Course Guide
Sixth Grade Science Course Syllabus
Teachers: Ms. Allison and Mr. Sinnett
Course Description:
Sixth grade science is a yearlong exploration of life, earth and physical science including earth’s weather and atmosphere, simple machines, plants and animals. These topics will be explored through the enduring ideas of problem solving, the relationships between and among the natural world, and the driving force of energy. An essential component that students will be introduced to this year is the Engineering Design Process (EDP) which will be used in conjunction with the Scientific Method. Engineering is a component of Next Generation Science Standards which have been integrated into the current State Science Standards. In each unit, students will participate in Project or Problem-Based Learning (PBL) which is using real-world scenarios that require them to utilize the information from the state standards to address a problem and create a solution. This is a research supported method of instruction that blends science, technology, engineering and math, enhances problem-solving and critical thinking skills, as well increase motivation and personal responsibility for learning. Attendance is vital.
Instructional Philosophy:
We must motivate our students to question and explore their world. This year, 6th grade science will be focused on STEAM integration and PBL. Students will be expected to be engaged in learning at all times. Assignments will require students to work in collaborative groups and use academic skills from other subjects, such as math and language arts.
Tentative Course Outline:
1st Quarter
o Science and Engineering Practices
o Energy Transfer and Conservation
o Electricity & Magnetism
o Work & Simple Machines
3rd Quarter
o Science and Engineering Practices
o Diversity of Life- Classification
o Animals and adaptations
2nd Quarter
o Science and Engineering Practices
o Atmosphere
o Weather
4th Quarter
o Science and Engineering Practices
o Diversity of Life- Protists, Fungi, and Plants
o Review for PASS
Class Expectations:
1) Be prepared.
2) Be responsible.
3) Be respectful.
4) Be engaged.
*Discipline will be maintained in accordance with GMA and district policy. Please review your child’s planner daily as well as their team expectation card or ask them about their class dojo status. Please make sure you and your child have read the student handbook.
Makeup Work/Late Assignments:
It is the student’s responsibility to retrieve all makeup work from the teacher in a timely manner. All assignments not turned in on the date they are due are subject to the district policy. Please review district policies located in your student handbook.
Use of Electronic Devices:
We will use multiple technologies to enhance your child’s classroom learning experience. It is highly likely that your child’s teacher will use their personal smart phone for educational purposes. Also, for the same reason your child may be asked to bring a personal electronic device (PED) for use in the science classroom. Students must adhere to district electronic device policies and ask for teacher permission before using their PED.
Grading and Assessment Plan:
A=100-90
B=89-80
C=79-70
D=69-60
F=59-50
Test and Projects: 50%
Class Work 20% and Participation 20%
(activities, labs, power ups and downs, and discussions)
Homework: 5%
Quizzes: 5%
*Assessment methods will include: unit tests, classwork, scientific investigations (labs), quizzes, collaborative projects, benchmark tests, ISN checks, and homework.
Major Course Assignments and Projects:
Required Textbook: Students will be given a username and login for their DiscoveryEd Techbook which is online.
Projects: Students will be required to complete one major project during each quarter for a total of four science projects per school year. These projects will allow students to demonstrate mastery of sixth grade science skills and content. *This will include approximately 3 tests and/or projects per nine weeks
Unit Tests: Students will be given unit tests every two to three weeks. This will allow students to focus on smaller chunks of content information at one time. Scientific inquiry skills will be practiced and assessed throughout the entire year. District benchmarks will be given to monitor student progress throughout the year.
Quizzes: Students will be given quizzes every week. This is a way for students to practice for the unit tests and gage their mastery of the science skills and content. *At least 3 quizzes per nine weeks
Classwork: Assignments will include daily Test Taking Strategies (TTS), science journals (ISN), group and individual work and informal laboratory activities. *Minimum of 10 assignments per nine weeks
Homework: Students will receive weekly homework assignments on Mondays. Homework is due on Friday when class begins. This will allow students to plan their week accordingly in order to complete homework by Friday. *Minimum of 9 assignments per nine weeks
Open Door Policy:
Should your child need a place to work or assistance on an assignment please feel free to have them stop by the 6th grade hall or email their science teacher. Understand that we will make every effort possible to assist all students in need. Time can be a limitation so please try to schedule a time with their teacher before or after school.