the computer specialist work together on curriculum and lesson design).  There is ability grouping in the subjects of mathematics and reading, where research has shown grouping can benefit student learning.  In the 5^th and 6^th grades, students are introduced to a departmental schedule, in which the teachers focus primarily on their specialized subjects; this not only contributes to more effective teaching and learning, but also helps prepare students for junior high.  Opportunities for field trips and guest speakers increase in the intermediate grades, enhancing student learning.  Students also have greater opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities and competitions, such as operetta, math contests, the archdiocesan spelling bee, geography bee, and speech.