Middle School Curriculum Overview

Sixth Grade Curriculum Overview

In sixth grade, students will acquire skills and abilities in six domains of English Language Arts:

Reading Literature In school and at home, read routinely across a variety of text types and genres to develop ideas,

fluency, stamina, volume of reading, independence, and a love of reading Identify and cite evidence from text to support analysis about themes, central ideas, conflicts, plot

development, and character motivations and change over time Write a summary of a text distinct from personal opinions or judgments Determine and understand an author’s purpose and point of view Understand the similarities and differences among literary genres: narrative fiction, historical fiction,

fantasy, poetry, etc. Compare and contrast reading a story or listening to/viewing an audio, video, or live version of the

text Read and understand the structures and forms of myths, folktales, legends and epics from various

cultures in modern and historical literary works Read and comprehend complex text, stories, drama and poetry in the range of complexity for grade 6

Reading Informational Text Determine the central idea of a text and use textual evidence to support both explicit information and

inferences drawn from the text Develop strong content specific vocabulary using the context to determine the technical as well as

connotative and figurative meaning Determine an author’s purpose and point of view in a text Determine and evaluate the argument in a text; provide evidence and reasoning that support a

specific claim Read and comprehend literary non-fiction in the grades 6-8 text band

Writing In school and at home, write routinely to respond to reading and to develop ideas, fluency, stamina,

volume of writing, and independence Write across a variety of text types using the form and conventions of the genre: (e.g.

opinion/argument, informational, narrative: personal, imaginative, historical, and traditional, as well as poetry, speeches, and scripts

Write narratives to develop real or fictional stories using descriptive details and sensory language and well-structured event sequences

Write short narratives, poems, or scripts that use the form and conventions of myths, legends, or epics

Approach writing as a process that includes planning, drafting, revising, conferring with others for feedback, revising and editing for final copy

Produce clear and coherent writing pieces for a variety of purposes and audiences

Research and Expository Writing

English Language Arts – Grade 6

Middle School Curriculum Overview

Conduct short research projects to answer an inquiry question, gathering relevant information from multiple print and digital resources

Introduce and develop a topic selecting relevant facts, definitions, and Concrete details using precise language and content specific vocabulary Use graphics, formatting and multimedia to present a topic

Language Develop and use literary, academic, and content-specific vocabulary Determine or clarify word and phrase meanings using a range of strategies and tools (i.e. context,

Greek and Latin affixes and roots, figurative language, reference tools) Use knowledge of standard English grammar, usage, and spelling appropriate to Grade 6 when

speaking writing, reading or listening

Speaking and Listening Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions on grade 6 texts and issues, learning to

build on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions by coming to discussions prepared, posing

and responding to specific questions, and demonstrating an understanding of different perspectives Present claims and findings, main ideas and themes in a logical sequence using effective presentation

techniques and multimedia tools

In sixth grade, students will acquire skills and abilities in five mathematics domains:

Mathematical Practices Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them Reason abstractly and quantitatively Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others Model with mathematics Use appropriate tools strategically Attend to precision Look for and make use of structure Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning.

Ratios and Proportional Relationships Understand the concept of a unit rate a/b associated with a ratio a:b with b ≠ 0, and use rate

language in the context of a ratio relationship Use ratio and rate reasoning to solve real-world and mathematical problems, e.g., by reasoning

about tables of equivalent ratios, tape diagrams, double number line diagrams, or equations.

The Number System Interpret and compute quotients of fractions, and solve word problems involving division of

fractions by fractions Fluently divide multi-digit numbers using the standard algorithm Fluently add, subtract, multiply, and divide multi-digit decimals using the standard algorithm for

each operation Find the greatest common factor of two whole numbers less than or equal to 100 and the least

common multiple of two whole numbers less than or equal to 12; use the distributive property to express a sum of two whole numbers 1–100 with a common factor as a multiple of a sum of two whole numbers with no common factor

Mathematics – Grade 6

Middle School Curriculum Overview

Apply number theory concepts, including prime factorization and relatively prime numbers, to the solution of problems

Understand that positive and negative numbers are used together to describe quantities having opposite directions or values; use positive and negative numbers to represent quantities in real-world contexts, explaining the meaning of 0 in each situation

Understand a rational number as a point on the number line; extend number line diagrams and coordinate axes familiar from previous grades to represent points on the line and in the plane with negative number coordinates

Understand ordering and absolute value of rational numbers.

