Common Core Standards: https://iowacore.gov/iowa-core/grade/6
Religion: The 6th graders explore and study the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament). The Family Life curriculum is included in sixth grade religion.
Language: Parts of speech, grammar, and writing activities are a part of the sixth grade language class. Students complete a poetry unit, which exposes them to numerous poetic terms and complete the unit by compiling a poetry portfolio. They complete a research using Noodletools to form bibliographies (Work Cited), use note-taking skills and write outlines. Other writing activities include narratives and persuasive writing.
Literature: The sixth grade students experience both academic and recreational reading to comprehend literature, including stories, dramas, and poems independently and proficiently. They complete a number of novel units: Hatchet, The Giver, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, The Lightning Thief, Red Dog, Lyddie, and Words by Heart. They are introduced to different genres of literature, participate in story discussion circles, study vocabulary, reinforce comprehension strategies/skills, and read about current events and issues of interest.
Science: Students explore concepts in Physical, Life and Earth Science. The standards are covered using an online curriculum called Stemscopes. This curriculum helps to meet the science standards set by the State of Iowa. Scientific inquiry, problem solving and collaboration are incorporated throughout the year through developing and conducting investigations. Students also learn how to use claim, evidence, reasoning in constructing answers. Our Stemscopes curriculum supports and fosters these skills.
Social Studies: The theme of sixth grade social studies is World History. We begin the year learning about Early Civilizations and the Ancient World, progressing through the year to New Empires, the Middle Ages, and the Renaissance and Reformation. We also participate in the National History Day contest. Students will choose a topic they wish to learn about which fits the current year’s theme. They work throughout the year researching that topic and creating a project in one of five categories: Paper, Performance, Exhibit, Website, or Documentary. They have the opportunity to present that project at the Regional Level Contest with many advancing to the state level or even the national level.
Math: The Illustrative Mathematics series is a problem-based core curriculum rooted in content and practice standards to foster learning and achievement. Students learn by doing math, solving problems in mathematical and real-world contexts, and constructing arguments using precise language. Lessons are designed with a focus on independent, group, and whole-class instruction.
Special Area Classes: Physical Education, Health, Computer, Art, Music, Band (optional)