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Welcome to
Middle School North
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Math |
In Quarter Three the sixth grade
pre-algebra class will investigate proportional reasoning as it
applies to both numbers and figures. A solid understanding of
percentages is another goal. We'll revisit algebraic equation
solving and begin solving two-step and multi-step equations.
Before Spring Break geometry and measurement will be on our
agenda. ISAT testing occurs the first week on March so we are
doing a little practice for the extended response portion of the
math test. As always we will continue to explore problem solving
strategies and critical thinking exercises. Should be fun!
Science
HAL science
students are continuing their in-depth Astronomy study. The
astronomy unit focus is on the how our universe works. Through
inquiry, labs and scaled models, students discover the evidence
for our understanding of the magnitude of our universe and the
physical principles of its workings. Newton’s laws of motion,
friction and gravity are explored to help explain and understand
the celestial movements and extraterrestrial phenomena.
In addition, students investigate Earth’s closest natural
satellite: Luna. A thorough look at the moon’s phases and the
physical explanation for those phases is replicated in a lab
activity. The importance of the moon to Earth’s history,
stabilization and rotation is also explored. We then venture
further out in space to the stars. Star characteristics are
examined as well as the evidence scientists use to aid our
understanding of stars and star life cycles.
After gaining a better understanding of the workings of the
physical objects beyond Earth, we turn our attention to
cosmology, the study of the origin and future of the universe.
We look to ever larger structures in the universe, like star
clusters and galaxies, to discern patterns and organization in
the universe. We conclude our study with an overview of the many
astronomers, mathematicians and physicists that have aided our
present understanding of how the cosmos works.
Literature/Language
Arts
Language Arts:
In language arts we are preparing to tackle the
persuasive essay. Particular focus will be on elaboration and
support of opinions. Verbs and pronouns will be the subject of
our grammar study. Caesar's English continues to challenge our
HAL students- we are up to recognizing and knowing 80 stems and
vocabulary words from Latin!
Literature:
In literature we have just completed the challenging
novel Mara, Daughter of the Nile and will be reading humorous
novels and biographies for upcoming book reports. In class will
be starting the classic novel Treasure Island. A special focus
will be placed on practicing extended response questions in
order to prepare for the ISAT tests in March.
Social Studies
During third quarter students will
explore the ancient cultures of Asia. Students will research
the ancient dynasties of China, and they will share their
knowledge through a self-created “rap” song. They will also
learn about the impact of modern China on our culture and
the recent history of China. Students will analyze the
effects of the large and dense population of China on its
environment. They will be part of a simulation that involves
learning how the economy of China works. Students will also
travel to Europe toward the end of the quarter and examine
how ancient Greek and Roman culture has influenced American
culture. Some activities include, designing a working Roman
city, learning Latin, eating ancient Roman food, building
the Parthenon, and creating a human aqueduct.
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for 6th Graders
