Language Arts

Reading and Grammar:   S ixth grade uses a literature series entitled The Language of Literature by McDougal Littel.  We also use several trade books throughout the year.  Active Reading and comprehension strategies, literary elements, vocabulary development, and critical thinking skills will be our focus this year. A PSSA Unit highlighting basic skills and testing strategies will be completed closer to the PSSA testing in the spring.

Independent Reading:  Students are required to read independently for Language Arts class.   A specific genre, or category of literature, is assigned month in order to expose all students to the various literary genres.  Students are given a reading log during the first day or two of the new month.  This reading log will be on colored paper and will explain the month's reading requirements. A project or computer generated quiz will be required at the end of the month.  The reading log will be collected on the first school day of the following month and is worth 10 points.  Parents are expected to sign the reading log at the end of each month showing that they are aware that their child read his/her required assignment.

Grammar:  The grammar series used by Sixth grade is entitled Language Network by McDougal Littel.  Sixth graders complete several units in the text and are expected to practice and apply the skills in their writing. 

Writing:  During this school year, students will write to answer prompts about material they've read in Reading class.  They will also organize and prepare a speech and complete a research project.  Other writing assignments will be completed throughout the year.  Techniques and tools such as webs and other organizers will be introduced and encouraged for use. 

Spelling (Leveled Curriculum based on LA class):  A spelling packet is assigned on the first day of the week and is due the last school day of the week.  Tests are on the final day of the week- typically Friday.  If the week is short, then there may not be a spelling unit for that week.

Vocabulary (Leveled Curriculum based on LA class):  Vocabulary units from Sadlier-Oxford's series entitled Vocabulary Workshop: Level A will be completed on a bi-weekly basis.  A unit is begun on the first school day of one week and tested the last school day of the following week.  Nightly assignments and studying are required.  If the week is short, then there may not be a vocabulary unit for that week.