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Reading/Language Arts Writing and GrammarScience Social StudiesMathematics MusicArt SpanishPhysical Education Science, Technology, EngineeringOuR Mission, Vision, and mottoMission Woodward Academy is Atlanta at its very best. We intentionally bring together students from diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, creating a richer learning community and exceptional academic opportunities. Our students and graduates are caring and compassionate global citizens who are a microcosm of what the world should be.Vision Woodward Academy will be the national model in college-preparatory education.motto Excellence. Character. Opportunity.Academic ExcellenceAt the Lower School, our focus is on innovative practices in the classroom with a curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking. Students receive wise guidance at every step, discover their greatest strengths, and build life-shaping qualities of good character.The curriculum we have developed at Woodward Academy values the core subjects such as reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies, and strives to meet the needs of students in a technologically advanced world. We believe in opportunities for creativity and movement for our students, and we promote curiosity and a love of learning by providing a curriculum that is relevant, engaging, and challenging.Opportunities to discover, collaborate, explore, and experiment are woven throughout our curriculum at every grade level from prekindergarten to 12th grade. We employ techniques such as design thinking so that students learn critical thinking while broadening their abilities and competencies. Our global connections and STEM programs allow students to broaden their horizons and explore science and technology through hands-on, real-world application. These skills are woven into our 10 core content areas below.Please Note: Education is an ever-changing field, and we are constantly updating our curriculum to reflect these changes. Because of this, the learning goals described in this document may change at any time.

3Lower SchoolOnce the 8:00 am bell has rung, students should report directly to their assigned homeroom each day. Homeroom teachers are responsible for the ascertaining and reporting of attendance, punctuality, appearance, attitude, and behavior of all assigned students.Academic Honors: Sixth Grade OnlyGold Eagle status is based on a grade point average of 3.8 and no semester grade less than C. Silver Eagle status is based on a grade point average of 3.2 and no semester grade less than C. There is no rounding up of grade point averages. (For example: a 3.16 is not rounded to a 3.2)Grade Point SystemA = 4.0B = 3.0C = 2.0D = 1.0F = 0.0To receive the Gold or Silver Eagle award, the student must have the required grade point average after averaging the grades from the four grading periods. The following subjects will be taken into consideration in computing the grade point average: reading, English, math, science, and social studies. A grade of D or F in conduct will prohibit a student from making Eagle Roll. An email message will be issued after the first semester to all students who are eligible. An email message will also be sent to the student and parents in mid-May who have qualified and will be invited to the Awards Recognition Program.Academic Probation (Grades 4, 5, and 6)Because the grade of C (2.0) is the minimum grade for college recommendation, students earning a semester GPA less than 2.0 are placed on academic probation. A student who is on academic probation for more than one semester each year is subject to required summer remediation. In addition, re-enrollment for the following year will be carefully evaluated.Evaluating AchievementFrequent evaluation of the individual student is made to substantiate progress reports. The policies on grading are established with the entire program in mind. Percentage grading is not prescribed at Woodward Academy. Teachers of grades four through six are required to report grades to students using A, B, C, D, and F via Veracross. When it is apparent that a student is doing less than satisfactory work, i.e. making a D or F, the parent will receive an email from the teacher. Grades are live in Veracross upon the teachers recording the score.

4Test ScheduleThe test schedule includes daily tests, weekly tests, bi-weekly tests, and unit or chapter tests. Lower School students do not take semester exams. 4th Grade 5th GradeMonday Open EnglishTuesday Reading MathWednesday Math Science Thursday English Social StudiesFriday Social Studies/Science Reading & VocabularyThe Lower School has enacted a test day schedule for the sixth grade in which announced tests and quizzes will be given according to the following schedule.Test ScheduleSIXTH GRADE Test ScheduleClasses Assigned Test DayEnglish and Social Studies MondayReading and Social Studies TuesdayEngish and Math WednesdayReading and Science ThursdayScience and Math Friday

