The New Saint Joseph Baltimore Catechism No. 1, No. 2, and First Communion Catechism

Religious_studiesAll Grades

The New Saint Joseph Baltimore Catechism: Traditional Q&A Format with Scripture

This is a traditional Catholic religious studies curriculum based on the 1885 Baltimore Catechism, featuring question-and-answer format enhanced with Scripture verses, discussion questions, and illustrations. The curriculum includes three levels: First Communion preparation, elementary (No. 1), and middle school (No. 2) covering the Creed, Commandments, and Sacraments.

Best for

Catholic homeschooling families seeking traditional catechetical instruction for grades 2-8, particularly those who value memorization-based learning and systematic doctrinal knowledge building

Evaluation Criteria

2 strengths · 1 concern · 2 neutral · 1 insufficient evidence

Direct InstructionStrength

The curriculum supports direct instruction through its structured question-and-answer format, discussion questions, and fill-in-the-blank activities that facilitate guided practice.

Includes 'discussion questions, a fill-in-the-blank section' and reviewer describes daily review process with memorization and discussion of application

Theological KnowledgeStrength

The curriculum builds systematic Catholic doctrinal knowledge through the traditional three-part structure of Creed, Commandments, and Sacraments with progressive depth across grade levels.

Content is 'divided into three parts: The Creed, The Commandments, and The Sacraments and Prayer' with 'more in-depth' lessons in the advanced level, providing 'basic Catholic doctrinal foundation'

Historical ContextConcern

Limited historical context is provided, as the curriculum focuses primarily on doctrinal content rather than historical development of Catholic teaching.

Based on the 1885 Baltimore Catechism but review emphasizes doctrinal memorization and application rather than historical context of teachings

Vocabulary BuildingNeutral

Religious vocabulary is embedded within the question-and-answer format, though explicit vocabulary instruction is not specifically mentioned.

Traditional catechism format inherently includes theological terms, but review does not mention specific vocabulary development strategies beyond the Q&A structure

Primary Text EngagementNeutral

The curriculum incorporates Holy Scripture with each lesson and includes suggested Bible readings, though the primary focus is on catechism questions rather than extended scriptural study.

Review notes 'incorporates Holy Scripture with each lesson' and includes 'suggested Bible readings at the end of each lesson' with Scripture verses copied for memorization

Teacher TrainingInsufficient Evidence

No specific teacher training materials or professional development resources are mentioned in the available information.

Review focuses on student materials and does not reference teacher guides, background information, or instructional support

Sources: cathyduffyreviews.com