Expressions and Equations Write and evaluate numerical expressions involving whole-number exponents Write, read, and evaluate expressions in which letters stand for numbers Use variables to represent numbers and write expressions when solving a real-world or

mathematical problem; understand that a variable can represent an unknown number, or, depending on the purpose at hand, any number in a specified set

Solve real-world and mathematical problems by writing and solving equations of the form x + p = q and px = q for cases in which p, q, and x are all nonnegative rational numbers

Use variables to represent two quantities in a real-world problem that change in relationship to one another; write an equation to express one quantity, thought of as the dependent variable, in terms of the other quantity, thought of as the independent variable; analyze the relationship between the dependent and independent variables using graphs and tables, and relate these to the equation.

Geometry, Statistics and Probability Solve real-world and mathematical problems involving area, surface area, and volume Develop understanding of statistical variability Summarize and describe distributions.

In sixth grade, students acquire the skills and abilities the six domains of Science and Engineering in to:

Science and Engineering Practices: Ask questions (for science) and define problems (for engineering) Develop and use models Plan and carry out investigations Analyze and interpret data Use mathematics and computational thinking Construct explanations (for science) and design solutions (for engineering) Engage in argument from evidence Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information

Nature of Science and Crosscutting Concepts Recognize that scientific knowledge results from the efforts of men and women from different races,

cultures, and time periods. Apply scientific thinking to science and to their lives. Recognize science disciplines share common rules of obtaining and evaluating empirical evidence

and depend on evaluating proposed explanations for revision and improvement in light of new evidence.

Apply logical and conceptual connections between evidence and explanations as criteria in distinguishing between science and non-science.

Science – Grade 6

Middle School Curriculum Overview

Science investigations use a variety of methods and tools to make measurements and observations guided by a set of values to ensure accuracy of measurements, observations, and objectivity of findings.

Scientific knowledge is constrained by human capacity, technology, and materials.

Earth and Space Science Develop and use a model of the Earth-Sun-Moon system to explain the causes of lunar phases and

eclipses of the sun and moon Use graphical displays to illustrate that the Earth and its solar system are one of many in the Milky

Way galaxy, which is one of billions of galaxies in the universe Analyze and interpret rock layers and index fossils to determine the relative ages of rock formations

that result from processes occurring over long periods of time. Analyze and interpret maps showing the distribution of fossils and rocks, continental shapes, and

seafloor structures to provide evidence that Earth’s plates have moved great distances, collided, and spread apart.

Life Science Provide evidence that cells are the basic unit of structure and function in an organism and all

organisms (unicellular and multicellular) are made of cells Develop and use a model to describe how parts of cells contribute to the cellular functions of

obtaining food, water, and other nutrients from its environment, disposing of wastes, and providing energy for cellular processes.

Construct an argument supported by evidence that the body systems interact to carry out essential functions of life.

Analyze and interpret evidence from the fossil record to describe organisms and their environment, extinctions, and changes to life forms throughout the history of Earth.

Construct an argument using anatomical structures to support evolutionary relationships among and between fossil organisms and modern organisms. 

Physical Science Plan and conduct an experiment involving exothermic and endothermic chemical reactions to

measure and describe the release or absorption of thermal energy. Use a particulate model of matter to explain that density is the amount of matter (mass) in a given

volume. Apply proportional reasoning to describe, calculate, and compare relative densities of different materials.

Conduct an experiment to show that many materials are mixtures of pure substances that can be separated by physical means into their component pure substances.

Use evidence to support the claim that gravitational forces between objects are attractive and are only noticeable when one or both of the objects have a very large mass.

Develop and use diagrams of a simple wave to explain that a wave has a repeating pattern with a specific amplitude, frequency and wavelength and explain that the amplitude of a wave is related to the energy of the wave.

Create and use diagrams and other models to show that both light rays and mechanical waves are reflected, absorbed, or transmitted through various materials.

Present qualitative scientific and technical information to support the claim that digitized signals (sent as wave pulses representing 0s and 1s) can be used to encode and transmit information.

