6th Grade Syllabus

Homeroom, Social Studies, and Literature

Ms. Katherine Francisco

Social Studies

Description: In 6th grade Social Studies class, you will learn about the major Western and non-Western ancient civilizations. The time period studied ranges from the first civilizations to the rise of Christianity. In this class, you will do textbook reading and daily homework assignments. You will also get to work on both individual and collaborative group projects throughout the year. Examples of projects include: poster boards, PowerPoint presentations, oral presentations, research reports, dioramas, newspaper articles, and journals.

Textbook: Ancient Civilizations in the “Discovering Our Past” series by Glencoe McGraw-Hill

Grading System:

  • Formative – when your learning is still forming (homework, classwork, participation & effort): 20%
  • Summative – the summary of your learning (tests, quizzes, and projects): 80%

Literature

Description: In 6th grade Literature class, you will study works of fiction, nonfiction, historical fiction, poetry, and more! You will read several novels to explore various genres and themes. In this class, you will do daily reading and homework assignments, as well as larger projects.

Books:

  • Various novels, including but not limited to:
  • Hatchet by Gary Paulsen
  • The Watsons Go to Birmingham – 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis
  • Elly: My True Story of the Holocaust by Elly Berkovits Gross
  • Esperanza Rising by Pam Munoz Ryan

Grading System:

  • Formative – when your learning is still forming (homework, classwork, participation & effort): 20%
  • Summative – the summary of your learning (tests, quizzes, and projects): 80%

Additional Information

Contact Information: You are always welcome to come find me and talk to me during breaks in the school day. Also, you can reach me by email at .

Homework Policy: Assignments are made to enhance your learning experience. You are expected to complete all assignments on time. If work is turned in late, points will be deducted for each day that the assignment is late, up to two (2) days. If an assignment is not turned in within two (2) days of the due date, you will receive a zero, unless prior arrangements have been made with me.

If you are sick or have a family emergency, you will have one day per missed school day to turn in missed assignments (for example, 2 days sick = 2 days for make-up). It is your responsibility to get your missing assignments from your teachers.

Test Signature Policy: When I give you back a graded test, you have two (2) school days to get it signed by a parent and return it to me at school. If a signed test is not returned within two (2) school days, youmay receive a consequence such as recess detention, etc.

Technology: Phones, iPods, iPads, computers, and other forms of technology will only be used in the classroom if I give you permission. All such devices should be turned off and stored in your backpack in the classroom closet for the entire day.

Behavior Policy: You are expected to be a positive, respectful, and contributing member of the class at all times. If you violate this expectation, you may receive consequences that include but are not limited to: missing school activities, recess detention, lunch detention, after school detention, suspension, etc.