Sixth Grade
New Ways of Thinking
As Sixth Graders leave the lower elementary grades, physically and academically, for new experiences in middle school, our teachers and curriculum meet their rapidly growing ability to think critically and abstractly.
In science, students are introduced to the empirical protocol for conducting experiments and recording procedures, noting observations and writing basic lab reports in their main lesson books. Students are taught to make objective observations, ask informed questions, and come to their own conclusions before teachers explain concepts, which sparks curiosity, interest, and confidence in the world of science.
As practicing scientists, Sixth Graders are introduced to lab work and experimentation in the first of three middle school blocks in physics, studying light, sound, heat, and magnetism. Students also delve into mineralogy, geology, and astronomy, with concepts and ideas brought to life during overnight field trips to the mountains to observe natural phenomena firsthand.
In Sixth Grade social studies, students delve into the rise and fall of the Roman Empire and Medieval history, and the study of geography takes on a worldwide scope, addressing physical, cultural, economic, and political themes. With frequent practice and review, Sixth Grade language arts lessons establish the foundations of language usage and style, including the tones and nuances of speech that enable students to develop their individual voices.
Geometry is explored through the creation of beautifully shaded geometric drawings that require precision and the careful use of instruments, and through classroom activities that lead students to discover laws and formulas for themselves.
Sixth Graders at San Francisco Waldorf School learn:
- Math: Ratios; proportions; geometric drawing with instruments; business math; pre-algebra
- Literature and Grammar: Composition; grammar; spelling; biographies
- Science: Mineralogy; physics (acoustics, electricity, magnetism, optics and heat); beginning astronomy; continuation of reproductive systems
- History and Social Studies: Rome; the Middle Ages in Europe and Asia
- Geography: World geography; ecological geography
- Music: Singing; recorder; orchestra
- Art: Calligraphy; painting; clay modeling
- Physical Education: Gym activities, competitive games, and world games tournaments
- World Languages: Spanish and Mandarin immersion
- Handwork: Hand-sewing stuffed animals (visualizing a three-dimensional finished product)
- Woodwork: Complex projects introducing new tools, including making a wooden spoon
- Theater: Annual class play based on main lesson curriculum
- Technology: Digital citizenship, digital literacy
Daily Schedule (Grades 4-8)
8:30am-3:10pm, Monday-Wednesday, Friday
8:30am-2:15pm, Thursday
The Grades After School program begins immediately following dismissal and runs until 5:30pm daily.