Sixth Grade Curriculum

Language Arts-Gabby Kernion - Ashleigh Dieudonne

By studying reading as literature, students are given opportunities to read literally, interpretively, and critically. Language skills are an integral part of the curriculum. The grammar component emphasizes the structure of language. The spelling/ vocabulary program closely correlates to the language study. The writing portion of the program emphasizes the development of multi-paragraph compositions. Research skills are developed through cross-curricular projects.

History-Robert Tate

Description: Students will cover American History from the arrival of early Americans through the Reconstruction. In school year 2007-2008 these students will cover United States History reconstruction to present day.  Students will also cover the governmental and economic systems of the United States . The study of geography will also be reviewed during the school year.

Course Overview:

Units
Beginnings Prehistory to 1800
Creating a Nation
United States Constitution
Growth and Change (1790-1860)
War and Reunification
Survey of Wars (WWI, WWII, Korea , Vietnam , Persian Gulf , Iraq- War on Terror)
A Nation Transformed (1860- 1910)

Objectives: At the end of the course the student will be expected to:
1.         Identify and sequence major events.
2.         Identify cause and effect.
3.         Recognize and analyze patterns.
4.         Define historical perspective by examining continuity and change over a period of time.
5.         Recognize what people did, why they did it, and when they did it based on values and attitudes of
their times.
6.         Identify the significant people and events that tell the story of U.S. History from colonization through
the rise of industrial America .
7.         Define culture as the cumulative beliefs, values, and accepted behaviors of a group, and identify
the contributions and impact of different cultures, both native and immigrant, on American society.
8.         Identify and analyze the historical and practical workings of the U.S. Constitution.
9.         Describe major causes and effects of political and cultural conflict in history between colonization
and the rise of industrial America .
10.       Give examples of how science, technology and economics have influenced aspects of U.S. society.
11.       Give examples of how physical environment influenced settlement patterns and economic
development.
12.       Use and construct maps, charts, and other resources to gather and interpret geographic and
historic information.
13.       Recognize the difference between primary and secondary sources and use this information to draw
conclusions from data in such things as maps, charts, tables, graphs, diaries, letters and
newspapers.
14.       Articulate learning through such things as: expository writing, journal entries, simulated diaries,
stories, letters and editorials.
15.       Demonstrate the use of basic research skills through a student product.

Math-Cheryl Holsten

Philosophy – Louisiana Standards

In mathematics classrooms in Louisiana, each student actively participates in a learning environment guided by a positive capable teacher.  The student values mathematics and is confident and competent in his or her ability to use mathematics in an ever-changing world.  The student develops mathematical understanding through individual and group instruction that includes investigating, discovering, communicating, and reasoning.  Assessment, an integral part of the teaching and learning process, is carefully integrated with instructional practices.

I firmly believe in this philosophy and practice it daily in a positive atmosphere. 

6th grade curriculum – Mathematics I

Course Description – During this course, the student will be making a smooth transition from arithmetic to Pre-Algebra.  This course will provide students with work in problem solving and Algebra.  The student will also explore ratio, percent, and geometry (perimeter and area).  Integers will be taught the fourth nine weeks.  Through a carefully planned scope and sequence of mathematical topics, the student will encounter, practice, and extend their knowledge of mathematics.

6th grade curriculum – Mathematics II

The student will begin learning Pre-Algebra while mastering decimals and fractions. This course is designed to motivate the students, enabling them to see the usefulness of mathematics in the world around them. It will also enhance their fluency in the language of mathematics, and prepare them for success in algebra and geometry.

Performance or measured objectives:

  1. Demonstrate knowledge through board work.
  2. Demonstrate math concepts using manipulatives in the classroom.
  3. Demonstrate foundational skills in small groups for cooperative learning.
  4. Demonstrate knowledge learned from lessons through quizzes and chapter tests.

Activities:

  1. Hands-on math related activities
  2. Daily homework assignments
  3. Quizzes
  4. Tests
  5. Class participation
  6. Memory math
  7. Math activities and projects

    Science- Jodi Sciortino

    We will have many opportunities for hands on exploration throughout the course of the year. Labs are a component of our science class, as a way of applying what the students have learned to real-life situations. Class participation means students must take an active role in his or her learning.

    Key indicators:
    -Involvement in the discussion or activity
    -Staying on task
    -Prepared for class with textbook, notebook, and assignment pad
    -Copy homework from the board
    -Make positive contributions to our learning environment

    Tests, quizzes, projects, homework, class work, and an exam will be averaged for a final quarter grade. Extra credit will be added to a low quiz. It is not added to a percentage, but to a specific quiz.

    Test papers will be sent home on Wednesdays in the blue Kehoe-France folder to keep you updated on your child’s progress. Please review them and sign.

    Homework slips will be sent home for homework not turned in. For every homework slip issued, a point is deducted from the child’s daily grade.

    Projected Schedule for 6th grade:
    1st 9 weeks
    Life Science – Unit A Cells and Microbes
    2nd 9 weeks
    Life Science – Unit D Continuity of Life
    3rd 9 weeks
    Earth Science – Unit B The Changing Earth
    4th 9 weeks
    Earth Science – Unit E Oceanography
    Physical Science – Unit C The Nature of Matter