5Report CardsLower School report cards are available on the Parent Portal in Veracross. If a hard copy of the report card is needed, it can be requested from the school office at any time. Parents should make sure their email addresses are current. Changes can be made any time during the year by going through your Parent Portal account and following the directions.GradesFor all academic subjects, students will receive a grade and an effort mark. The grade reflects their grades and the effort marks reflect their performance. The first letter is the subject grade and the second letter is the effort mark. Co-curricular classes (art, chorus, P.E., band, strings, foreign language, and dance) receive only an effort grade. Each student will also receive a conduct grade from the principal. These are not considered when computing for honors. Grading KeyGrades for academic subjects:A = SuperiorB = ExcellentC = ReasonableD = MinimalF = FailI = IncompleteEffort marks:E = Exceptional S = SatisfactoryN = Needs Improvement U = Unsatisfactory

6HomeworkParents are encouraged to ensure that a proper study atmosphere and consistent timeframe for homework are provided for their child. During homework time, the student should be in a quiet place that is conducive to thinking and concentrating. Disturbing influences (radios, television, computer, etc.) may create an environment that does not provide for the acquisition of good habits of study. Homework is checked daily by the teacher to ascertain that it is both complete and acceptable. Failure to complete homework assignments can adversely affect the student’s grade. The following table shows the average amount of homework given per night to students in the fourth through sixth grades:Grade Approximate Time spent per nightFourth 40 minutesFifth 50 minutesSixth 1 hourThese are average times. Be mindful that times may vary depending on the assignment and the rate at which the student works. Note: Lower School students may periodically have reports and research assignments that will require additional time to be spent on homework. Summer TutoringAny student who has received a grade of C or below on their report card in the subjects of English, reading, or math during the school year may be required to participate in summer tutoring. Also, students who show periodic weaknesses in English, reading, or math may be recommended for summer tutoring.Make-up WorkAcademic work missed as a result of absence will be the student’s responsibility to complete and turn in to the teachers for credit. School policy states that a student has one day to makeup work, assignments, and tests for each day he or she is absent. For example, a student absent on Monday and Tuesday will have Wednesday and Thursday to make up the missed work. All work, assignments, and tests would then have to be completed for Friday. This policy is to help students who are absent from school for reasons beyond their control.

7Standardized TestingAll students will take the Educational Records Bureau Achievement Test in the spring along with two milestone checks during the year. The Otis Lennon School Ability Test is given every year in January to all sixth grade students. Parents will receive information from the office on how to obtain test results..School CounselingThe counseling program operates under the supervision of the principal. Each teacher is a counselor, and the principal is informed regularly about students who are having academic or behavioral difficulties. Our counselors, led by Carrie Lauchlan, work in conjunction with the faculty and staff to provide counseling services at the Lower School. A function of the counseling program is to assist students who have persistent difficulties such as academic failure, stress, emotional, and personal problems. The progress of the student is studied through continuous follow up and changes are made when necessary through consultation and agreement among teachers, counselors, parents, and principal. You may call the front office at 404.765.4420 to set up an appointment to meet with a counselor or your child’s teachers.

