What will we learn about this year?
Unit #1: Camp Creek:
Navigate the transition to 6th grade.
Unit #2: Matter Matters (PS.6.1):
Explore matter composition and understand thermal energy and properties of pure substances.
Unit #3: Wave Energy (PS.6.3):
Investigate energy transfer and explore matter changes and forces on motion.
Unit #4: Earth Movement (ESS.6.2, ESS.6.3):
Explore Earth's systems and geological events and understand the importance of stewardship.
Unit #5: Plants and Ecology (LS.6.1, LS.6.2):
Compare plants in nutrient acquisition and summarize structural adaptations and energy transfer in ecosystems.
Unit #6: Space Exploration (ESS.6.1, ESS.6.2):
Understand the relative motion of celestial bodies and compare planets in our solar system. Analyze gravitational forces in our solar system and explore the size and scale of celestial components.
Use models to show that matter is composed of atoms and elements, distinguished by the types of atoms present.
Investigate and compare physical properties of pure substances, including density, melting point, boiling point, and solubility, considering independence from the amount of matter.
Utilize models to illustrate the connection between changes in thermal energy and particle motion, including phase changes.
Unit #2 Matter Entire Study Guide
(PS.6.1.1, PS.6.1.3, PS.6.1.2)
Test correction protocol
Investigate and explain the transfer of energy using models to illustrate how heat, light, sound, and electrical currents move and interact.
Explore and communicate evidence-based explanations for changes in matter and its conservation, considering physical and chemical processes.
Investigate and compare the impacts of forces on motion, describing the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration through evidence-based explanations.
Unit #3 Energy Entire Study Guide
(PS.6.3.1, PS.6.3.2, PS.6.3.3)
Test correction protocol
Use models to summarize the structure/ composition of layers of Earth.
Earth's plates move to shape landforms and causes earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
Use models to explain the rock cycle and its link to soil formation from various rocks.
Unit #4 Earth Entire Study Guide
(ESS.6.2.1, ESS.6.2.2, ESS.6.2.3)
*ESS.6.3.1 and ESS.6.3.2 are embedded throughout the unit to foster stewardship of the land.
Test correction protocol
Utilize models to illustrate how photosynthesis fulfills plant requirements.
Utilize models to illustrate how transpiration and respiration support plants.
Understand the flow of energy through ecosystems and th the responses of populations to the biotic and abiotic factors in their environment.
Unit #5 Plants Entire Study Guide
(LS.6.1.1, LS.6.1.2, LS.6.1.3, LS.6.2.1, LS.6.2.2)
Test correction protocol
Space Vocabulary: Essential terms for celestial bodies and motions, aligned with science standards.
Eclipses and tides, influenced by celestial bodies and forces, demonstrate Earth's natural phenomena.
Discover celestial bodies and their interactions within our planetary neighborhood.
Explore the arrangement and components of our planetary system.
I have been teaching in North Carolina since 1998, primarily 6th and 7th Grade science. I have a Bachelors of Arts from Vassar College, a Masters of Science in Teaching from Bank Street College of Education, and a National Board Certified Teacher in Science/Early Adolescence. My son, Daniel, is 17. I am an avid music fan and love to mountain bike, read, and be in nature.
I dedicated ten years to teaching and have completed my doctorate focusing on curriculum and instruction. My journey began with a bachelor's degree in general science education from Northwest Florida State College, followed by a master's degree in executive leadership from Gardner-Webb University. Rooted in a deep passion for education, I also find solace in playing the cello and creating art. Beyond that, I'm an avid movie enthusiast, reflecting my love for the art of storytelling.
I am excited to return to the classroom this year to teach 6th grade Science and Social Studies at Reedy Creek Middle School. I began my journey in education through Teach For America and taught for four years before serving as an NC Career Coach, where I helped high school students explore career pathways and develop future-ready skills. I’m excited to bring that experience back to the classroom to help students make real-world connections and spark their curiosity. Outside of school, I enjoy fiber arts, creative projects, and camping with my family and friends.