About this class -

In sixth grade science we spiral our conversations and studies to increase our knowledge base in the areas of science, mathematics, technology, and the humanities. Our science studies focus on our environment.

See South Portland, Sixth Grade Science Essential Learning Targets in detail, or

1. Matter and Energy of Ecosystems: Environmental Science, E1 - understands how habitat changes and population sizes influence survival.

2. Matter and Energy of Ecosystems: Environmental Science, D1 - understands how energy flows through the terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems from producers to consumers to decomposers.

3. Matter and Energy of Ecosystems: Environmental Science, E2 - understands how ecosystems have limited resources to support populations.

4. Natural Selection and Adaptation: Biodiversity and Evolution, D1 -understands how variations in the behavior and traits of an offspring may permit some of them to survive a changing environment.

5. Natural Selection and Adaptation: Biodiversity and Evolution, C1 -understands why some organisms that once lived on Earth have completely disappeared.

6. Natural Selection and Adaptation: Biodiversity and Evolution, C2 -understands how some extinct organisms are similar to organisms living on Earth today.

7. 21st Century Skills - Critical Thinking

   1. Collect, record, analyze data in a systematic manner.

   2. Identify patterns, trends, and relationships that apply to reasonings/findings (Seeks Explanations)

   3. Writing for understanding using explanations and evidence.

Course/Class grading and expectations...

South Portland uses Proficiency Grading 4, 3, 2, 1

• • 3.5 to 4.0 understands and applies to new topic

  • 3 or 3.25 understands and can do independently

  • 2.5 or 2.75 understands several parts; needs some support

  • 1 or 2 little to no understanding; needs support

Habits of Work = HoW grades

"Habits of Work are the skills that are important for all students to have and exhibit to maximize their learning." (SPSD website)

Habits of Work are scored on three criteria:

• preparation for learning

• engagement with learning

• interaction with peers

Habits of Work are scored on a 3, 2, 1 scale.

3 means meeting expectations, 2 means partially meeting expectations, and 1 means not meeting expectations.

These three criteria will develop a score that shows a student's work ethic and classroom behavior. HoWs are separate from a student's course grade.

Mahoney 5 P's.

1) Prompt - be on time to class.

2) Positive - attitude matters. Be kind and respectful to everyone.

3) Polite - to everyone, no exceptions.

4) Prepared - have your materials; pencil or pen, books, etc. depending on the class. Science provides all supplies necessary for labs etc. No $ needed!

5) Productive - listen and follow directions. Use the class time wisely. Complete all work with your best ability. Work may always be redone.