English
The English curriculum uses literature and writing to enhance students’ understanding of themselves and others. Students also continue to build reading and writing skills. Grammar, punctuation, and elements of literature are units of study. Students expand their vocabulary knowledge. Integration and thematic connections throughout the course allow students to further their understanding of people, relationships, and connections to the past. Reading selections are drawn from fiction, drama (Shakespeare and Classical Myths) and poetry. Students continue to hone their writing skills by writing for different purposes: persuasion and opinion, comparing and contrasting, and short stories from personal experience. Learn more about the language arts program.
Pre-Algebra
The Pre-Algebra course is designed to develop skills needed for the study of algebra. Reasoning, problem-solving, and mathematical communication will be emphasized. Skills such as solving multi-step equations and inequalities will be explored. The topics covered in the course are as follows: integers, variable expressions, solving equations, factors, fractions, exponents, ratio, proportion, probability, and rational numbers. Concepts learned in Math 5 will be reintroduced and extended when needed. Learn more about the math program.
Science
The main goal of the sixth grade science program is to lay the foundation for solid scientific experiences in the future through the development of inquiry skills in the science laboratory and a delight in the wonders of science. The content of the course serves as the vehicle for research skills as the content is explored mainly through laboratory experiences. Students are taught how to answer questions through discovery and how to question their answers. Students realize that skills learned in the science laboratory apply to all areas of their lives and are useful throughout life. The units for the sixth grade program are plate tectonics, oceans, astronomy, energy, and the lymphatic and immune systems of the body.
Social Studies
The sixth grade social studies course seeks to facilitate increased self-awareness and continued evolution of worldview. In social studies, students examine a variety of world cultures to compare the similarities and differences among the peoples of the world. Analysis of universals across a variety of cultures enriches understanding and respect for others. Additionally, the students study significant ideas from ancient civilizations and the 19th century, independence movements, industrialization and urbanization. Through these units, WIS students will be examining the question of how humanity constructs systems and organizations. Learn more about the history and geography program.
Mandarin or Spanish
Students develop more language skills with work on additional dialogues. They read a variety of classroom materials with familiar and new vocabulary, and demonstrate understanding. They participate in a variety of reading situations, such as guided, shared, and choral reading, using expression, correct pronunciation, and intonation. Students continue to develop and apply grammar, language conventions and vocabulary through communicative activities. Ease and confidence with language increase as students are able to express complete thoughts in Mandarin/Spanish. Confidence in giving oral presentations is reinforced. Songs, games, and stories from Chinese/Spanish culture are a key component of the program, as well as occasional integration with the classroom curriculum.
Art
Middle school art is a studio/hands-on approach to visual arts learning. Discrete design elements are connected to students’ personal experiences to teach aesthetic perceptions, historical /cultural developments, and visual art knowledge/skills. When appropriate and possible, classroom work is integrated into other classes to foster more intense personal connection to student’ learning.
Sixth grade visual art experiences incorporate a study of art periods, including Classical, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, and Realism.
Music
The approach to music is a balance of general music studies, and performance based activities. During this vocally transitional adolescent period, emphasis is placed on the unique qualities of each individual's voice, and how it can best be used, while grade level units offer a wide range of areas to be explored from Baroque to Romantic. General music units are designed to take the student’s prior musical knowledge developed in previous music classes and apply it to cultural, historical, and societal musical topics.
Physical Education/Health
Physical Education offers a balance between academic, physical and personal growth. We provide a non-threatening physical environment, which is both challenging and fun. Our aim is to develop within our students, the self-control to perform in a disciplined manner and a willingness to cooperate with each other. A variety of individual and group activities and sports are offered throughout the course of the school year, which will enable students to develop proper social skills, sport skills and knowledge. Activities are included which address health-related fitness components and are integrated with lifestyle choices discussed in class.
Technology and Design
Students will build a solid foundation of computer skills. This basic mastery is achieved through direct, hands-on learning of computer hardware and software skills. The topics covered are e-mail, keyboarding, word processing, digital media, PowerPoint, website design and Internet resources. Also in this course students will develop skills in project design, which will be applicable in other courses.
Research Skills/Library
Sixth graders will further their skills in independently selecting appropriate reference materials to locate information, evaluate information for relevancy, appropriateness, detail, currency, authority and bias. As an extension to the science studies, sixth graders will pose a question about the quality or efficacy of a consumer product, devise a test to measure the product's quality or efficacy, test a variety of commercial products, and report their conclusions.
Learning and Personal Advisory
The advisory program is designed to meet the personal, emotional, academic and social challenges of eh young teenager. Course time will be used to respond to student and group needs in the context of our school community. Our mission themes of honesty, self-discipline and fair play will be exemplified in the class discussions. The student and advisor will also problem solve any academic challenges the student may be facing.
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