Technology Engineering See Technology Engineering

History and Social Science – Grade 6

Middle School Curriculum Overview

In sixth grade, students will Recognize the ideals commonly attributed to the United States and is able to relate these ideals to

everyday life Recognize and use the vocabulary of geography and the social sciences Develop study skills needed for independent research and reporting Use sophisticated geographical data sources Use maps and globes to describe and explain the Earth Use conventional map-making terminology and symbols to show physical and political features of the

United States on maps Interpret a variety of thematic maps and charts, such as climate, vegetation, and precipitation Use the five themes of geography (location, place, interaction with environment, movement, and

region) to study the geography of an area of the world Identify countries and specific physical features from all regions of the world Understand that the climate, physical features and resources of a region influence the settlement and

economies of that region Understand that people change the environment to meet their needs and that changes to

environment may be viewed as positive or negative to the environment Analyze human factors as part of a full geographical understanding, e.g., issues of health, population,

employment, role of women, etc. Read, interpret, and analyze stories from the news.

In sixth grade, students will Use the skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the target language to greet and respond

to greetings; introduce and respond to introductions; ask and answer questions; make and respond to requests; exchange information and knowledge; express likes and dislikes; describe people, places, and things; present information in a brief report; and express needs and emotions

Participate in classroom practices used in the target culture Recognize distinctive cultural aspects of the target culture presented in stories, dramas, films, and

photographs Participate in games, storytelling, celebrations, and dramatizations Identify linguistic characteristics of the target language and compare and contrast them with

English linguistic characteristics Describe some cultural beliefs and perspectives relating to family, school, and play in both target

culture and our own Identify and discuss cultural characteristics of the target culture and compare and contrast them to

cultural characteristics of our culture Obtain information and knowledge related to other disciplines from sources in the target language Apply knowledge of the target language and culture beyond the classroom setting.

In middle school, students will acquire skills and abilities in two domains of educational technology:

Instructional Technology Communicate using a variety of media and formats Locate, evaluate, analyze, and use information Compile, organize, analyze, and synthesize information

World Languages – Grade 6

Educational Technology – Grades 6 - 8

Middle School Curriculum Overview

Draw conclusions and make generalizations based on information gathered Collaborate and cooperate in team efforts Communicate locally and globally Problem-solve, self-direct learning, and extend learning activities Use information and select appropriate tools to solve problems Interact with others in ethical and appropriate ways

Library Media Acquire information problem solving skills Appreciate literature, fiction and non-fiction, and its ability to reflect on our lives and our place in the

world Acquire increasingly sophisticated information accessing, evaluating, and synthesizing skills from

library resources- including electronic resources, and the Internet.M

In sixth grade, students will Develop performance skills in voice and movement Develop improvisation skills Participate in ensemble building games Create performance characters and scenarios

In middle school, students will Understand the basic tools of musical composition Differentiate between styles, moods, and textures of music Compose and perform musical compositions Differentiate between music of different musical periods Listen to music from other cultures Identify common elements of music that transcend historical styles and cultures Research a music style or composer and gives a class presentation Listen to different styles of music by various performers and composers Understand and recognize basic music theory such as time signature, note values, clefs and staff Know basic music literacy (note reading skills).

In addition, middle school students may elect to participate in band, orchestra, and/or chorus.Art grades 6-8

In middle school, students will Draw from observation, memory and imagination using basic drawing materials Understand the fundamental elements and principles of art such as: line, shape, space, light, color,

texture, unity, variety, contrast, balance, rhythm and emphasis Create several two dimensional and three dimensional projects that are both aesthetically pleasing

and/or functional Have knowledge of art works by accomplished artists, various styles of art, and the role of art in

human culture Use an art vocabulary when describing, discussing, or evaluating their personal works or art and the

Drama Grade 6

Art Grades 6 – 8

Music Grades 6 – 8

Middle School Curriculum Overview

works of others Use and care for art materials and equipment and portfolio maintenance in appropriate ways Complete multicultural art projects that foster student respect for human differences Engage in long term products that involve critical thinking and risk taking in art making Have a positive attitude and sensitivity toward their art work and the work of others.

Technology and Engineering grades 6-8

In middle school, students will develop technology and engineering skills and abilities in seven domains: Identify and explain the steps of the engineering design process Create a multi-view drawing (orthographic projection) Identify and explain the universal system model (goal, input, process, output, feedback) Demonstrate safe and proper selection of tools, supplies and equipment Use hand tools, materials, and equipment safely and effectively Apply knowledge selection of materials based upon their properties and characteristics Describe a manufacturing organization and basic processes (cutting, shaping, forming) Communicate design ideas through Computer-Aided Design (CAD) sketches, and verbal or graphic

presentations Understand how the communication industry utilizes new technology Identify operation of transportation systems (land, water, air & space) Understand how sub-systems work together (braking, steering, exhaust, electrical systems, etc.) Identify parts of structure (foundation, floor, wall, roof) Identify three major types of bridges and the forces that act upon them (tension, compression

bending, shear) Demonstrate an understanding of adaptive or assisted devices (e.g. prosthetics).

