REQUIRED COURSES:

1. Course I Math, Pre-Algebra I/II, or Algebra I

2. Language Arts 6

3. Science 6

4. Social Studies 6

5. Physical Education/Health 6

ELECTIVE COURSES:

1. Beginning Band Grade 6 (all year)

OR Exploratory Classes

1. STEM 6

2. Make It Your Business 6

3. Exploratory Spanish 6

4. Art 6

REQUIRED COURSES:

*Student placement will be determined by standardized test scores and teacher recommendation.

COURSE I MATH:

The course continues the emphasis on the study of whole numbers, decimals, and fractions. Students will use ratios to compare data sets; make conversions within a given measurement system; classify three-dimensional figures; collect, analyze, display, and interpret data using a variety of graphical and statistical methods, begin using integers and percents; find the probability of an event; and investigate numerical and geometric patterns. Students will be introduced to algebraic terms and solving algebraic equations in one variable. Students will use concrete materials and appropriate technologies such as calculators, computers, and videos. However, facility in the use of technology shall not be regarded as a substitute for a student's understanding of quantitative concepts and relationships or for proficiency in basic computations. Problem solving has been integrated throughout the six content strands.

PRE-ALGEBRA I/II:

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Course 1 and based on standardized test scores.

The seventh-grade standards place emphasis on solving problems involving consumer applications and using proportional reasoning and gaining proficiency in computation with integers. Students will gain an understanding of the properties of real numbers, solve 1-and 2-step equations and 1-step inequalities and use data analysis techniques to make inferences, conjectures, and predictions. Two and three-dimensional representations, graphing transformations in the coordinate plane, and probability will be extended. Students will use concrete materials and appropriate technologies such as calculators, computers and videos. However, facility in the use of technology shall not be regarded as a substitute for a student’s understanding of quantitative concepts and relationships or for proficiency in basic computations. Problem solving has been integrated through the six content strands.

LANGUAGE ARTS 6:

Students will develop oral language skills through participation in class discussions and sharing final work products. Students will develop an understanding of grammatically correct language and appropriate vocabulary to create their own compositions. Researching a topic will be introduced. Students will study word parts to enhance word knowledge and comprehension. Students will study and discuss a variety of fiction, non-fiction, and poetry to enhance their ability to understand literary elements such as figurative language, word choice, and imagery. Students will use the writing process to produce compositions. Critical thinking will be a focus of English class. Preparation for the Standards of Learning Reading Test at the end of the year will also be part of this course. Daily homework should be expected.

SCIENCE 6:

In this course students will demonstrate the ability to use scientific skills and processes to explain the physical behavior of the environment, Earth, and the solar system. Mindful inquiry and hands on explorations, productive discussion, purposeful reading and writing will guide the students through this exciting Science course!

SOCIAL STUDIES 6: U.S. HISTORY to 1865:

Students will examine United States history from its earliest beginnings through the Civil War. Students will participate in a variety of learning activities to enhance their understanding of key historical events including the founding of the English colonies, the Revolutionary War, the formation of the U.S. Constitution, Westward Expansion, and the Civil War. Students will make connections from these historical events to the present-day. Students will utilize primary source documents, artwork, maps, multi-media, books, and quality online resources to complete assignments and extend their learning and overall critical thinking.

ELECTIVE COURSES:

PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH 6:

Students will improve their fitness level in the four main areas of physical fitness:

1. Cardiovascular endurance

2. Abdominal strength

3. Upper body strength

4. Flexibility

Students will demonstrate positive attitudes toward classmates and good sportsmanship towards teammates, opponents, and officials. Dressing out daily will promote student’s responsibility and good personal hygiene. Students will also participate in various sports and games such as flag football, indoor soccer, speedball, tennis, backyard games, ultimate Frisbee, volleyball, whiffle ball, basketball, and track and field. Throughout the course health education will be incorporated. Along with understanding how physical activity can greatly benefit one’s life, students will also learn the importance of making healthy decisions. Some of the topics include nutrition, physical activity, communicable and noncommunicable diseases, the risks of tobacco, alcohol, and drugs, using medicines wisely, building character, building healthy relationships, body systems (skeletal, muscular, nervous), mental and emotional health, conflict resolution, violence prevention, safety.

BEGINNING BAND 6:

Students will learn the basics of playing a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument. No previous experience is necessary. They will be expected to practice at home on a regular basis in order to master the fundamentals of their instrument. The band will perform beginning level music of various styles, and will put on two evening concerts for friends and family. This is a year long class that meets every other day.

*In order to select an instrument to play for this class, interested students and parents should come to “Instrument Selection Night” in late April.

STEM 6:

In this quarter long class, students will be introduced 2D & 3D modeling 3D printing and the Engineering Design Process. Special attention is devoted to developing an understanding of distance, area & volume. Additionally students will learn about programming robots, computer and file management. Students will also research a single possible STEM career and write a letter to someone in that field. The students will investigate infrastructure service providers in Madison County for real life exposure and hands on projects.

BUSINESS 6:

Students are introduced to the world of business using the computer as a problem-solving tool. We will strive to increase confidence when using computers, instill courage to try new things, and grow perseverance when addressing challenges. Focus will be placed on Google tools such as Google for Education, Create with Google, and Google’s CS First. However, emphasis will also be on using basic touch keyboarding skills to complete a variety of projects incorporating word processing, database, presentation, and spreadsheet software. Basic Internet safety and computer maintenance issues are important components of this course.

EXPLORATORY SPANISH 6:

This exploratory elective course is designed to introduce students to the Spanish language and culture. During the course, students will work with basic vocabulary and grammar. Topics will include greetings, numbers, colors, telling the date, and animals. Course work includes a focus on pronunciation and communication skills.

ART 6:

During their allotted art exploratory time, the students will explore many forms of the visual arts. Painting, hand-building in clay, drawing, art history, and career possibilities will be covered. A major goal of the class is to develop an appreciation by the students for the many forms and styles found in the visual arts. Students will also lay a strong foundation for taking art in 7th and 8th grade.