Description of the Collegium (Word document)
The 6th Grade Block (Collegium 6) is a team taught program with course work in English, literature, social studies, math, science, art, and life skills. Emphasis is on the acquisition of skill and knowledge as well as on the development of appropriate habits and attitudes. Experiential education, e.g., field trips, projects, drama, is an integral part of the program. Additionally, develop or polish their keyboarding skills and use computers in conjunction with a variety of classes
SOCIAL STUDIES
Meera Patankar
In sixth grade social studies, students focus on the dynamic cultures and exchanges of the Silk Road region, from ancient times to the present day. The Silk Road was once an intricate network of trade routes connecting East Asia to the Western world. Important connections were made along the Silk Road as cultures came into contact with one another. Individuals were exposed to products, languages, inventions, belief systems, and forms of artistic expression that were previously unfamiliar to them. Throughout the school year, students travel from the Pacific Rim through Central and South Asia to the Middle East and beyond, reflecting on how these connections relate to their own experiences. Within the context of the Silk Road, students focus on several thematic units over the course of the school year. Topics include: geography and cartography; archaeological context and historical timeline; trade and economics; religion; daily life; conflict and conquest; and regional issues of interest. Reading, writing, and interpretive project work are stressed, and a year-long current events program supplements the Silk Road curriculum.
MATHEMATICS
Dan Reeder
Sixth grade mathematics covers a wide range of topics with the aims of developing abstract and logical thinking skills, problem-soliving proficiency, and mathematical techniques. Tops covered include arithmetic, number theory, measurement systems, geometry, probablity and statistics, and introductory algebraic concepts. Coursework consists of daily homework, some long-term projects, and class presentations, done both as individual work and group tasks. Students use pencil and paper, rulers and protractors, scientific calculators, computer spreadsheets, and the Internet.
ART
Suzanne Roy
The main goal in this full year course is to expose students to different materials and techniques they can use to find their own expression. Traditional drawing and painting techniques such as: shading, value, and color theory are taught in the first term. Different sketching techniques are demonstrated throughout such as: gesture drawing and creating a mural out of a poster-sized model. Students carve linoleum blocks and experiment with many different alternates between clay and paper-mache. Students learn about different artists and styles throughout the year. Appropriate use of tools is taught in all media.
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Scott Jamieson
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The 6th grade science program seeks to ignite the students' interest in understanding more about themselves, their environment, and the interconnectedness of the two. The course is designed to further develop the observational, manual, cooperative, and analytical skills emphasized in 5th grade by investigating principles from numerous scientific disciplines. Among the topics used to explore these principles are Puget Sound native plants, seasons, technology (Stone Age to modern), metric measurement, practical applications of surface area/volume ratios, watershed ecology, sound waves and vegetable gardening. This experientially based course places considerable emphasis on fieldwork.
ENGLISH
Lance King
A principal focus of instruction is development of writing skills. Many forms of writing are taught, including poetry, personal narratives, myths,scripts, monologues, stories, and short essays. Grammar and spelling receive attention both in formal instruction and in evaluation of written pieces. Throughout the year, students read a wide selection of world mythology, poetry, short stories, and novels. Many selections are tied to topics and themes in Social Studies. The Junior Great Books program enhances critical thinking as students delve into interpretation of more complex literature. A year long independent reading program encourages students to select excellent books.
LIFE SKILLS
Jamie Asaka
The mission of the 6th Grade Life Skills course is to promote physical, mental and emotional health of students by teaching skills for communication and personal decision-making and by providing information about human development and adolescent issues. The course meets for two - 50 minute periods a week all year long.
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