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This module in Reading Workshop, we have been reading nonfiction during class. (Students continued reading fiction at home.) Students have learned how to "navigate" nonfiction texts by paying attention to text features like headings, reading for the main idea, and responding to new information. In Writing Workshop, students analyzed the components and structure of essays and produced a personal essay with an introduction, conclusion, reasons and supporting examples. In Social Studies, our focus on Ancient Greece included the effects of geography on people, various and changing forms of government, and an introduction to Greek mythology. We are also preparing for the New York State ELA Test on January 16, 17, and 18.

Science Module Two

During the second module, sixth graders continue to investigate simple machines by exploring the question, "How do machines help me build big things?" Working in lab groups, students investigate mechanical advantage by building inclined planes, levers, and pulleys. For each of these experiments they practice writing their results in formal lab reports, which is a skill that will be useful in future TSMS science classes. Sixth graders will also begin a unit on weather and climate, where they will investigate the question, "What factors affect the surface temperature of the Earth?" Throughout the unit, students will conduct many hands-on laboratory activities where they will investigate how the Earth’s tilt, shape, surface, and elevation affect both weather and climate.

Math Module Two

The second module in 6th grade mathematics explores operations with fractions, decimals and percents. We will be using the Connected Mathematics Program books: Bits & Pieces II and III to supplement the curriculum. Students make real life connections of using fractions by creating their own recipe books with word problems. In addition, students will work on a Dream Vacation Package Project, where they will act as travel agents working within a set budget. Students will research airplane and hotel prices for their city using the Internet. Students will apply their knowledge of fractions, decimals and percents to represent the amount of money they are spending on airfare, hotel, and daily expenses out of their total budget. Students have been given their first Challenge Project for the module, which consists of three choices of math problems and activities. All students are encouraged to complete the challenge project.

Art Module Two

This year each 6th grade student will receive art class five days a week for one module out of the year. During that module, they will be studying the Elements of Art: Shape, line, color, value, texture and form. Each project will focus on one specific element. For example, our opening project is a book cover collage emphasizing shape. Students will be using these books throughout the module to record definitions of vocabulary they are learning and to reflect on their projects and their development as artists.

Spanish Module Two

We are beginning our introductory course to Spanish. This module, we will learn the countries all over the world where Spanish is spoken and we will focus on authentic culture and real-life communication to be able to have short conversations about school, weather, food, leisure activities and going shopping. Through completing class activities, students will employ critical thinking skills as they compare the Spanish language with their own. They will also connect to other academic subjects, using their knowledge of Spanish to access new information.

Technology Module Two

During first module in Technology class, students learn the basics of logo, a computer programming language. Students work in MicroWorlds, an integrated design environment. The unit begins with a series of tutorials combined with structured time for students to explore and build knowledge independently. Students are encouraged to share their discoveries with their classmates as they develop new skills. As students develop these skills, they design and complete an original project. This unit seeks both to build a foundation in programming for future projects and to encourage students to develop their own independent and cooperative learning skills.

Physical Education Module Two

The 6th grade students are exploring how to play full court basketball. The instructions integrate skills like dribbling, passing and shooting outside shots along with vocabulary designed to enhance their ability to play and observe. The students will also continue to explore different modes of conditioning.

Sixth Grade Curriculum Archive