6th Grade English Syllabus

York Country Day School

2008 / 2009 

Description: Language Arts in the 6th grade encompasses four major areas: literature, grammar, writing, and vocabulary.  Literature study includes discussions, written responses, recognizing literary terms, and memorizing poetry.  The Great Books reading series is also included in our curriculum.  Grammar study includes reviewing the eight parts of speech, mechanics, and structuring sentences, among other skills.  Writing will focus on using the five step process, particularly with narrative, persuasive, letter writing, and research reports.  Vocabulary words are presented within context stories each week.  In addition, we will continue our study of verbal analogies, study skills, note taking, outlining, and organization skills. Independent outside reading projects are required on a quarterly basis.

Format:  In this course we will use a variety of teaching methods, including: lecture, teacher directed discussions, small group activities, and student generated projects and reports. 

Objectives:

  1. To improve the student’s communication skills.
  2. To develop the student’s understanding of literary terms, concepts, and themes.
  3. To improve the student’s reading comprehension skills.
  4. To improve the student’s vocabulary skills.
  5. To develop the student’s grammar skills.
  6. To develop the student’s drafting and writing skills.
  7. To develop the student’s ability to study effectively and process information.
  8. To have students be able to transfer these skills into all areas of study.

Materials:

  1. Exploration in Literature; Millet, Roderiques Ed.; Scott Foresman.
  2. English Composition and Grammar, First course; Warriner;  Harcourt Brace.
  3. Rules of the Game, Level 1; Educators Publishing Service.
  4. Vocabu-Lit, Book F; Perfection learning Corp, 2002.
  5. Write Source 2000; Sabranek, Meyer and Kemper; Write Source.
  1. Reader’s Handbook; Great Source Educational Group; Houghton Mifflin.
  2. Literature:  Budd Not Buddy, Curtis / Hatchet, Paulson, / Maniac Magee, Spinelli / Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH, O’Brien, (Among others.)  Various short stories and poetry.

Assessment: Students are evaluated periodically via tests, quizzes (40%), written assignments and projects (30%), as well as homework (20%), and participation (10%).   

Classroom Expectations:

  1. Students will follow directions the first time given.
  2. Students will come to class on time, and be prepared with homework, agenda, pens / pencils, books etc.
  3. Students will stay on task, and give their best effort.
  4. Students will not disrupt others.
  5. Students will consciously live by our Honor Code, and Core Virtues.

If the previous expectations are not met, these consequences will occur.

  1. Warnings
  2. Detention and or written explanation of behavior.
  3. Middle School Head / Teacher / Student conference.
  4. Parents notified.

We encourage and welcome your support and comments throughout the year.  Ensuring that the students grow and develop their use of our language is of primary importance. 

                                                          Mr. Tomevi

                                                          Mrs. Wertz