Grade 6 Update: April 2018
Posted on 04/10/2018
In science, students are continuing their study of population dynamics and ecosystems by exploring the “EcoMuve” virtual ecosystem. Students must collect data to support an explanation of what is causing populations to change in the virtual ecosystem and will present their findings.
In ELA, students are wrapping up reading The Giver and exploring themes of memory and social justice. After our ELA MCAS and April vacation, students will extend their learning by reading excerpts of memoirs of people who have grown up in oppressive societies, such as I Am Malala and Red Scarf Girl. Pictured is a "chalk talk" on the theme of bravery in The Giver.
In math, students are currently studying expressions and equations. In this unit they will explore linear equations (with one variable) and their solutions using tape diagrams, number lines or tables. Next, they will write, solve and reason about linear equations using hanger diagrams. This concept allows for rich discussions around equivalency and balance.
In social studies, students have wrapped up their Mesopotamia Unit and are now beginning to explore ancient Egypt. During this unit, we hope to answer two essential questions: How did the Nile river shape ancient Egypt? And how do archaeologist learn about what happened in the past? To begin to answer these questions, we have been learning about environment factors that exists both in the past and present day and analyzing how they affect where people choose to settle.
In advisory, students are working to complete their 6th grade portfolio artifacts to present as evidence for the PAUS core values of passion, pride, ownership, balance, and perseverance.