4th Grade Learning GoalsOverview of 4th GradeAt the Lower School, our teachers pay careful attention to the development of each student, drawing out their strengths, and channeling every learning moment into progress. While we challenge, we also offer warm, wise guidance, creating a learning environment that keeps the joy of learning alive.Fourth grade students have:● English, Reading, Math, Science, Social Studies, P.E., and recess every day● Spanish, Music, Art, and Dance (optional) multiple times during a seven day cycle.EnglishWritingFourth grade students continue to progress through the Writer’s Workshop model and will learn to write a variety of genres, including the friendly letter, poetry, persuasive, expository, descriptive, creative, and responsive writing. The Collaborative Classroom curriculum is also used to develop students understanding of the writing process.ResearchFourth grade students conduct short research projects that use several sources to build knowledge through investigation of different aspects of a topic. MLA format is utilized.Grammar, Mechanics, UsageFourth grade students are expected to demonstrate grade appropriate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing and speaking. Teachers utilize Shurley English to develop grammar skills.● Students will incorporate their knowledge of grammar, usage, and mechanics to become strong and powerful writers.● Students will gain an understanding of the parts of the sentence, phrases, and clauses.● Students will understand how to use modifiers, pronouns, and verbs correctly.● Students will understand that the proper use of capitalization, punctuation, and spelling empowers them to become effective writers.8 Grade 4 Learning GoalsCommunication Skills● Students will engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly.● Students will present information, sequencing ideas logically and using appropriate facts and relevant, descriptive details to support main ideas or themes; they will speak clearly at an understandable pace.Reading Students in fourth grade will read a variety of increasingly complex literary and informational texts from diverse cultures and time periods. Students are expected to read grade appropriate texts with sufficiency and accuracy to support comprehension.Literary Devices:Students use fictional novels and stories to review reading strategies and literary elements to improve comprehension skills.Novel Studies:● Summer Reading: The One and Only Ivan●Brave Like That●Front DeskInformational Text: Students will read nonfiction articles in order to identify fact and opinion, become informed about current events, locate geographical areas referenced in articles, and identify main idea and details.Language/Vocabulary:● Students use their novel studies to increase their exposure to new words and word families. These word families are connected to concepts to help increase recognition and comprehension of new words.● Students learn new vocabulary words through exposure and practice in context of the assigned fiction and nonfiction readings.Excellence, Character, Opportunity

ScienceFourth through sixth grade science covers concepts in Life Sciences, Physics, Chemistry, and Earth Sciences; these concepts spiral throughout and are presented with increasing levels of complexity from one grade level to another. Each course is comprised of direct instruction, investigations, experiments, questions, and assessments, and is designed to promote student understanding of content and to promote the development of process and inquiry skills.Units in Grade 4 Science:● Introduction to Metrics and the Scientific Method● Animals and Ecosystems● Owls and Owl Pellets● Rocks and Minerals● Structure of the Earth / Plate Tectonics / Volcanoes● Electricity and Magnetism● Sound and Light WavesSocial StudiesFourth grade Social Studies focuses on the United States and covers the following concepts:Map Skills and Time Zones:Students will study the following elements of map skills:● Parts of a Map● Types of Maps● Time ZonesGovernment:Students will study elements of the U.S. government:● Citizenship● Branches of government● Levels of government● Important documentsRegions of the United States:Students will study four elements of geography across the five regions of the United States:● Environment● Economy● Culture● HistoryResearchStudents will use research skills to gather print and online resources to complete a research project. 9 Grade 4 Learning GoalsMathematicsWhen students connect ideas, they deepen their understanding. enVisionmath2.0 is organized into clusters of connected topics and lessons. Students learn to see relationships, ask questions, and try different approaches. Problem-based learning drives students to engage in productive struggle.Concepts are focused around four strands:Excellence, Character, Opportunity4th Grade Learning Goals

