Sixth Grade Curriculum
Bible
Our Bible curriculum, “Welcome to Biblical Choices,” is published by Standard Publishing. The sixth grade Bible studies are divided into four quarters, each with its own theme. After a brief review of pivotal Bible lesson from the Old and New Testaments studied during the fifth grade, students start the year by examining Paul’s pastoral letters to Timothy and Titus. The second quarter studies center around the book of James and 1, 2, and 3 John. Students are challenged to model their living and active faith to everyone in their circles of influence. During the third quarter, students are challenged to examine many issues that affect their Christian walk, and discover the tools they need to defend their position on these sometimes controversial topics. Then, in the fourth quarter, students study Revelation, the final written pages in the word of God. Students are led to discover that although Christians may suffer as a result of their beliefs God is still in control and the final victory will belong to Him and His people. Each week students have memory verses to learn, and some students accept the additional challenge of learning optional Scripture Scholar verses. In addition to our formal times of Bible study, we enjoy daily devotions and prayer times together as a class. Also, as a student body, we celebrate and worship in a chapel service once a week.
Mathematics
At the upper grade level we use Saxon Math, which is “an incremental approach to gaining skill in mathematics.” Lessons focus on computational proficiency as well as problem solving. Sixth graders learn operations with whole numbers, fractions, number theory, integers, rational numbers, expressions and equations, ratios, proportion, percents, geometry of plane and solid figures, statistics and coordinate graphing. Supplemental math activities challenge the students’ abilities in problem solving, pre-algebra skills, and communicating in math. Students moving along faster (or slower) in math are accommodated by special groupings during the math period.
Spelling and Vocabulary
For spelling practice, we use the A.C.S.I (Association of Christian Schools International) spelling curriculum. Sixth graders demonstrate spelling and word usage through application. They take weekly spelling tests and learn work etymology through a variety of activities and challenges. Students learn to break down big words by looking for and understanding Latin and Greek roots.
Reading and Literature
Our reading curriculum is published by Bob Jones and includes different genres from various cultures as well as selections from classic authors and junior novels. Biblical principles and discernment for daily living are integrated throughout the reading and literature lessons. The selections reflect Christian truth, and related assignments provide practical application of biblical principles and skills. Higher-level thinking skills are demonstrated through accompanying assignments. Sixth graders read silently at times and orally at time, and they are encouraged to read independently.
Social Studies
Sixth graders use the Bob Jones Heritage Studies curriculum to learn about ancient world history. World geography, government, civics, and citizenship are also included as part of the social studies curriculum. Current events are also an emphasis through monthly issues of Top Story, a Christian news magazine aimed at 6th-9th graders.
English
We use the Bob Jones English series, which incorporates daily grammar skills and writing instruction. Writing lessons explain how to use the Writing Process, and students use the entire writing process to “publish” a personal narrative, a newspaper editorial, an instructional piece, a research report, an historical fiction piece, a compare-contrast essay, a limerick, a free verse poem and a cover letter.
Science
The FOSS (Full Option Science System) kits make up a big part of our science curriculum. Beginning in 2008-09 sixth graders will be learning using the kits: Landforms, Nutrition and Levers/Pulleys. This curriculum, centered on inquiry learning is particularly strong in teaching the scientific process. We also supplement the FOSS curriculum with the sixth grade curriculum from Christian Schools International and Bob Jones Press. In addition, sixth graders participate in numerous scientific field studies at Outdoor School.
Technology
Students become well acquainted with computers and the most used programs. Students use Microsoft Word for word processing; learn some desktop publishing, PowerPoint, Excel, and they utilize the Internet and on-line encyclopedias for a variety of research assignment.
Cultural Experience
We incorporate at least one play during the sixth grade year. In October of 2008, we saw the play “Gosamer” in Portland. As opportunities arise, we take our learning “on the road.” We have gone “to the potter’s house” by visiting the ceramics classroom at Mark Morris High School, and we spend a day with a guide from The Seven Wonders Museum learning about creationism and Mt. St. Helens. We also try to get in a trip to OMSI and other field trips that correspond to classroom learning.
Outdoor School
One of the highlights of the year is our four-day outdoor school experience. We attend an outdoor school program at a Christian camp directed and taught by Christian instructors. High school students from our Junior/Senior High campus are counselors and spend quality (and a quantity of) time with the sixth graders. Student work hard, learn lots and have a great time at outdoor school. Curriculum there includes activities in Bible, worship, and prayer, patriotism, team building, and, of course, a scientific look at God’s amazing creation.