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General Statement
Sixth grade concentrates on the geologic process of Earth and the planets of the solar system. Our primary focus is the planet Earth. Through studying geology, we learn how scientists ask questions which lead them to scientific discovery. By asking questions, we explore external Earth including landforms, biomes, and natural resources. After we explore what we can observe with our senses, we take our scientific reasoning to the next level - making conclusions about things that one can not immediately observe. At this time, we ask questions about internal Earth. Of course, in order to make conclusions about external Earth, we will have made some hypotheses about internal Earth processes. The internal Earth processes that we explore are plate tectonics, continental drift, and geologic time. Once we have an idea of how we make conclusions about the Earth's history and geology, we move on to exploring the other planets in our solar system.
Throughout the year, emphasis is placed on hands-on experiential learning. In addition to reading and reflecting upon given materials, students will have the opportunity to discover new concepts through fieldtrips, debates, projects and labs. Students will learn and use the scientific method through weekly double period labs.
Our throughlines for this year are:
What would happen if scientists stopped asking questions?
How do I influence the Earth and how does the Earth influence who I am?
Student Goals:
- To enhance curiosity and appreciation for the complex workings of Earth's geologic processes.
- To think critically about the interdependency between you and the Earth.
- To display exemplary teamwork and learn cooperatively
- To develop organizational and study skills.
Sources and Materials
We will NOT be working from a single textbook in science class. Rather, each unit of study will be crafted from a variety of resources available on that topic, including texts, magazine articles, library books, the internet, and activity books. Homework assignments will include reading, writing, internet research, small-scale experimentation using household items, and preparation for up-coming labs.
Assessment
Student performance in science will be assessed in three areas through ritual homework assignments, quizzes, tests, library research reports, laboratory binders, science journal, and classroom participation.
Individual Needs
Since much of the class work is done in groups, students are encouraged to help each other as much as possible. Students who find themselves falling behind are encouraged to seek help from the teacher before or after school, or during tutorial times.
Science Fair
All middle school students are expected to complete a science fair project. The teacher will help you decide on an interesting and manageable project for the fair. Students are encouraged to build on their own interests. The teacher acts as a resource for students as they research their topics and then perform their experiments. The science fair project is an independent project that will be worked on in the classroom and at home. In order for the science fair to be a success students will be asked to adhere to a schedule of deadlines for choosing topics and for completing scientific research and reports. The deadlines are designed to prepare students for the science fair at the Randall Museum in February.
Outdoor Education
In November, the entire sixth grade spends a week in Yosemite National Park. While in Yosemite, students explore the geological and historical wonders that the park has to offer. In addition, students build confidence, trust, cooperation and appreciation for each other and the Earth.
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