Course Title: Reading/Language Arts 6
All Year
Prerequisite: None

This course involves the integrated skills and processes of reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

? Reading is taught through the use of a basal textbook and literature books which foster reading comprehension. The district will make a new basal textbook selection in the spring of 2002.
? Students learn and practice research skills through media and technology support.
? A trait-based model is used in writing instruction and assessment. Students write to communicate using the writing process, conventional grammar, and legible handwriting.
? Spelling is an integral part of this course. The focus of the textbook, Everyday Spelling, is the application of vocabulary, proofreading and writing.




Course Title: Reading/Language Arts 6D
All Year
Prerequisite: Identification in the Lincoln Public Schools Gifted Program and/or a qualifying SCAT Matrix score which includes MAT scores, performance and teacher recommendation.

This course involves the integrated skills and processes of reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

? Reading is taught through the use of a basal textbook and literature. The district will make a new basal textbook selection in the spring of 2002.
? The curriculum focus is centered upon the appreciation of authors’ writing styles and various genres. High Level thinking skills are needed to interpret the literature.
? Trait based writing, researching, and completing projects are integral parts of daily learning expectations.
? Grammar lessons are compacted and taught through the conventions of writing.
? Spelling is an integral part of this course. The focus of the textbook, Everyday Spelling, is the application of vocabulary, proofreading and writing.
? High-level thinking skills, quality workmanship and efficient study habits are necessary components for success in this class.



Course Title: Math 6 - Passports (book 1)
All Year
Prerequisite: None

The math curriculum is based upon the textbook, Passports to Mathematics. In this meaningful, engaging program all students will be using:
- real life applications
- hands-on investigations and the use of manipulatives
- integration of math and interdisciplinary topics
-active learning and ongoing assessments

Students will learn the basic operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of whole numbers, decimals, and fractions. Geometry, statistics, graphing, measurement, and problem solving will be included as part of the math learning.





Course Title: Math 6D
All Year
Prerequisite: Identification in the Lincoln Public Schools Gifted Program and/or a qualifying SCAT Matrix score which includes MAT scores, performance and teacher recommendation.

Students in the sixth grade differentiated math class will be using Passports to Mathematics (book 1). Passport materials will be compacted and accelerated, with additional activities which provide an emphasis on problem solving, reasoning, and critical thinking.




Course Title: Science 6
All Year
Prerequisite: None

The sixth grade curriculum interrelates science and health topics. The science units include: Human Biology, Weather and Climate, Earth’s Changing Surface, and Electricity and Magnetism. The health units focus upon the students’ personal, physical, social , and emotional health as well as disease prevention, alcohol, tobacco, and drugs.





Course Title: Social Studies 6
All Year
Prerequisite: None

The focus of the sixth grade program is on people and cultures of the Western Hemisphere, more specifically, Canada, Latin America, and Nebraska. Student learning is directed toward understanding and appreciating the lifeways of other people through the development of such concepts as language, technology, institutions, and belief systems. Other subjects covered are: citizenship/patriotism and voyage of the MIMI II, an interdisciplinary unit based on ancient Maya archaeology.





Course Title: Physical Education 6
All Year (alternate days)
Prerequisite: None

The 6th grade physical education classes will emphasize:
-skills necessary to perform a variety of physical activities
-sportsmanship
- physical fitness - Lincoln Public School fitness testing
- participating regularly in physical activity
- knowing the benefits from involvement in physical activities
- valuing a healthy lifestyle

Units included are soccer, team handball, frisbee, and aerobics.







Course Title: Band 6
All Year
Prerequisite: None (Will involve extra work if there has been no previous experience)

6th grade band students will meet once each week in 45 minute, small group, like-instrument pull-out lessons where the students will cover exercise materials to build fundamental skills. They may also learn seasonal solos that can be used outside of school. Band will meet once per week for 40 minutes outside the school day in one of two assigned sections for larger ensemble experience. Our students will also experience small ensemble playing and have opportunities to perform in two yearly programs as well as periodic appearances at assemblies. A reward for those students who have been diligent in lesson work and have been in regular attendance at band practices is the All-City 6th Grade Band held in the spring.





Course Title: Orchestra 6
All Year
Prerequisite: None (will involve extra work if there has been no previous experience)

Sixth grade orchestra students--violin, viola, cello, bass players--will meet once a week in a 45 minute, small group, like-instrument pull-out lesson. Students will cover exercises and lesson book materials to build fundamental skills. They may also learn seasonal solos that can be used outside of school. Orchestra will meet after school once per week (Wednesdays) for 40 minutes for a larger ensemble experience. Our students will also experience small ensemble playing and have opportunities to perform in two yearly concerts as well as periodic appearances at assemblies. A reward for those students who have been diligent in lesson work and have been in regular attendance at after-school orchestra is the All-City 6th Grade Orchestra held in the spring.



Course Title: Vocal Music 6
7 Weeks
Prerequisite: None

This course deals with the basic five concepts of music education (melody, harmony, form, timbre, and rhythm). Development of easy part-singing is accomplished through the use of partner songs, rounds, and easy octavo music. Instrumental ensembles using non-pitched and pitched percussion instruments creates an atmosphere of active participation by each student.



Course Title: Specials - Computer 6
13 Weeks (alternate days)
Prerequisite: None

This is an introductory course, which gives exposure to the following areas: Word Processing, Draw and Paint, Database, Internet and Multimedia. Students use AppleWorks 5.0.3 and Macintosh computers.





Course Title: Specials - Family & Consumer Science 6
7 Weeks
Prerequisite: None

The focus of sixth grade Family and Consumer Science will be to practice managing time, organizing materials and equipment, interpreting and following directions, and caring for self and others. This will be accomplished by involving the students in “hands-on” learning activities from the following areas of emphasis: foods and nutrition, home and resource management, clothing, and human development. The intended outcome will be that the students begin to develop some responsible management, cooperation skills, and connections through interdisciplinary (math, science, reading) activities necessary for life long learning.






Course Title: Specials - Keyboarding/Business 6
7 Weeks
Prerequisite: None

This seven-week course is divided into two parts. Introduction of correct finger reaches and proper technique using the touch control method of keyboarding will be the focus for the first four weeks.
The software, All The Right Type will be utilized. The last three weeks will focus on basic business concepts such as decision making, check writing, budgeting, and students will research about various entrepreneur.

**Speed, accuracy, numbers, symbols, and formatting will be covered in the 8th grade Keyboarding class.
Course Title: Specials -Art 6
13 Weeks (alternate days)
Prerequisite: None

Specials-Art is an opportunity for 6th grade students to investigate a variety of art mediums and techniques. Student exploration may include drawing, painting, pottery, weaving, printmaking, and calligraphy. Art appreciation of art history will be emphasized from a multi-cultural perspective.





Course Title: Specials - Industrial Technology 6
7 Weeks
Prerequisite: None

This entry-level course allows the students to experience several areas of basic industrial technology. These areas include hands-on projects focusing on exposure to the 4 cluster technologies studied in the middle school curriculum.






Course Title: Specials - World Language 6
13 Weeks
(Spanish, German, or French - depending on teacher)(alternate days)
Prerequisite: None

This is a thirteen-week course which alternates days with physical education class and explores basic language skill, culture and conversation. A variety of student centered activities including crafts, skits, stories, pair work, cooperative groups, songs, and games in the target language are provided. An emphasis is made to connect with other disciplines so that the student will begin to recognize how a second language contributes to the enrichment of their present academic experience.

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