grade 6 curriculum
- ENGLISH 6 (100)
Sixth grade English is designed to teach the reading, writing, vocabulary, and grammar skills required for a good foundation in the language. Students are introduced to a variety of literary genres including the epic, mythology, poetry, and folk literature. Literary terminology is introduced and students are expected to analyze literature using literary terms. Writing is emphasized throughout the year as students are introduced to four types of writing – descriptive, narrative, persuasive, and expository. By the end of the year, sixth grade students are expected to write a well-developed essay of at least one paragraph which includes a topic sentence, three sentences showing supporting details and a closing sentence. In addition, students keep journals and make entries in their journals on a regular basis. Vocabulary, which is taught through a textbook and from words within context in literature, develops skills in analogies, synonyms, antonyms, word meanings, and spelling. Grammar, a very important component of the curriculum, focuses on the basics – parts of speech, parts of the sentence, mechanics, and correct usage.
- math SIX (312)
The sixth grade mathematics curriculum generates direction and continuity from the activities students have experienced in grades K-5. The sixth grade curriculum is designed to build bridges between the activities which students enjoy and the more formal parts of a mathematics curriculum. While developing a structured approach, the program nurtures the aesthetic and creative aspects of mathematics. The students focus on the proper use of mathematical terminology as they take part in discovering mathematics as an essential communication tool in describing, interpreting, predicting, and explaining events. The course will emphasize proficiency in conversations and operations involving fractions, decimals, and percents. Included will be operations in the context of money and measurement exercises. Proficiency in mental arithmetic, estimation and approximation, collection and analysis of data, making and testing hypotheses, and using models, diagrams, charts, and graphs are all skills incorporated in the curriculum. The students explore plane and solid geometry topics and problem-solving skills are integrated into each unit of study.
- INTEGRATED SCIENCE (400)
The sixth grade Integrated Science course serves as an introduction to human biology and life sciences. The human biology portion of the course provides an overview of the human body. The major systems of the body are covered as well as health issues relating to each system. Strategies for maintaining optimum health are explored. As the Life Science portion of the course begins, students learn the classification system for living organisms with an emphasis placed on the plant and animal kingdoms. Students study the structure and function in living systems as well as diversity and adaptation in organisms as a whole. The final component of the Life Science portion examines animal behaviors and habitats.
Throughout the course, students learn how to correctly and safely use basic laboratory equipment including the microscope. Additionally they gain experience in the art, practice, and habit of making detailed observations and drawing reasoned conclusions. Students learn through a variety of methods including laboratory investigations, examination of selected specimens, research and presentations, classroom discussions, human anatomy models, and activities using the campus as an outdoor lab facility.
- KUWAIT SOCIAL STUDIES (500)
The purpose of this course is to teach a chronological understanding of the area commonly known as the Middle East, emphasizing subjects such as the region’s physical setting and geography, its people, the development and integration of the monotheistic religions, Ottoman, European, and American influences, and the roots of modern day political issues. Through a balanced study of past events, students will gain an appreciation for and better understanding of one of the world’s most strategically important areas. Awareness of current events will have a direct impact upon class discussion. Quizzes, essays, a book review, and class participation will measure student progress in the course.
- Arabic/Islamic Studies/Quran
These subjects are part of a sequence of courses per the Kuwait Ministry of Education main curriculum regarding arabic and religious education. AFL for foreigners and/or students who speak arabic as a second language is also offered. Arabic is scheduled once a day, everyday of the week for all grades. Religion/Quran is scheduled 3 times a week.
- ISLAMIC STUDIES
This class is part of a sequence of courses per the Kuwait Ministry of Education requirements regarding religious education.
- COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY
Computer technology is designed with the beginner in mind. Starting with keyboarding skills, students will then learn how to utilize Windows XP for accessing and manipulating their files
- DRAWING AND PAINTING I (706)
This course is divided into two quarters, the first covering basic painting technique and color theory and the second covering drawing using design elements and principles. A wide variety of materials and techniques will be introduced. This class may be taken more than once.
- PHYSICAL EDUCATION (821)
Physical education is required of all middle school students. The program’s focus is on improving the physical condition of all students regardless of athletic ability. Students will be shown proper training techniques designed to help students maintain good physical condition throughout their lives. In addition, various skills specific to a number of team and individual sports will also be included in the instruction. Students may also try out for various competitive sports teams in addition to, but not instead of, Physical Education.