6th Grade Curriculum

Religion

            Religion is a study of the New Testament with a beginning focus on the book of Matthew.  Acts and the epistles will also be studied for meaning and application.

Memory

            Memory is found in Luther’s Small Catechism and the Bible.  Memory supports the lessons in religion class.  It is a skill that builds a firm foundation in God’s Word for the students and is something they will take with them the rest of their lives.

Math

            The math program concentrates on basic operations:  addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, using whole numbers, fractions, mixed numbers, and decimals.  Algebra is introduced and is incorporated in most lessons.  Integers are also incorporated into basic operations.  Students will also work with probability, statistics, geometry, story problem strategies, and ratios/proportions.  The goal is to prepare them to face the challenges of Jr. High pre-algebra and algebra.

Social Studies

            Social Studies focuses on the history of the world from pre-history limited writings to present day.  This is a subject in which note-taking and study guides are developed.  Projects and tests along with homework are used to assess student progress.

Reading

            A variety of stories and novels are read to develop comprehension, style, character, setting, plot, and interpretation along with an extension of basic reading skills.  Accelerated Reader is also used to encourage individualized reading.

Spelling

            Attack, meaning, and application of words are dealt with in spelling.  Vocabulary skills are honed through various activities in the text homework and in preparation for the tests.

Language

            The Textbook is used to review and extend grammar skills.  These skills are improved to enable the student to write in test essay form, regular essay form and a 10 page research paper.

Science

            General science is the focus in 6th grade with units on life, physical, and earth science. In Life science we study the similarities and differences within the 5 kingdoms of living things.  Even though evolution is prevalent within our textbooks, the origin and development of life is taught from a Creation-based viewpoint.  Physical science studies include matter and energy and their interaction.

Music

            Students are offered the opportunity to explore various beats and rhythms. Students play percussion and sing. In addition, the students learn the written value of musical notes, and become acquainted with compositions and composers of various time periods.

Art

            Students gain an appreciation for various artists, styles, eras and cultures through creation of artwork based on these themes.  Students work in a variety of media including acrylics, watercolor, chalks, markers, and inks.  Students will visit a ceramic shop and create a ceramic piece as part of their art curriculum. 

Computer

            Students will recognize ways technology has changed and help their lives at school and at home.  Students will recognize the need for security applications and how to keep their computer safe, especially on the internet. Students will use proper keyboarding posture, finger position, typing techniques and improve speed and accuracy when operating the computer.  Learn appropriate terminology; utilize technological tools available on the computer, identifying and preventing basic problems that occur with hard/software.    Students will know how to exchange files with other students using technology, identify search strategies for locating information, and proofread and edit using appropriate resources.  Students will also identify different types of storage devices and reason for using them, as well as appropriate file formats for various applications

Physical Education

            Students will demonstrate and identify fitness components, demonstrate progress toward mature forms of motor skills such as kicking, catching, throwing, striking and rolling.  Students will exhibit responsible personal behavior traits, social character traits, the use of good sportsmanship and an understanding of rules in organized games and sport.  Students will gain a basic understanding of the large muscle groups in the body, how to exercise them, and why it is important toward leading a healthy lifestyle.  Students will recognize physical signs (heart rate, breathing) while performing moderate and intense levels of physical activity.            

Choir (Unashamed) Grades 5 – 8

            Students meet twice per week and learn many songs, which are sung throughout the year, during Chapel (monthly), Church (quarterly), Christmas Musicals, Spring Musicals, and in a special Student Led Worship once a year. They have the opportunity to participate or assist with the lower grade students in the Spring Musical.

Advanced Band

            The Advanced Band is comprised of any 6th, 7th, or 8th graders with previous band experience.  The members of this band will study more complex and challenging music, music making, music theory and music history.  Students will also work at honing their listening skills.  The Advanced Band performs several times throughout the school year.

Textbook and other Sources:

Religion                        Voyages                                                 Concordia Publishing House 2001

Mathematics                Progress in Mathematics                        Sadlier-Oxford 2006

English                         God’s Gift of Language 2nd ed.                Beka 2002

Reading                       Glencoe Literature                                    Glencoe/McGraw-Hill 2000

Science                        Scott Foresman Science                          Scott Foresman 2003

History                        World History                                           Holt 2008

Spelling/Vocabulary    Spelling Vocabulary & Poetry 2nd ed.      Beka 2002