Sixth Grade

List of 8 items.

• ELA

  Through reading, writing and discussion, students in sixth grade explore the path that humans take while coming of age and finding oneself.  By way of guided reading and book clubs, students will read and analyze novels that include The Giver by Lois Lowry and Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech.
  
  

  Within a writing workshop, students work on several formal and informal writing pieces, including descriptive, research-based, personal memoir, and literary analysis.  Lessons focus on essay structure and organization. Students also are exposed to different types of poetry throughout the year.
  
  

  Wordly Wise is used for vocabulary instruction. Grammar lessons focus on the different parts of speech and are reinforced through IXL practice.

• Math

  In 6th grade math, students follow the Prentice Hall Common Core Course 1 textbook aligned to the NYS Standards. Students continue their foundational work from 5th grade, completing more operational work with fractions and decimals. Additionally, in 6th grade, students enter the world of ratios and proportions, laying the basis for what will become a premiere topic in 7th grade math. Similarly, students are exposed to simple equation solving, working with inequalities, volume, and surface area. Finally, students will use both positive and negative values throughout the year, learning the core foundation of operating with integers.

• Social Studies

  Students will explore the beginnings of man and the ancient cultures of the world, including the Fertile Crescent, Ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, China and Rome. They will have opportunities to understand where we came from and how the past has influenced the future. With a focus on culture and the differences and similarities that make us one community hoping for peace.

• Science

  Sixth grade science focuses on Earth Science. Planet Earth, Geology, Astronomy, and Mars exploration are all looked at in depth. 
  
  

  A variety of learning techniques are utilized to enhance understanding such as hands-on laboratory activities, demonstrations, models, technology simulations, and projects. 
  
  

  Real world applications are explored so that students make connections between what is discussed in the classroom and its application in the natural world. Current events, engineering challenges, and science career introduction are all explored.

• World Language

  Students will read and speak using more complex structures. They will continue to learn to appreciate different cultures while exploring the themes of places in town, clothing, shopping, sports and leisure activities. Students are encouraged to use the target language (French or Spanish) as much as possible to connect words and ideas to the English equivalent. 

• Religion

  The sixth grade religion curriculum is a study of the Old Testament and salvation history. We begin with the story of Creation and learn about the Old Testament Patriarchs, and the journey of Moses and the Israelites from slavery in Egypt to the Promised Land. The class also includes projects, service and retreat days.

• Physical Education and Health

  Middle School physical education is designed to introduce students to a variety of physical activities and sports. It aims to promote physical fitness, teamwork, and healthy lifestyles. Students participate in activities like team sports, individual sports, and fitness exercises. Through these experiences, they develop fundamental motor skills, improve coordination, and gain an understanding of the importance of regular physical activity.

• Support Services

  The Middle School Student Support Services Team assists students through both pull-out groups focused on reinforcement of classroom material, and push-in services in Math and English Language Arts classes. 
  
  

  In pull-out groups, 3-5 same grade level students work with a SS Teacher to better understand content, reinforce study skills, and develop organizational strategies to support their middle school experience.  
  
  

  Students may also qualify for additional services. Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Speech Therapy are provided to students who have documented IEP goals in those areas. These specialists are provided and contracted through the Buffalo Public Schools.
  
  

  Students eligible for Support Services must have current IEP or 504 documentation from their current school.