Sixth Grade Curriculum

Religion:

Students focus on developing and practicing their Catholic faith. In addition, they learn Christ’s New Testament lessons as models for their lives. Weekly examination of the Sunday liturgy combined with seasonal activities (Advent, Christmas, Lent and Easter) provide young learners with a variety of experiences to strengthen their relationships with God.

Language Arts:

This is an integrated study of all communication skills. Vocabulary workshop is continued. This involves a comprehensive word study that enhances all areas of vocabulary (usage, meaning and spelling.) Spelling involves grade-appropriate instruction based on patterns and principles that develop spelling skills. Students read authentic literature, which strengthens their reading skills and abilities. Selections are based on a theme. Various genres add dimension to their reading and promote more purposeful reading and writing. Students also are required to meet teacher-set goals based on their reading level in our accelerated reading program. Students continue to use the writing process as they expand their development of writing paragraphs and knowledge of basic grammar skills. The majority of writing is done on laptops.

Math:

Students study prime and composite numbers using factors, multiples and many other classifications of numbers in math. The study of beginning statistics with graphs, mean, median and mode are reviewed. Students study geometry with regular and irregular polygons, tessellations, angles and diagonals of the different polygons as well as the characteristics of each. Fractions, decimals and percent are included in the curriculum. Students develop an understanding of fractions and their correlation to decimals and percents. Problem solving skills are taught throughout the curriculum. The Accelerated Math program is used to reinforce basic skills and learn advanced skills.

Science:

Students investigate cells, heredity, vertebrates and invertebrates, ecosystems, and the Earth and solar system. Students develop the ability to form hypotheses, draw conclusions and make inferences.  They also demonstrate scientific concepts at the science fair.

Social Studies:

Students complete in-depth studies of Western Hemisphere countries. A variety of approaches are used, including latitude and longitude competency, map making, written reports (paper or PowerPoint,) models of landmarks that exhibit a country’s culture and Internet inquiries.

Computer:

Students practice basic skills such as keyboarding, file server usage and logging in with a password.  They research topics using the Internet and develop class presentations. Students use a variety of programs such as Microsoft Word and Excel as well as image processing programs. Students use a variety of tools and applications to promote creativity.