6th Grade Course Descriptions

Overview – At McPherson Middle School, 6th Grade students are enrolled in five (5) core classes, participate in an elective rotation for two (2) class periods, and have a Core Advisory class to end the school day.

Core Classes

  • Grammar & Composition I or Pre-AP Grammar & Composition I
  • Literature 6 or Pre-AP Literature 6
  • Science 6
  • Social Studies 6 or Pre-AP Social Studies 6
  • Mathematics I or Mathematics II

Elective Rotation

  • Introduction to Technology/Keyboarding
  • Introduction to Art
  • Physical Education
  • Vocal Music 6 or Strings

8th Hour - Core Advisory 6 or Band I

Core Course Descriptions

Grammar & Composition

  • Grammar & Composition I – In this course, students will improve their writing, spelling, and grammar skills.
  • Pre-AP Grammar & Composition I – This challenging course requires a self-motivated student who wants to improve his/her writing, spelling and grammar skills through enrichment.

Literature

  • Literature 6 – This course will include literature, vocabulary and critical reading and thinking skills.
  • Pre-AP Literature 6 – This course will challenge the self–motivated reader with literature, vocabulary and critical thinking skills.

Mathematics

  • Mathematics I – This introductory math class focuses on the operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of whole numbers, decimals, and fractions with a problem solving emphasis. In addition, exponents, probability, basic geometry, area and volume are introduced. This math class is for students needing a deeper understanding of mathematics in their transition to middle school.
  • Mathematics II – Students in this course review basic operations with whole numbers, decimals, fractions, ratios, percents, geometry, measurement, and properties. Students are also introduced to integers, equations, and expressions. Topics presented are emphasized through problem solving. Students need to be self motivated with a good work ethic.

Social Studies

  • Social Studies 6 – Includes an overview of ancient civilizations, geography and cultures.
  • Pre-AP Social Studies 6 – Requires more reading, writing, research, work outside class, and higher level thinking skills.

Science 6 – A general science class with an emphasis on physical science and health.

Pre-AP Courses – Pre-AP courses are offered at McPherson Middle School for students who show strength or an interest in specific curricular areas. Students planning to attend a post-secondary school after high school should consider taking at least one Pre-AP course during middle school. Students enrolling in Pre-AP courses should exhibit a strong work ethic and a desire to learn.

Elective Course Descriptions

Intro to Art (1 Semester) – This is an introduction to art through a study of the Elements of Design: line, shape, space, value, texture and an emphasis on color theory. Projects will be done to emphasize the various art elements. The principles of art will be introduced and explored.

Intro to Technology (9 weeks) – The purpose of the Introduction to Technology course is to give 6th grade students an opportunity to explore many subjects in the content areas of technology, family & consumer science, and science. Students work in a module for seven sessions, learning about a module topic using various types of technology. Some of module topics available are: Baking & Measurement, Electronics, Engineering Bridges, Interior Design, Robots and Rocketry & Space.

Keyboarding (9 weeks)- 6th graders will work in All The Right Type, which is a progressive typing program, for nine weeks. Students are graded on accuracy and speed using the delete key with the appropriate posture and fingering for keyboarding.

Physical Education 6 (Full Year Alternating Days with Vocal Music) – The basic concept of physical education is the development of the total person; physically, socially, and emotionally. This is achieved through team games, individual games, and skill development. Various activities are used to develop traits of self-confidence, sportsmanship, teamwork, responsibility, and the aesthetic appreciation of grace and movement. Grading is done in three main areas: daily work, skill improvement, and written work.

Vocal Music 6 (Full Year Alternating Days with Physical Education) – This course is designed to help students develop the basic fundamentals of music. The students will learn to play, sing, create, read, perform and experience music in a group setting through an active and engaging approach to learning.

Strings I (Full Year Alternating Days with Physical Education) – This class is for students with one year of experience playing in strings. The focus is on developing technique and note reading skills. Students will have at least two concert opportunities.

8th Hour Course Descriptions

Band I (Full Year) – This class is for the beginning band student with no experience playing an instrument. Instruction is given on playing techniques, music fundamentals and instrument care. Students are responsible for securing an instrument and method book for the year. Instruments may be purchased or rented from a local music store. Prerequisite: None.

Core Advisory 6 (Full Year) – This developmentally appropriate course will focus on study skills, citizenship preparedness, career exploration and academic monitoring