Choice Classes

6th Grade Choice Class Showcase

Take a look at our Choice Class Showcase to learn a little more about options for 6th grade!

In addition to mandatory classes, 6th grade students will have two additional periods of electives (they can be a combination of full year and semester classes) on their schedule.

Click on the subject area below to read each class description. Be sure to click the link at the end of each description to watch helpful videos about many of our Choice classes.

Computer, Technology & Engineering Classes

Computer Science (semester)
This combined, hands-on course allows students to explore and blend the world of Engineering and Computer Science! Students learn about programming for the physical world by blending hardware design and software development. Using microcontrollers with inputs and outputs, they develop code that brings their physical designs to life! Students also explore electricity, the behavior and parts of atoms, and sensing devices. They learn basic circuitry design and examine the impact of electricity on the world around them. This course is being offered in partnership with Project Lead the Way.

Engineering: Design & Modeling (semester)
Engineering Design and Modeling (EDM) provides students opportunities to apply the design process to creatively solve problems. Students are introduced to the unit problem in the first activity and are asked to make connections to the problem throughout the lessons in the unit. Students learn and utilize methods for communicating design ideas through sketches, solid models, and mathematical models. Students will understand how models can be simulated to represent an authentic situation and generate data for further analysis and observations. Students work in teams to identify design requirements, research the topic, and engage stakeholders. Teams design a toy or game for a child with cerebral palsy, fabricate and test it, and make necessary modifications to optimize the design solution. This course is being offered in partnership with Project Lead the Way.

Music Classes

6th Grade Band (full year)
Cadet Band is open to any sixth grade student who would like to learn to play a band instrument, and who has scheduled an instrument fitting appointment with a member of the Wydown band Staff. These fittings typically take place in January and February of the student's 5th grade year, but may also be scheduled on an individual basis prior to the start of the 6th grade school year. Along with proper assembly and care, Cadet Band students will learn how to play with proper technique and sound on one of the following instruments: Flute, Oboe, Bassoon, Clarinet, Trumpet, Horn, Trombone, Baritone and Tuba. The instructors will determine a limited number of positions for those interested in Saxophone or Percussion through a screening process during the spring of the 5th grade year. The cadet band typically performs 3 evening concerts during the school year and participates in one Saturday festival trip during the month of April. No previous experience is necessary to be a member of the Cadet Band, but those who have experience are also welcome. A delayed entry/skill enhancement option for second semester may be available by request on a case by case basis for those who missed the initial opportunity. For a video overview, click here

Chorus (full year)
Chorus is an introductory vocal music ensemble for students who have a passion for singing. Members of the Chorus will learn fundamental music theory, sight-singing, and choral performance skills. Students will perform a wide variety of music in at least two evening concerts during the year. For a direct link to our Choir department webpage, click here. For a video overview, click here.

6th Grade Orchestra (full year)
6th Grade Orchestra is made up of students of all experience levels, beginning through advanced. Members of this ensemble will increase individual performance skills, and participate in small and large group ensembles. 6th Grade Orchestra is a performance class which presents several concerts throughout the year. For a video overview, click here

Theatre Classes

Musical Theatre 6 (semester)
This course is designed for students interested in developing the performance skills necessary to bring a live musical theatre production to the stage. Students will explore key aspects of musical theatre, including acting, singing, movement, and more, working collaboratively as an ensemble. The emphasis on teamwork and collective effort is central to the course philosophy, reflecting the collaborative spirit of the theatre department as a whole. The class culminates in a required public performance at the end of the semester. Past productions include Seussical Kids, Finding Nemo Kids, The Lion King Kids, and others. All class members will be in the cast of the show. The title of the upcoming production will be announced at the end of the school year. For a digital slide deck, click here, for a video overview, click here.

Drama 6 (semester)
This course is designed for students with an interest in theatre, whether or not they have prior theatrical experience. It is ideal for those who thrive in a fast-paced environment with a wide variety of activities. Topics covered include an introduction to the stage, basic voice techniques, physical movement, character creation, and more. Students will explore the art of acting, developing both an appreciation for the craft and an understanding of how different acting techniques can enhance self-awareness and personal growth. Through hands-on exercises and performance, students will gain tools for expression, creativity, and self-realization. For a digital slide deck, click here For a video overview, click here

Visual Art Classes

Visual Arts 6 (semester)
Exercise your creativity muscles and discover what your imagination can do! This course provides students with the time and space to explore a variety of art materials and develop art-making techniques. An emphasis in this course will be placed on idea generation and techniques to increase creativity. Practicing these skills will begin to grow their creative confidence in all areas. Students in this class produce meaningful and unique works of art in a friendly, supportive studio environment. Don’t miss out on this special opportunity to challenge yourself artistically and exceed all expectations!

Enrichment Classes

Literacy Lab: Reading & Writing Workshop (semester)
Literacy Lab is a workshop based class where students will set individual literacy goals AND have time to read and or write around topics/genres/authors of their choice while growing as a reader and writer.

That’s right! You can have a chance to read and write about topics of your choice in a variety of genres, like graphic novels, vlogs, songs, as well as more traditional genres such as mysteries, realistic fiction and memoir. Whether you LOVE to read and write or would LIKE to learn how to enjoy it more, Literacy Lab can provide that opportunity!

Students in this class should be able to work at some level of independence. As both readers and writers, you'll serve as a "lit leader" at WMS. For a slide deck, click here

Gifted

Exploratorium (semester or full year)
This class is designed for students in grades 6-8 who show signs of exceptional creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking in comparison to their chronological peers. The goal of Exploratorium is to provide students with elective opportunities to build their creative confidence and comfort with failure. The curriculum used in Exploratorium classes focuses on design thinking, creative confidence, and social-emotional learning. This course is for IDENTIFIED students ONLY.

This class is offered to all three grade levels.

For a video overview, click here.

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