Music4th Grade Music● Performance-based curriculum● Students learn folk , art, and classical music to build skills:beat, rhythm, harmony,ear training, dictation, form and analysis● Students learn to read and write from music staff notation● Music History● Concert preparation skillsARtUnits in 4th Grade Art● Art history ● Elements of art ● Principles of design ● Creative use of multiple mediaDanceChildren can opt to take dance during the regularly scheduled P.E. class.Units in 4th Grade Dance● Ballet - Checcetti Technique● Jazz/Hip-Hop● Modern - Horton, Limon and Graham Technique● World Dance (Latin, African, Hawaiian, etc.)10 Grade 4 Learning GoalsPhysical Education The P.E. curriculum focuses on the integration of physical education into students’ everyday life. In addition to skill development, goal setting, self‐discipline, leadership, and cooperation, the teachers use cross-curricular strategies to reinforce content from other subjects.Units in 4th Grade P.E.● Fitness ● Chasing, Fleeing, Dodging● Toss, Throw, Catch● Striking, Net Games● Cooperative Games● Dance, Rhythm● Kicking● Balance, Gymnastics● Team Building, Field DaySpanishThe LS Spanish curriculum is designed to develop proficiency in students so that they can use the language in real world situations. Throughout their time in the Lower School, we hope to develop each student’s proficiency in the three modes of communication: interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational. The proficiency target set for students by the end of the year is Novice-High. Excellence, Character, Opportunity4th Grade Learning GoalsSchool counselingThe school counselor collaborates with parents, teachers, administrators, and community agencies to support our students. The school counselor meets with students in a classroom setting twice a month. The school counselor also provides individual/small-group counseling to target students’ specific needs or concerns. The school counselor creates programs based on the three basic domains of development: academic, career, and social/personal development. The school counselor contributes to the students’ overall success by offering a safe and nurturing environment for the students to thrive. The school counselor will encourage: ● Development of the whole child.● Sense of belonging in the school environment.● Positive attitude towards work and learning.● Exploration of coping skills for the students to identify and utilize skills when necessary.● Self-confidence in students’ abilities to succeed in all areas of their lives.SEE LearningSEE Learning is a K-12 curriculum that builds upon evidence based best practices in Social and Emotional (SEL) programs, but also expands on them by including important new topics such as attention training, the cultivation of compassion for the self and others, resilience skills grounded in trauma-informed care, systems thinking and ethical discernment. SEE Learning is education for the heart and mind and provides a universal, non-sectarian and science-based approach to fostering the whole child.Units in 4th Grade Spanish*I can exchange introductory information with others *I can describe myself and others*I can ask and answer questions about what people do in their free time

eaglesphereIn an environment that encompasses science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM), students learn by inventing, creating, and designing, therefore, experiencing a deeper understanding of what the true meaning of design should be.The STEAM curriculum at the Lower School integrates thinking, reasoning, and creativity. These critical skills contribute to students’ ability to work collaboratively, think critically, interpret multiple perspectives, analyze and interpret complex data, and understand connections. It is comprised of the following content areas:Coding and RoboticsIn fourth grade, students will practice coding with algorithms, loops, conditionals, and events. All students will participate in ten coding specific lessons throughout the year and focus their learning on collaboration, persistence, and problem-solving (debugging) techniques.Engineering and DesignThroughout all core subject areas in our curriculum, teachers infuse STEAM lessons by integrating technology and the engineering design process alongside content goals. Students will use the engineering design process while working collaboratively, thinking critically and creatively.At a fourth-grade-appropriate level, students will ● Empathize: Discover deeper insights.● Define: Develop multiple insights and synthesize into a single problem statement with guidance.● Ideate: Develop a strong “How Might We” statements and brainstorm ideas based on the problem statement. ● Prototype: Create a prototype of an idea that can be evaluated by others. ● Test and Redesign: Using feedback redesign prototype with a variety of users and scenarios in mind.Computer Literacy & KeyboardingAt a fourth grade level, students will ● demonstrate an ability to use technology to research, write, and present information.● key with proper technique.● key at a minimum speed of 20 words per minute.● (WPM) on at least three 30 second timings. ● key at 3 or fewer errors on 30 second timings.● key without using the backspace/delete key on timings. DIgital CitizenshipThe Common Sense Media Digital Citizenship curriculum is designed to empower students to think critically, behave safely, and participate responsibly in our digital world. It uses a spiraled approach to address cross-curricular needs. The lessons are taught within the counseling, STEAM, and classroom settings, and the unit topics include:● Privacy and Security● Digital Footprint and Reputation● Self-Image and Identity● Creative Credit and Copyright● Relationships and Communication● Information Literacy● Cyberbullying and Digital Drama● Internet Safety11 Grade 4 Learning GoalsInformation LiteracyAt a fourth grade level, students will demonstrate the ability to develop good questions, select sources, search for information, critically evaluate and cite the information found, and create and share the information.Excellence, Character, Opportunity4th Grade Learning GoalsLibrary and research skillsIn addition to skills learned previously, fourth grade students will:● Use an approved note-taking process.● Practice responsible use of technology by following the school’s Responsible Use Policy.● Use all information responsibly and ethically.E-portfolioSeesaw is a student-driven digital portfolio that empowers students of any age to independently document what they are learning in school and share it with their teachers, parents, classmates and the world. Each student gets his/her own journal and will add items like photos, videos, drawings and notes.

