Sixth grade is a time of important transitions and development. Students are expected to have an increased level of self-discipline. They have more independence and are asked to shoulder more responsibilities. Our sixth graders receive instruction from different teachers over the course of each school day. They maintain their own materials, resources, and educational tools in their locker. Students are changing classes and must adhere to set schedules for leaving one classroom, storing class materials, and retrieving materials for their next class. Students maintain their own records regarding class assignments, due dates, and future test schedules.

Bible

Wise Up (Author - Cherie Noel) is a two-semester series of lessons designed for junior high students. The course is based on the book of Proverbs and is designed to help middle school students gain biblical wisdom for relationships, character family, friends, leadership, and decision-making.

History

The ABeka New World History & Geography, a study of the Western Hemisphere, is the center of our sixth grade studies. Students also focus on how museums manage primary source information. Students create for public viewing, several museums during the school year. Art, writing, and research also allow students to interact with history during the year.

Mathematics

Sixth grade students are tested at the beginning of each year and placed in math books based on math skills and ability.

• Saxon Math 76 presents high sixth/low seventh concepts in a lower-level manner.
• Saxon Math 87 is a pre-pre-algebra book which presents upper-level concepts in a lower-level manner.
• Students ready for Pre-Algebra and above switch to the McDougal Littell/Houghton Mifflin series: Mathematical Connections: A Bridge to Algebra and Geometry, Algebra, and Geometry.

The A Beka Science text for the sixth grade provides the framework for our science studies. A growing, well-equipped science laboratory and a yearly one-week outdoor school focusing on God's creation are exceptional enhancements to this program. Hands-on experimentation, observation, and environmental interaction make for meaningful educational experiences for these students.

Language Arts/Literature

Sixth grade students use the ABeka Spelling/Vocabulary word lists. Language: Skills and Use, by Houghton-Mifflin, is the language text from which grammar / usage / mechanics skills are taught. Each grammar lesson follows a consistent focus / practice / apply format that is easy to understand. Writing / composition is integrated into subject areas and is an integral component of the Language Arts curriculum.

Goals of sixth grade Literature include:

• Comprehension
• Writing complete answers
• Building an enjoyment for various types of literature
• Strengthening reading ability

Students will read at least one full-length book, such as Star of Light or Little Pilgrims Progress, as well as shorter selections from Christian anthologies. Class discussions will enhance comprehension and oral reading will encourage expression and confidence. Christian principles will be integrated throughout all discussions and interpretations. Sixth grade Literature is a full-year course of 2-3 periods each week.

Health

Total Health is a Christian curriculum guide for our Junior High students. Students complete the first section of physical, mental, social and spiritual health in sixth grade, and the second section in seventh grade.

Physical Education

Students have two fifty 50 PE periods each week. Our campus allows for students to exercise under a basketball-court-sized covered area during inclement weather. Students work at building their physical strength and cardiovascular health in preparation for their participation in the President's Physical Fitness program.

Study Skills

The Study Skills class will provide students an opportunity to learn proper methods of study and focusing on the tasks required of them. They will be given guidance on developing their organizational and time management skills.

Art

Students will have opportunities to participate in Arts & Crafts and Drawing and Painting. In Arts and Crafts students will be doing fun projects like sculpture, design and collage, mask making, painting furniture and making unusual clothing or jewelry. In the Drawing and Painting class students will be involved in a variety of drawing projects and use of various mediums.

Photography

Learning the skill and art of taking pictures. Students are required to have use of a digital camera for the class.

Introduction to Foreign Language

Students will be required to take an introductory foreign language class. Students will be given a semester each of Japanese and Spanish. Courses are designed to give students a chance to "try out" the language. Concentration in the class will be to develop an understanding of basic vocabulary and knowledge of the alphabet (Japanese particularly) and to give them practice in how to speak the language.

Computers

Computer skills are developed in the following areas: Keyboarding, use of Microsoft XP and Microsoft Office Products. Students are encouraged to use their computer skills for actual classroom projects. Responsible use of the internet is encouraged for the purpose of doing research and to provide students with tools to better understand their other subjects. Computer classes are taught in a well-developed lab setting.

Drama

Fun skits and more extended plays and learning the basics of acting, set design and script development are part of the curriculum of this class. Students will use their skills in front of chapels and other groups throughout the year.

Choir

The choir will allow young voices to develop and learn the basics of choir and voice. Choir members will participate in a variety of opportunities to perform during the school year.