sixth Grade Curriculum

Sixth graders are on the brink of adolescence. They are maturing both physically and emotionally, preparing to accept greater responsibility in all areas of their lives. Our goal is to meet the developmental, academic, social, and spiritual needs of our students. They have already acquired many skills in the areas of reading and writing. They are now ready to apply these skills in the content areas of social studies and science. City Tree Christian School has adopted grade level standards in each subject area. Below you will find a summary of the main sixth grade curriculum materials we use as well as special classroom and school-wide activities which enhance our students' learning experiences.

Language Arts:

• Individualized reading instruction through self-selected literature
• Literature Circles
• ABeka Spelling Program and Language Programs
• Writing (journals, various genres, responses to literature, creative pieces, reports)
• Oral Presentations (current events, poetry, reports tied to social studies and science)
• Visits to the school library
• Association of Christian Schools International's Speech Meet (biannually)
• Association of Christian Schools International's Spelling Bee

Math:

• Prentice Hall Mathematics Program- "California Grade 6 Math"
• Association of Christian Schools International's Math Olympics (biannually)

Science:

• Christian Schools International Science program
• Holt, Rinehart, Winstons Science Program-"Earth Science"
• Week-long outdoor education camp at Indian Hills Camp in Jamul
• School-wide Science Fair - using the scientific method, younger students participate through class projects and older students submit their own individual projects

Social Studies:

• McMillan/McGraw-Hill Social Studies Program- "Ancient Civilization"
• Subject-related field trips
• School-wide Multicultural Fair - each classroom does an in-depth study of a particular culture and then opens their doors to share their knowledge with others

Christian Education:

• Positive Action-"Route 66", New Testament Survey (Matthew Through Colossians)
• Chapel - each Monday 1:20-2:15pm
• Memory Verse Program- an optional program where students memorize verses related to chapel lessons
• Bible reading, prayer, and devotions
  

Physical Education:

• Physical Education units at the Kroc Center: (i.e. swimming, basketball, fitness, volleyball, etc.)
• Physical Education in the park- City Tree instructors collaborate on special park units (i.e. soccer, track & field, etc.)
• Fitness Skills-SPARK Program (Sports, Play and Active Recreation for Kids)
• Presidential Fitness Program and testing
• Fitness Fairs
• Mile Fun Runs in the park

Health:

• Glencoe, McGraw/Hill Health Education Program: "Teen Health". Integrated into science and physical education curriculum as well as presented as special unit presentations throughout the year.
• Drug and alcohol education
• Human development
  

Spanish:

• Bridging year-Basic Spanish to Spanish 1
• Basic vocabulary, building on previous years experience (food, sports, body
• parts, weather)
• Conversation practice
• Verb conjugation in present tense
• Spanish songs
• Hispanic culture

Supplementary Curriculum:

• Technology: Students visit the computer lab during open lab time and with subject matter teachers. Special units on topics such as Powerpoint presentations are integrated throughout the year.
• Art: Sspecial units are taught in conjuction with the San Diego Museum of Art. Students are exposed to a variety of art mediums.
• Music: Instruction includes music theory, appreciation, and history. Students will apply what they learn in theory using recorders, and percussion and orff instruments. Optional participation in Chapel Team and Orchestra is available. Field trips and special assemblies take place throughout the year.
• Theater Arts: Eight week unit sponsored by Christian Youth Theater (CYT) culminating in a school assembly and performance. Participation in the K-8th grade Christmas program.

School Sponsored Extra Curricular Activities

• Chapel Team (band, vocals, technology)
• Choir
• String and Percussion Orchestra
• Student Council
• Athletics: volleyball (girls), basketball, and cheerleading
• Student store: operation and management
• After-School Program Assistant - working with younger students after school in large group and small group settings
• Academic Tutoring/Homework Club