5th Grade Learning GoalsOverview of 5th GradeAt the Lower School, our teachers pay careful attention to the development of each student, drawing out their strengths and channeling every learning moment into progress. While we challenge, we also offer warm, wise guidance, creating a learning environment that keeps the joy of learning alive.Fifth Grade students have:● English, Reading, Math, Science, Social Studies, and recess every day● Spanish, Music, Art, and Dance (optional) multiple times during a seven day rotationEnglishWritingFifth grade students use the Writer’s Workshop model to generate various kinds of paragraphs including expository, descriptive, persuasive, and narrative. Student writing has a well-defined purpose and audience. Students write topic sentences and use the traits of good writing to develop the body of their paragraphs with solid details and examples. All paragraphs have a concluding sentence which brings closure to their ideas. In addition to formal writing, students have opportunities for creative writing.ResearchFifth grade students conduct short research projects that use several sources to build knowledge through investigation of different aspects of a topic. MLA format is utilized.Grammar, Usage, MechanicsFifth grade students are expected to demonstrate grade-appropriate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing and speaking.● Students will incorporate their knowledge of grammar, usage, and mechanics to become strong and powerful writers.● Students will identify the parts of the sentence such as subjects, verbs, and complements.● Students will identify phrases and clauses.● Students will gain an understanding of agreement of subjects and verbs as well as pronouns and antecedents.● Students will understand that the proper use of capitalization, punctuation, and spelling empowers them to become effective writers.12 Grade 5 Learning GoalsCommunication Skills● Students will engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly.● Students will present information, sequencing ideas logically and using appropriate facts and relevant, descriptive details to support main ideas or themes; they will speak clearly at an understandable pace.Excellence, Character, OpportunityReading Students in fifth grade will read a variety of increasingly complex literary and informational texts from diverse cultures and time periods. Students are expected to read grade-appropriate texts with sufficiency and accuracy to support comprehension.Literary DevicesStudents use fictional novels and stories to review reading strategies and literary elements to improve comprehension skills.Novel Studies● Summer Reading: Gregor the Overlander●Gregor and the Prophecy of Bane●The Watsons Go To Birmingham●The Mostly True Confessions of Homer P. Figg●Because of Mr. TeruptInformational TextStudents will read nonfiction articles in order to identify fact and opinion, become informed about current events, locate geographical areas referenced in articles, and identify main idea and details.Language/Vocabulary● Students use Vocabulary from Classical Roots to increase their exposure to new words and word families that have descended from the Greek and Latin languages. These word families are connected to concepts to help increase recognition and comprehension of new words.● Students learn new vocabulary words through exposure and practice in context of the assigned fiction and nonfiction readings.

