Course Description GRADE 6
Middle School Algebra
[ full year ] Prerequisite / Selection Process : District Placement Process Intended Audience : Grade 8 , [ Accelerated Grade 6 and 7 ] Major Outcomes :
• Solution of equations
• Linear functions
• Properties of exponents Instructional Focus : Instruction presented in a variety of ways , including use of manipulatives , discovery and small and large group discussions .
SCIENCE COURSES
Science 6
[ full year ] Major Outcomes :
• Increase knowledge of the nature of science and engineering processes through inquiry and experimental design .
• Explore astronomy with a focus on the Sun , Earth , and Moon .
• Develop an understanding of the geologic processes that shape the Earth .
• Review the hydrologic cycle and its impact on water sources .
• Understand the meteorological processes that drive weather and climate .
Projects / Activities : May include explorations of moon phases , rock , and mineral identification , geologic modeling , and weather data collection . Instructional Focus : Students will work individually as well as in small groups . They will be involved in inquiry-based experiments , investigations of relevant topics , model design and creation , observation , data collection , and analysis .
Advanced Science 6
[ full year ] Prerequisite / Selection Process : Student selfselection Intended Audience : Students with a high interest in Earth science topics and strong problem-solving , reading , and math skills . Major Outcomes :
• Advanced Science 6 addresses the same Minnesota science standards as Science 6 . Students in this course will move through the basic concepts at a quicker pace to allow for more in depth study . There will be a greater emphasis on data collection and analysis . In addition , students in this course will work more independently and conduct additional research outside the school day .
• Increase knowledge of the nature of science and engineering processes through inquiry and experimental design . Explore astronomy with a focus on the Sun , Earth , and Moon .
• Develop an understanding of the geologic processes that shape the Earth .
• Review the hydrologic cycle and its impact on water sources .
• Understand the meteorological processes that drive weather and climate .
Projects / Activities : May include explorations of moon phases , rock and mineral identification , geologic modeling , and weather data collection . Students will present the results of an experimental project or research and an engineering project . Participation in the District STEM Fair is strongly encouraged . Instructional Focus : Students will work individually as well as in small groups . They will be involved in inquiry-based experiments , investigations of relevant topics , model design and creation , observation , data collection , and analysis .
SOCIAL STUDIES COURSES
Minnesota Studies 6
[ full year ] Major Outcomes :
• Students study Minnesota history and its government , placing the state and its people within context of the national story .
• Engage in historical inquiry and study events , issues and individuals significant to Minnesota history .
• Analyze the state ’ s physical features and how the location of resources affected settlement patterns and the growth of cities .
• Learn about economics .
• Learn about the unique role Minnesota played , and continues to play , in regional , national , and global events .
• Study current events and analyze their global impact .
Instructional Focus : Instruction is presented in a variety of ways such as class discussion , small and large group activities , simulations , and the use of technologies
REQUIRED ELECTIVES HEALTH COURSES
Health 6
[ required , every other day ] Major Outcomes :
• Interrelationships of the Health Triangle ( Hygiene , Growth & Development )
• Interpersonal Communication ( Chemical Health )
• Decision Making ( Chemical Health )
• Accessing Professional Health services ( Mental / Emotional Health )
• Self Management ( Stress Management , First Aid )
• Advocacy ( Chemical Health ) Instructional Focus : Curriculum is presented in a variety of methods including individual practice , gamified learning , small and large group discussions , guest presentations , real life simulations , and hands-on projects .
12 Middle School Registration Guide