SOCIAL STUDIES In this course the students travel back 4 million years to meet our earliest ancestors in Africa. From here, the students journey forward along the timeline to visit the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, China, India, Israel, Greece, and Rome. Like a team of archaeologists the students work to piece together the puzzle of our ancient past. Visiting lecturers, group activities, critical questioning, note taking, research, and creative projects are key elements of our course work. LANGUAGE ARTS The sixth grade language arts curriculum is designed to accompany the social studies curriculum: Ancient Civilizations. The books on the reading list have been carefully selected to track the timeline of our ancient past. From A Bone from a Dry Sea, to Mara, Daughter of the Nile, to The Odyssey, the students look at theme, character, plot, language, and structure as they become effective readers and writers. MATHEMATICS The major units studied in math during the sixth grade are statistics, fractions, Fibonacci Sequencing, financial literacy, ratio, proportion, and percents. Smaller units intertwined with these include hands-on algebra, a bridge building project, probability, geometry, problem solving, and logic. The units begin with the students using manipulatives to understand the concrete ideas then gradually progress to the abstract understanding of mathematical rules. Each unit ends with either a spreadsheet, project, or test. Previously taught skills continue to be spiraled throughout the year. SCIENCEThe first semester of 6th grade science begins with a study of the human brain and learning styles. We then focus on concepts within Earth science including plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanoes, the rock cycle, and geologic history. The second semester begins with river patterns and ecological stewardship in our community. We then move on to the human body and finish with astronomy, focusing on the seasons, constellations, and the planets. Each unit includes experiments, hands-on activities, final projects, and field trips. SPANISHThrough language immersion, students will acquire and enhance, throughout the course of the year, their oral and writing skills in Spanish. This course also focuses on the varied and diverse cultures found within the Spanish speaking world through projects, field trips, and guest speakers. DRAMA In this class the students develop dramatic skills through movement, vocal techniques, and theater games. They explore the creation of character and the expression of emotion through improvisation, scene work, monologues, and scripts. In a safe, supportive, and playful environment, girls act out real feelings, personal choices, and imaginative situations. The techniques and talents acquired throughout this course culminate in an end of the year play based on their studies of ancient China, Greece, and India. PHYSICAL EDUCATION The physical education program of Julia Morgan School inspires and challenges girls of all physical talents to develop confidence, flexibility, strength, endurance, grace, and athletic skill. The goal is that each girl leave the School: - feeling confident and comfortable in her body
- having participated in a wide variety of physical activities including games, dance, yoga, sports, movement, and self-defense
- with a life-long commitment to movement, exercise, and healthy nutrition
- with a recognition and respect for women and men who are positive role models of physical fitness and health
Physical education units for 6th graders include soccer, basketball, volleyball, track, self-efense, and a variety of field games. Additionally, students learn yoga and dance every week throughout the school year.
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