5th Grade Learning GoalsScienceFourth through sixth grade science covers concepts in Life Sciences, Physics, Chemistry, and Earth Sciences; these concepts spiral throughout and are presented with increasing levels of complexity from one grade level to another. Each course is comprised of direct instruction, investigations, collaboration, research-based projects, experiments, and individual assessments, and is designed to promote student understanding of content as well as the development of problem solving, process, and inquiry skills.Units in Grade 5 Science:● Scientific Method and Practices● Metric System and the Nature of Science● Simple Machines● Force & Motion● Matter● Cell Structure & Plants● EnergySocial StudiesFifth grade Social Studies focuses on United States history and covers the following concepts:Thirteen Colonies: the society, culture, and economy of colonies, and the challenges the colonists faced. American Revolution: the fight for independence; major battles and strategies of both sides.Development of American Government: documents, ideas, and people that influence the creation of government.A New Beginning: structure and principles of the Constitution; Washington's presidency.Westward Expansion/Pioneers: causes and technological advancements that help lend to expansion; War of 1812; Gold Rush.Civil War: causes, influences, major battles, and consequences of the American Civil War.13 Grade 5 Learning GoalsMathematicsWhen students connect ideas, they deepen their understanding. enVisionmath2.0 is organized into clusters of connected topics and lessons. Students learn to see relationships, ask questions, and try different approaches. Problem-based learning drives students to engage in productive struggle.Concepts are focused around four strands:Excellence, Character, Opportunity5th Grade Learning Goals

5th Grade Learning GoalsMusic5th Grade Music ● Develop music literacy (Reading music notation)● Emphasis on singing/playing with good technique● Music Theory concepts● Learn classical/traditional repertoire● Concert preparation● Opportunities to audition for honors groups ● Music HistoryARtUnits in 5th Grade Art● Art history ● Elements of art● Principles of design ● Creative use of multiple mediaDanceUnits in 5th Grade Dance● Ballet - Checcetti technique● Modern - Horton, Limon and Graham technique● Improvisation/Creative Movement● Jazz/Hip-Hop● World Dance (Latin, African, Hawaiian, etc.)14 Grade 5 Learning GoalsPhysical Education The P.E. curriculum focuses on the integration of physical education into students’ everyday life. In addition to skill development, goal setting, self‐discipline, leadership, and cooperation, the teachers use cross-curricular strategies to reinforce content from other subjects.Units in 5th Grade P.E.● Fitness● Chasing, Fleeing, Dodging ● Toss, Throw, Catch● Striking, Net Games ● Cooperative Games ● Dance, Rhythm● Balance, Gymnastics ● Kicking ● Team Building, Field DaySpanishThe Woodward LS Spanish curriculum is designed to develop proficiency in students so that they can use the language in real world situations. Throughout their time in the Lower School, we hope to develop each student’s proficiency in the three modes of communication: interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational. The proficiency target set for students by the end of the year is Novice-High. Excellence, Character, OpportunitySchool counselingThe school counselor collaborates with parents, teachers, administrators, and community agencies to support our students. The school counselor meets with students in a classroom setting twice a month. The school counselor also provides individual/small-group counseling to target students’ specific needs or concerns. The school counselor creates programs based on the three basic domains of development: academic, career, and social/personal development. The school counselor contributes to the students’ overall success by offering a safe and nurturing environment for the students to thrive. The school counselor will encourage: ● Development of the whole child.● Sense of belonging in the school environment.● Positive attitude towards work and learning.● Exploration of coping skills for the students to identify and utilize skills when necessary.● Self-confidence in students’ abilities to succeed in all areas of their lives.SEE LearningSEE Learning is a K-12 curriculum that builds upon evidence based best practices in Social and Emotional (SEL) programs, but also expands on them by including important new topics such as attention training, the cultivation of compassion for the self and others, resilience skills grounded in trauma-informed care, systems thinking and ethical discernment. SEE Learning is education for the heart and mind and provides a universal, non-sectarian and science-based approach to fostering the whole child.5th Grade Learning GoalsUnits in 5th Grade Spanish*I can exchange introductory information with others *I can describe myself and others*I can ask and answer questions about what people do in their free time

