Welcome to 6th Grade English Language Arts!

This year, you will become a stronger reader, writer, speaker, listener, and critical thinker. We will use the California StudySync curriculum and Novel Studies to explore literature, informational texts, poetry, nonfiction, and multimedia texts.

Our goal is not simply to read and write more. We will learn to think deeply, use evidence, communicate clearly, and make meaningful connections between texts and our own lives!

Unit 1- Turning Point	Unit 2- Ancient Realms
Essential Question: What happens when life changes directions? Learning Targets: Characterization Theme & Central Idea Making Inferences Figurative Language Listening to Informational Passages Informative Writing Novel Study: Hatchet- Gary Paulson	Essential Question: How does history inform and inspire us? Learning Targets: Characterization Plot Development Author’s Choices and Purpose Comparing Texts Point of View Informative Writing Novel Study: Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief- Rick Riordan
Unit 3- Facing Challenges	Unit 4- Our Heroes
Essential Question: When should we stand up for ourselves and others? Learning Targets: Theme & Central Idea Author’s Choices and Purpose Textual Evidence and Evaluating Arguments Source Credibility Ethical Research Narrative Writing Novel Study: Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry- Mildred D. Taylor	Essential Question: What does it mean to be a hero? Learning Targets: Characterization Author’s Choices and Purpose Organization and Impact Literary Devices Source Credibility Ethical Research Argumentative Writing

*Each of the Novel study selections are subject to change

Our Goal

In 6th Grade English Language Arts, we will work together to become thoughtful readers, confident writers, effective communicators, and curious learners. Mistakes are part of learning, and every student is encouraged to ask questions, try new strategies, and grow throughout the year.

Let's make this a great year of reading, writing, learning, and discovery!›

Class Expectations:

Reading

Along with the reading in our class, students are expected to read away from class. The intention is to inspire a joy of reading, so students are welcome to select the books they read themselves and check them out from the library.
For each new book a begins, they will receive a book tracker to demonstrate their progress as they read the book.
Each completed book and tracker will result in PBIS points

Participation

Come to class prepared and ready to learn.
Participate respectfully in discussions, partner work, group activities, and whole-class activities.
Listen when others are speaking and build on classmates' ideas.
Ask questions when you need clarification or support.
Take academic risks and be willing to share your thinking.

Classroom Community

Be respectful, responsible, and ready to learn.
Follow school and classroom rules.
Use classroom materials appropriately.
Keep the classroom clean and organized.
Encourage others and help create a safe environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing ideas.
Cell phones and other personal electronic devices should remain put away

Absences

If you are absent, check with me or the class learning platform for missed assignments and notes.
Students are responsible for completing missed work within the time provided by the teacher.
If you need additional time or support, communicate with the teacher as soon as possible.

Academic Integrity

Students are expected to complete their own work.
Copying another student's work, submitting someone else's work as your own, or using unauthorized assistance is not acceptable and results in a 0 on the assignment.

Welcome to 6th Grade English Language Arts!

Classes