6th Grade at L-Dub

English Language arts: FOundations

In 6th-grade ELA, we begin with an identity-focused “I’m From” poetry assignment, in which students work on using vivid, sensory language that can transport their readers. We begin practicing annotation with the short story “Secret Samantha,” noting literary devices and plot elements.

We also embark on an exploration of Aristotle’s Rhetorical Triangle. Students employ the persuasive approaches of ethos, pathos, and logos to promote an imaginary product of their own invention that they must work to convince their audience to purchase.

  • Key Texts: Alone (novel in verse), selected poetry.
  • Key Projects: Poetry Night presentation, short story crafting (plot structure, dialogue, descriptive language), claim paragraphs with evidence.
Social Studies: Ancient Civilizations

In Social Studies 6, we will spend time getting to know ancient civilizations that developed in various parts of the world. As we explore the components and histories of those civilizations, we will take time to compare and contrast them to the present day, noting what we have learned from them and how we use that information today. We will unpack these civilizations with themes of identity, community, power, and justice.

  • Skills: Evaluating/citing sources, making claims, critical thinking, research.
  • Activities: Research projects, presentations, debates, and creative visual pieces.
Science: Life Science

Students explore life sciences and discover mental tools that scientists use as they begin to develop their own scientific identities. Each unit is framed by an essential question, and students complete a series of lab activities, readings, notes, videos, and class discussions. Students typically complete a lab report, quiz, and final project for each unit.

Science at L-Dub is framed by four essential questions across all grades:

  1. How do scientists work together?
  2. How do scientists ask questions and find answers?
  3. How does science connect to your life?
  4. How do scientists make sense of "failure"?
math

This course focuses on developing problem-solving practices, increasing number sense, and ensuring that students have strong mental calculation skills. Throughout the school year, students review, practice, and apply their understanding of fractions, decimals, integers, ratios, proportions, and percentages. Students also begin introductory work with algebraic concepts.

STEAM: Intro to steam

Students explore the connections between science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics through hands-on projects, experiments, and design challenges. The goal is to develop creative problem-solving skills, collaboration, and an understanding of how STEAM applies to the real world.

Spanish

Spanish 6 students spend the year gaining confidence and command of their emerging language skills. By the end of the year, students are able to have basic conversations, read a novel for level 1 learners, listen to instruction entirely in Spanish, and write simple paragraph text.

mind, body, voice

MBV students will focus on building and/or strengthening community with classmates and learning about the importance of executive functioning skills. Students will set goals, learn about brain development during the teen years, and explore their identities. Topics focus on SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) such as self-awareness, emotional regulation, and responsible decision-making.

Physical education

In PE, students participate in activities that utilize large and small muscle movements that challenge them through strength, endurance, and mobility. In addition, they build skills in strategy and sportsmanship through games and sport-specific units. The goal is for graduates to recognize the value of these activities for health, enjoyment, challenge, and social interactions.

Visual Arts

Students will experiment with both two-dimensional and three-dimensional techniques while building craftsmanship, observation skills, and confidence in making and discussing art. We focus on at least four projects that explore an art skill and different materials: an element of art project, a color/value painting, a grid drawing project, and a self-portrait. Students learn new drawing and painting techniques as well as ways to express their own identity.

Drama

In Drama, students begin by preparing a monologue for auditions. Once the show is cast, students learn about the qualities that make up a strong ensemble—a collaborative spirit, flexibility, a willingness to take risks, and an ability to accept input from others. Students prepare a play for a fully realized production, supporting the show through acting, scene/prop construction, and tech roles.

Music

This course helps students find a passion for creating music together. Students learn and try different instruments and genres, and prepare live performances for the L-DUB community. Basic skills like rhythm, melody, expressive qualities, and song structure will be acquired and practiced. Performances by professional musicians will be analyzed to help students design their own dynamic performances.

 

 

 

 

 

"I have the opportunity to get a ton of support from my teachers so I can make sure I understand the content."

 
 

 

 

"L-Dub feels like home."

"People at L-Dub are really open-minded and making friends is a really positive experience."