In 6th grade…
1. We learn about ancient civilizations, focus on “big ideas” and answer essential questions.
Big Ideas:
Early Humans, River Valley Civilizations, Mesopotamia
Egypt, Israel, and India
China and Greece
In every unit, we explore : WHO'S GOT THE POWER AND WHY?*
2. We use a variety of teaching methods and resources to address and engage all types of learners.
3. We complete a variety of fun and challenging projects: (here's a sample!)
Artifacts Legacy Tableaux Egyptian Trading Cards Stuffy Mummies India Text Pages
Personal Codes Athens vs. Sparta Debate Greek Drama with Marin Theatre Co. (sponsored by Kiddo!)
Persian wars mini-theatre PPT and iMovie Presentations Otzi the Iceman Day in the Life Odes and Plays
3 Philosophies: Create a Classroom Hominid Comix Who Built the Pyramids? Ancient "World Savvy" Day
4. We focus on mastering the following skills:
5. We ask ourselves, What do WE contribute to the world around us?
Although our focus is the ancient world, it is important to ask ourselves, each day, What do I contribute to the world around me? What do I I contribute to my classroom, my family, my friends, my community, my environment? As a teacher, I believe we are never too young to start asking this question. Throughout the year, students will be asked to reflect on this idea, and be encouraged to explore their unique contributions to the world, however large or small. In fact, one small contribution each day starts a ripple effect which eventually empowers us all.
*Who's got the power? We do.
1. We learn about ancient civilizations, focus on “big ideas” and answer essential questions.
Big Ideas:
- Geography
- Belief Systems
- Technology and Innovation
- Power: Who's got the power and why?
Early Humans, River Valley Civilizations, Mesopotamia
- In what ways does access to resources affect the development of societies and communities?
- How do objects and artifacts reveal belief systems?
- How is survival based on innovation/technology?
Egypt, Israel, and India
- How does geography affect the spread of culture and ideas?
- How can belief systems organize society?
- In what ways does technology affect the growth of civilization?
China and Greece
- What are the many ways that geography affects culture?
- In what ways do belief systems organize society?
- How does innovation and technological change influence the way people live?
In every unit, we explore : WHO'S GOT THE POWER AND WHY?*
2. We use a variety of teaching methods and resources to address and engage all types of learners.
- These include library books and research tools, primary sources, online resources, videos, magazines, iPads and technology, group and independent projects, drama, art, oral presentations, academic discussion and debate, historical fiction
3. We complete a variety of fun and challenging projects: (here's a sample!)
Artifacts Legacy Tableaux Egyptian Trading Cards Stuffy Mummies India Text Pages
Personal Codes Athens vs. Sparta Debate Greek Drama with Marin Theatre Co. (sponsored by Kiddo!)
Persian wars mini-theatre PPT and iMovie Presentations Otzi the Iceman Day in the Life Odes and Plays
3 Philosophies: Create a Classroom Hominid Comix Who Built the Pyramids? Ancient "World Savvy" Day
4. We focus on mastering the following skills:
- Academic Discussion: speaking and listening
- How to preview & read non-fiction
- Note taking
- Academic and Narrative writing
- Technology
- Root words and Vocabulary
- Understanding and Creating maps and timelines
- Oral Presentations
- Persuasion and Debate
5. We ask ourselves, What do WE contribute to the world around us?
Although our focus is the ancient world, it is important to ask ourselves, each day, What do I contribute to the world around me? What do I I contribute to my classroom, my family, my friends, my community, my environment? As a teacher, I believe we are never too young to start asking this question. Throughout the year, students will be asked to reflect on this idea, and be encouraged to explore their unique contributions to the world, however large or small. In fact, one small contribution each day starts a ripple effect which eventually empowers us all.
*Who's got the power? We do.