September, 2010       

Dear 6th Grade Parents, 

Not to be out-foxed, the sixth grade English classes have been busy as bees, bearing down, and working like ants to nail down figurative language! We have spent much of our time thinking, reading, and discussing the way authors use language. Not only are they able to identify figurative language in their reading, they are incorporating it into their writing. Grammar, usage, and mechanics comes next as the students learn to untangle the four different kinds of sentences as well as find and write the subjects and predicates of those sentences. Watch this group like a hawk, you’re sure to see wonderful writing take place!

     "Where I Belong" is the theme of this month's literature selections. We will read autobiographical excerpts, poetry, short stories, and essays written by such authors as Francisco Jimenez, Jean Little, Gwendolyn Brooks, Carl Sandburg, and Laurence Yep.  We analyze literary elements and apply active reading strategies while reading about people who face new situations. Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli will be finished at the end of this month and a new class trade book for October will be announced. The  “souvenir” project for the monthly independent reading book is due September 30. All of the directions and the rubric for grading has been explained and handed out to the students (look for a bright orange sheet of paper). If another set copy  is needed, don't hesitate to ask. I have many extras!

     Blest Are We is the religion text and it begins with a study of the parts of the Bible.  The students realize that the Scriptures are the living word of God, telling of our faith.  Our text begins with the story of Abraham and Sarah and how God's revelation to them forever changed their lives and the lives of their descendants. Much of our discussion centered on how God reveals himself to us.

Lori Newman