SIXTH GRADE
Students take four full-year (7-mod) classes: Literature and Writing, Integrated Science II, History of the Ancient World, and Math. In addition, they take single- mod classes in Spanish, Stewards of Faith, Instrumental Music, Studio Art, and Physical Education. They also have a daily X-Bin course.
Literature and Writing, History of the Ancient World
The Sixth Grade curriculum is theme-based, integrating literature, history, and writing around a central theme: The Ancient World. Studies begin with the migrations of ancient peoples and progress through the settlement of the ancient river valleys with a focus on cause and effect in settlement patterns and development. Students then examine the age of empire building. In the third quarter, students spend more time with the “classical” ancient cultures of China, Greece and Rome, ending the year with a closer look at ancient Africa and South America. In each quarter, we incorporate reading, composition, speech, and art into the Ancient World context to build and reinforce knowledge and skills.
Integrated Science II
The Middle School Science curriculum is a four-year integrated program beginning in 5th grade. Students explore earth and space science, physical science, life science, and engineering. The course is hands-on and inquiry-driven.
Math 6
Sixth Grade Math uses the inquiry-based Connected Mathematics 3 series. We explore factors and primes, ratios and rates, fractions, variables and patterns, and statistics and data analysis.
We also use ALEKS, an individualized online learning and assessment system, to help students learn, practice, and master numeracy and arithmetic skills.
Stewards of Faith
In Stewards of Faith, students are introduced to the Judeo-Christian themes of care for the environment, care for ourselves, and care for others through Biblical stories. The readings are focused around our themes and several service projects both at school and in the community naturally flow from these topics of study.
Spanish
The introductory course is designed specifically for the Sixth Grade and is a vocabulary-based program that emphasizes speaking and listening skills. With that in mind, explanation of grammatical concepts is limited to the specific skills needed for basic communication. Specific topics include some of the following: food, numbers, the classroom, family, weather, clothing, time, animals, body and health. Students participate in a culminating activity at the end of the Mod as they create a project to present to the class.
Studio Art
This course has been designed to give young artists confidence as they approach a variety of materials and foundational art making techniques. Sixth Grade art students are introduced to multiple styles of art from throughout history. Where possible, art projects are linked to students’ work in other classes. On Fridays, students have the experience of navigating through art stations. Each year during Art Week, students work with artists-in-residence and visit local art galleries. All Middle School art students have the opportunity of sharing their artwork with the community in quarterly art
exhibitions. Overall, this course inspires students to create and to enjoy the experience of gaining feedback from their teacher, their cohort and the larger community.
Instrumental Music
The Sixth Grade instrumental music program consists of Band or Orchestra and is taught through group instruction and ensemble participation.
In Orchestra, students learn to play the violin, viola, cello, or bass. In Band, students learn to play a wind instrument such as flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, or saxophone. Families do not need to make any instrument purchases or plans prior to the start of the school year. In both classes, students develop an ability to read music notation, play as an ensemble, and experience the excitement and satisfaction of making music with others. No previous instrumental music experience is necessary for either course.
Physical Education
Physical Education allows students to develop positive enjoyment of a variety of physical skills and activities. Students are introduced to physical fitness activities as a lifetime goal. An emphasis is placed on skill development and movement education, along with health and wellness.
X-Bins
Beginning in Sixth Grade, Middle School students have a class each day that’s known as an X-Bin. X-Bins are elective courses that meet daily (or every other day) for one mod. These courses, which are homework-free, give students the opportunity to explore, be creative, and try new things. Some X-Bin courses are offered every mod, while others are offered less frequently, and students can select a different course each mod. Examples of X-Bin courses include Band, Orchestra, Strength and Agility, First Aid and CPR, Sports Skills Clinics (such as basketball and volleyball), Leadership, and Painting.
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