5th Grade Learning GoalseaglesphereIn an environment that encompasses science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM), students learn by inventing, creating, and designing, therefore experiencing a deeper understanding of what the true meaning of design should be. The STEAM curriculum at the Lower School integrates thinking, reasoning, and creativity. These skills contribute to students’ ability to work collaboratively, think critically, interpret with multiple perspectives, analyze and interpret complex data, and understand connections. It is comprised of the following content areas:Coding and RoboticsIn 5th grade, students will practice coding with algorithms, loops, conditionals, and events. All students will apply their coding knowledge to STEAM challenges that focus their learning on collaboration, persistence, and problem-solving (debugging) techniques. They also investigate different problem-solving techniques and discuss the societal impacts of computing on the internet.Engineering and DesignThroughout all core subject areas in our curriculum, teacher infuse STEAM lessons by integrating technology and the engineering design process alongside content goals.. Students will use the engineering design process while working collaboratively and thinking critically and creatively. At a fifth-grade appropriate level, students will: ● Empathize: Discover deeper, human-centered insights.● Define: Develop multiple insights and synthesize into a single problem statement with little guidance.● Ideate: Develop multiple “How Might We” statements and a spectrum of ideas based on the problem statement.● Prototype: Create a representation of an idea that can be evaluated by others and develop multiple iterations.● Test and Redesign: Real world testing with a variety of users and scenarios.Computer Literacy & KeyboardingAt a fifth grade level, students will ● demonstrate an ability to use technology to research, write, and present information.● key with proper technique.● key at a minimum speed of 25 words per minute. (WPM) on at least three one-minute timings. ● key at 2 or fewer errors on one-minute timings. ● key without using the backspace/delete key on timings.DIgital CitizenshipThe Common Sense Media Digital Citizenship curriculum is designed to empower students to think critically, behave safely, and participate responsibly in our digital world. It uses a spiraled approach to address cross-curricular needs. The lessons are taught within the counseling, STEAM, and classroom settings, and the unit topics include:● Privacy and Security● Digital Footprint and Reputation● Self-Image and Identity● Creative Credit and Copyright● Relationships and Communication● Information Literacy● Cyberbullying and Digital Drama● Internet Safety15 Grade 5 Learning GoalsInformation LiteracyAt a fifth grade level, students will demonstrate the ability to develop good questions, select sources, search for information, hypothesize, critically evaluate and cite the information found, and create and share the information.Students will continue to reinforce skills from fourth grade, such as: ● use an approved note-taking process.● practice responsible use of technology by following the school’s Responsible Use Policy. ● use all information responsibly and ethically.● Identify, locate, and use primary sources.Excellence, Character, Opportunity5th Grade Learning GoalsE-portfolioSeesaw is a student-driven digital portfolio that empowers students of any age to independently document what they are learning in school and share it with their teachers, parents, classmates and the world.Each student gets his/her own journal and will add items like photos, videos, drawings and notes.