In sixth grade, students will Demonstrate the mature form for all fundamental motor skills Demonstrate increasing competence in more advanced specialized skills (e.g. agility, quickness

and speed) Adapt and combine skills for increasingly complex movement Demonstrate more advanced strategies for team and individual recreational and lifetime

activities Identify conditioning that enhances performance and improves physical fitness Recognize and use offensive and defensive strategies Make conscious decisions about applying rules, procedures, and etiquette Utilize time effectively to complete assigned tasks Respect the contributions of others with like and different abilities Use physical activity and movement for self expression in activities such as dance Seek personally challenging experiences in physical activities Recognize the role of games, sports, and dance in understanding others of like and different

backgrounds Identify and apply the components of wellness to maintain a healthy lifestyle..

Wellness: Physical Education – Grade 6

Technology and Engineering Grades 6 – 8

Middle School Curriculum Overview

In sixth grade, students will develop skills and abilities in four domains of health and wellness:

Respect for Differences Define stereotype, bullying and intolerance and explain how they can contribute to bias,

discrimination, hate, and violence Explain the detrimental effects of prejudice (e.g., prejudice on the basis of race, gender, sexual

orientation, class, or religion) on individual relationships and on society as a whole

Nutrition Describe a healthy diet Explain how a balanced diet following US Dietary Guidelines relates to overall health and the

prevention of chronic diseases Explain basic nutrition facts regarding the five food groups, recommended servings and serving

sizes Discuss nutritional factors that can contribute to disease, e.g., excess sodium, low fiber, high

cholesterol, etc. Analyze nutritional information on food labels and describe how to use that information to

make informed decisions about food Compare and contrast a healthy diet to their own and identify ways to improve their daily diet

Growth, Development & Human Sexuality Identify the stages of the human life cycle (prenatal through adulthood) Identify and explain the structures and functions of the male and female reproductive systems Describe the physical and emotional changes which occur during puberty and adolescence Define and distinguish between the terms HIV and AIDS. Explain how HIV is transmitted and how it is not Describe ways to protect oneself from exposure to HIV Explain the benefits of abstinence, postponing sexual behavior, and setting limits on sexual

behavior

Violence Prevention Define direct and indirect bullying and give examples of each Describe the social and emotional consequences of bullying and harassment (e.g., gender, racial,

handicap, sexual in nature, etc.) List ways to effectively stop bullying Describe how stereotypes, when acted upon, can affect other people’s self-esteem and behavior Analyze their own stereotypes and how these can change when they get to know people better Analyze conflicts to identify aggressor, victim, bystander, and problem-solver Describe the power of the individual in reducing violence and identify situations where

individuals can become active in resolving conflicts Demonstrate effective communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills Recognize the value of friends, family and community as sources of help in times of stress,

conflict, or trouble.

Wellness: Health – Grade 6

Middle School Curriculum Overview

Office of Teaching & Learning 617- 559- 6125Mary Eich Assistant Superintendent for Teaching & Learningwww.newton.k12.ma.us

Curriculum Coordinators and Directors

Dana Bennett Coordinator, Elementary and Middle School Physical Education, Health and Wellness

Jenny Craddock Coordinator, Elementary and Middle School Science & Technology/Engineering Sara Hamerla Assistant Director, English Language Learning, All LevelsEileen Keane Director, Instructional Technology, All LevelsAmy Kelly District Leader, Social and Emotional Learning, All LevelsRichard King Coordinator, Elementary and Middle School Fine Arts and MusicLisa LaCava Project Leader, Social and Emotional Learning, All LevelsAllison Levit Director, English Language Learning, All LevelsDeana Lew Coordinator, Elementary English Language ArtsAnne Mikulski Coordinator, Middle School Literacy Alison Mulligan Coordinator, Middle School World LanguageAlan Ripp Coordinator, Elementary and Middle School History & Social SciencesMaricel Sheets Director, Newton METCO, All LevelsJennifer Shore Coordinator, Elementary and Middle School MathematicsChris Swerling Coordinator, Library Media, All Levels

Coordinators and Directors may be contacted by email at: first_last@newton.k12.ma.us