Curriculum > Core Subjects > 6h Grade Course of Study
Sixth Grade Course of Study
Sixth grade core integrates the subjects of English/language arts with history/social studies (two periods), and math with science (two periods). Teachers are grouped in two- or three-member teams. Exploratory Wheel, PE, and Music complete the daily schedule.
English – Students study the English/language arts skills of reading, writing, speaking, and listening within the context of units created around core literature. Students experience all skills within the context of a given unit. In 6th grade, the core literature includes Julie of the Wolves, The White Mountains, D’Aulaire’s Book of Greek Myths and various poetry selections. In addition to the core literature, students experience other literature from approved materials. Students use the grammar textbook, English 6, published by McDougal Littell. In addition, students practice grammar and mechanics within the context of writing assignments based on the genres of autobiographical incident, story, and report of information. Students practice speaking and listening skills through formal presentations, conversations, and small and large group discussion. Through portfolios of their work, students practice self-reflection and self-assessment.
Social Studies – Students study geography and the history of selected major cultures in Africa and Eurasia from Prehistory through the rise of the Roman Empire. They will learn about social, political, and economic systems, and how humankind has developed these systems in order to meet particular needs. Students will learn that ancient cultures were affected by geography and were dependent upon their own human resources. They will learn that earlier civilizations and historical events were interdependent and diverse, that events of the past can influence contemporary cultures, and that some ethical values as well as certain issues have not changed. The social studies curriculum is integrated with literature, art, science, and other relevant subjects. The text for Social Studies is A Message of Ancient Days, published by Houghton Mifflin.
Math – The math curriculum is focused upon developing and deepening understanding of important mathematical ideas through problem solving. Major mathematical concepts include proportion and rational numbers, relationships in measurement, geometry, statistics, logic, number theory, and probability. Students regularly take notes and explain their thinking orally and in writing. Manipulatives and other hands-on materials, as well as textbooks, calculators and computers are used as resources. The curricular materials for math include The Connected Mathematics series, the textbook, Concepts and Skills, published by McDougal Littell and supplemental materials including enrichment and extension activities.
Science – Students engage in hands-on discovery and research activities focusing on the scientific method. Students will be asked to synthesize their experiences through writing, and through individual or group projects. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in fieldtrips.
Physical Education and Music – During one period, students spend alternate days in Physical Education and Music. The opportunities in music include beginning and continuing instruction in string and wind instruments, choir, and general music. Sixth grade students have the opportunity to choose the type of music instruction in which they participate.
Exploratory Wheel – The remaining period is Exploratory Wheel. Students rotate approximately every six weeks through specially designed classes in Art, Computer Keyboarding, Drama, Home Economics, Industrial Technology, and Language Transfer. These courses will provide students an introduction to courses that they may choose as electives in 7th and 8th grade.
Part of the
Palo Alto Unified School District
Webmaster | updated 11/09