Welcome to St. John's Sixth Grade.

Math
The sixth grade Math program consists of review and reinforcement of previously taught skills and the introduction of many new concepts. Among these are: Whole numbers, fractions, decimals, percent ratio, simple probability, geometry, integers, and word, thought and logic problems. Mastery of the basic facts will facilitate the learning of new concepts. Enrichment activities, contest participation and extra credit sheets for review, reinforcement and enrichment are used to stimulate interest and to help make math fun.

We encourage parents to have their child share with them what they are doing in class and show the results of quizzes and tests which are given every one to two weeks. All math work is to be done in pencil.

Reading
The development of comprehension strategies and study skills will be the underlying goals of the sixth grade reading program. Use of reference materials, organization of ideas, critical reading and vocabulary development will be focused upon. Enrichment topics include Greek mythology, tall tales, and award winning literature. Student performance in the following areas will be considered when determining an over-all reading grades: vocabulary development(notebook, review pages and tests), written assignments (including book reports), skill areas ( workbook pages, worksheets and tests), oral reading and participation.

Homework consists of completion of in-class assignments, monthly book reports, and study for vocabulary and skill area tests. All written work must be done neatly, in ink and cursive.

Science
Some of the units we will be studying throughout the year in science are: the plant kingdom, energy, sound and light, heredity and change, and the animal kingdom. The students are encouraged to do research both inside and outside the classroom. Students may bring in live specimens, etc. and conduct experiments. Hands-on experiments, observation and reading the newspaper for up-to-date science information are some ways we learn about our world.

Social Studies
Social Studies is the study of the peoples and cultures of the Western and Eastern Hemispheres. The students will learn about the geography, social groups, religions, technology, occupations and art forms of the various cultural groups. This is a global study of ancient cultures and how they compare to one another. Students will participate in research projects, associate ideas and events, and take notes within the various units. Geography, map and globe skills will also be taught. Homework consists of worksheet pages, current event discussions, textbook assignments and review of notes taken in class for tests and quizzes.

Religion
The sixth grade Religion program is built around a study of the Bible with focus on the Old Testament. Greater knowledge of self, clarification of values, moral development, and social awareness will be emphasized through discussion, written expression in journals, videos and role playing. Weekly tests are on Friday. Parents are encouraged to take an active role in their child's religious education by reading and discussing topics in the text and by praying and celebrating Mass together.

The Family LIfe program continues with the ten units being covered in the religion classes.

The sixth graders will be participating in the Adopted Grandparent Program with residents of Heartland Health Care Center - Marlin. Monthly visits will be made by each homeroom during the school day.

English
English aims to develop a functional understanding of the English language. Students will be taught: Grammar including sentence structure, parts of speech, verbs and tenses, compound and complex sentences, punctuation, capitalization and correct usage. The writing process will be used for composition including creative writing, paragraphs, letter writing, summaries, reports and poetry. The students will be provided with worksheets, writing assignments and workbook pages for follow-up activities. Homework is usually assigned Monday through Thursday.

Spelling
The students are involved with developing practical techniques for learning to spell new words. Attention is given to various vowel and consonant patterns. Weekly tests are given on Thursday. Parents are encouraged to review their child's test results in determining the amount of study time needed.

Handwriting
Accurate letter formation, size and spacing are stressed in the sixth grade handwriting program. Neat and legible writing is required in all workbooks and on all assignments in every class. Handwriting sheets and control paper may be used for practice.