Sixth Grade Literature

Curriculum Overview

The purpose of this class is to create opportunities for students to enjoy and respond to literature in a variety of ways.  Our goal is to assist students in developing and improving their ability to read critically in order to form and express educated opinions.  We will provide the tools necessary for students to employ a variety of comprehension strategies when processing and responding to new and challenging literature.  It is through these means that we can create an environment in which all students can learn to appreciate the beauty and power of literature.

Topics of Study

• Fiction
  • Mysteries
  • Historical Fiction
  • Science Fiction
  • Realistic Fiction
  • Folklore and Mythology
  • Classics
• Nonfiction
  • Biographies
  • Expository Texts

• Poetry
• Research

Skills and Strategies

• Read with fluency and expression
• Read nonfiction text and apply strategies
  • Turning headings into questions
  • Finding main idea and supporting details
  • Writing research reports,
  • Locating and using internet resources
  • Identify and use relevant vocabulary
  • Organize test using graphic organizers

• Identify and understand
  • Author’s purpose
  • Point of view
  • Theme
  • Figurative language
  • Characteristics of various forms of literature
  • Story elements: exposition, rising action, climax, resolution
• Summarize and paraphrase information
• Use reading strategies
  • Anticipation guides
  • Active reading charts
  • Develop criteria for selecting independent reading material

Assessments

• Homework assignments
• Classroom activities
• Book reports or presentations
• Class participation
• Tests and quizzes
• Projects