SIXTH GRADE
As students continue the transitions from elementary grades to middle school, they are given many opportunities for growth and development. In sixth grade, all students are included in special events created just for them. These special events are held throughout the school year and are intended to give the entire student body something to “work towards”. Additionally, the sixth grade is responsible for presenting our annual Christmas play.
Religion
The sixth-grade religion course of study focuses on the Old Testament and its meaning. The curriculum is designed to guide students to understand the events that preceded Jesus, and how these events lead to the fulfillment of all the Lord promised. Each unit contains Family Celebrations to give families an opportunity to grow together with their child in knowledge, good works, and prayer. The students are encouraged to respond to God's call to enter a loving relationship with God and the Church.
Language Arts
The sixth grade Language Arts curriculum provides a challenging reading program designed to develop students' abilities to comprehend text of varied genres with increasing complexity. Writing instruction includes opinion pieces, informative/explanatory pieces, and narratives. Research skills are expanded upon, as are the skills of editing and revising. Meaningful, structured discussions are one of the ways students engage in the text or topic. Students are encouraged to expand their knowledge of the topics studied through collaborative research and presentations. The use of language to acquire and convey meaning effectively is stressed in Vocabulary, Spelling, and Grammar lessons. Additionally, emphasis is placed on public speaking skills and reinforced through the production of our school Christmas play.
Math
The study of mathematics in Grade Six focuses on four critical areas: (1) using concepts of ratio and rate to solve problems; (2) completing understanding of the system of rational numbers, which includes fractions and negative numbers; (3) writing, interpreting, and using expressions and equations; and (4) developing understanding of statistical thinking. Mathematics concepts are developed in a differentiated student-centered learning environment. Students practice skills and extend their understanding to solve real-world and mathematical problems. Technology is integrated in all aspects of instruction. Math notebooks serve as a journal and resource for practice and review.
Science
The sixth-grade science course of study is Earth Science. Content covered includes the earth and its interactions in space, Earth’s history and the processes that changed it, and the oceans and atmosphere and their connections. All students will understand that Earth operates as a set of complex, dynamic, and interconnected systems, and is a part of the all-encompassing system of the universe. Students will understand the part humans play in the complex systems of Earth, as well as their responsibility to preserve and protect the resources it provides.
Social Studies
In sixth grade, students study ancient world cultures. The course focuses on the history of various civilizations while incorporating the concepts of Economics, Science and Technology, Geography, Culture, Citizenship, Government and the Arts. Concepts increase in scope and depth as students advance through the year. Interpretation and application of complex concepts are explored through hands-on experiences. Investigative and collaborative lessons provide opportunities for self and group assessment. Students continue to broaden their study of the Holocaust.
Penmanship
The sixth-grade students perform daily handwriting exercises. The students are provided with a daily story prompt or situational question focusing on everyday activities which are familiar to this age group. Students spend time each day working on a short exercise, with opportunities to continue their handwriting practice throughout the day. All students are required to write in cursive, and proper formation of letters is expected at this level.