6th Grade Required Courses

English

A course in reading, writing, and communication with concentrated efforts placed on preparing students for the Virginia SOLs.

Math 6

Math 6 emphasizes basic mathematical skills, focusing on rational numbers and pre-algebra concepts. Students solve multi-step problems in a variety of contexts. Concentrated efforts are placed on the Virginia SOLs.

Science 6

In this Earth Science based course, students explore the characteristics of their world. They learn about Earth’s placement in the solar system as well as the role, importance and interactions of water, energy, air, and ecosystems on the Earth. Students also closely examine the use of natural resources and the role of humans in preserving our planet. Students continue to develop scientific skills and processes as they pose questions and predict outcomes, plan and conduct investigations, collect and analyze data, construct explanations, and communicate information about the natural world. The CER process is emphasized throughout this course.

U.S. History to 1865

U.S. History (Part I) examines the events, people, and movements that shaped American history through the end of the Civil War. This course highlights Native American life, European exploration of the New World, events surrounding the American Revolution, the Constitution, westward expansion, and the causes andevents of the Civil War. Students will develop skills in critical thinking, primary source analysis, research, communication, and historical writing. Students will participate in a variety of projects and assessments, including at least four locally-developed performance assessments.

Physical Education & Health

Emphasis is on physical fitness, lead-up game situations and basic ball handling skills, recreation and lifetime activities. Health instruction includes safety on the school bus, at home, and with strangers, improving self-concept, how to deal with drugs, and family life education.