6th Grade Learning GoalsOverview of 6th GradeAt the Lower School, our teachers pay careful attention to the development of each student, drawing out their strengths and channeling every learning moment into progress. While we challenge, we also offer warm, wise guidance, creating a learning environment that keeps the joy of learning alive.In the seven-day rotation, sixth grade students have:● English, Reading, Math, Science, Social Studies, and recess every day● Spanish, Music, Art, and Dance (optional) multiple times in a seven day period16 Grade 6 Learning GoalsCommunication Skills● Students will engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly.● Students will present information, sequencing ideas logically and using appropriate facts and relevant, descriptive details to support main ideas or themes; they will speak clearly at an understandable pace.Excellence, Character, OpportunityReading Students in sixth grade will read a variety of increasingly complex literary and informational texts from diverse cultures and time periods. Students are expected to read grade-appropriate texts with sufficiency and accuracy to support comprehension.Literary DevicesStudents use fictional novels and stories to review reading strategies and literary elements to improve comprehension skills.Novel Studies● Summer Reading: Fuzzy Mud●Two other novels are chosen for study throughout the yearInformational TextStudents will read nonfiction articles in order to identify fact and opinion, become informed about current events, locate geographical areas referenced in articles, and identify main idea and details.Language/Vocabulary● Students use Vocabul-lit - Building Vocabulary Through Reading to increase their exposure to new words and word families that have descended.. These word families are connected to concepts to help increase recognition and comprehension of new words.● Students learn new vocabulary words through exposure and practice in the context of the assigned fiction and nonfiction readings.EnglishWritingSixth grade students continue to progress through the stages of writing utilizing Writer’s Workshop as a process and are expected to write in the genres of descriptive, narrative, expository, persuasive, compare/contrast, and creative, as well as essays, stories, letters, and short passages.Students are expected to write clear, coherent, and focused essays that contain formal introductions, supporting evidence, and conclusions. Grammar, Mechanics, UsageSixth grade students are expected to demonstrate grade appropriate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing and speaking. Teachers utilize Shurley English for grammar instruction.● Students will incorporate their knowledge of grammar, usage, and mechanics to become strong and powerful writers.● Students will gain an understanding of the parts of the sentence, phrases, and clauses.● Students will understand how to use modifiers, pronouns, and verbs correctly.● Students will understand that the proper use of capitalization, punctuation, and spelling empowers them to become effective writers.

6th Grade Learning GoalsScienceFourth through sixth grade science covers concepts in Life Sciences, Physics, Chemistry, and Earth Sciences; these concepts spiral throughout and are presented with increasing levels of complexity from one grade level to another. Each course is comprised of direct instruction, investigations, collaboration, research-based projects, experiments, and individual assessments, and is designed to promote student understanding of content as well as the development of problem solving, process, and inquiry skills.Units in Grade 6 Science:● Habits of Mind/Nature of Science● Inside Earth● Weathering and Erosion● Environmental Science/Inquiry Project● Health and Wellness/Sex Ed● Water Resources● Oceanography ● Climate and Weather● Earth, Moon, and Sun● Solar System and the UniverseSocial StudiesSixth grade Social Studies will be studying Ancient World History; the course covers the following concepts and goals:Origins of Civilization: understand how the exact origin of early humans is unknown and how archaeologists have worked to unearth hominin and early human artifacts to piece together our knowledge of the past.Civilizations and Peoples of the Fertile Crescent: How they left a legacy of inventions, ideas, and religious beliefs that still influence us.Ancient Egypt and Kush: understanding how through trade and conquest, Egyptian civilization spread its influence through parts of Africa, Asia, and the Mediterranean world.Early Civilizations of India: learning how the Indus Valley in western India was home to a society that grew, developed, and then disappeared. But other groups followed, foundingreligions, empires, and a society that still exists today.Early Civilizations of China: learning how Ancient China was geographically isolated from the rest of the world, but they developed a textured culture that in some ways was moreadvanced than those in different places.Ancient Greece: learning how the Greeks followed in the footsteps of older societies in Mesopotamia and Egypt in some respects, but established a powerful culture that had a lasting impact on the world.The Roman and Byzantine Empires: learning how the Roman empire dominated the world for about five centuries. After the Western Roman empire collapsed, the eastern half - theByzantine empire - continued for another thousand years.17 Grade 6 Learning GoalsMathematicsDecimals: Determine appropriate operation to solve a word problem containing decimals.Number Sense: Recognize different forms of numbers and be able to use them in calculations.Fractions: Develop strategies to deepen understanding of fractions.Fractions, Decimals, Percents: Use number sense to understand equivalent forms of fractions, decimals, and percents.Measurements: Demonstrate and apply knowledge of formulas.Rates, Ratios, Proportions: Understand and apply basic concepts of rates, ratios and proportions to solve problems.Graphs: Use appropriate graph for given data; Read and interpret various types of simple graphs, including bar, single and double line, circle, pictorial, and tables.Geometry: Understand basic characteristics and properties of figures, including applications in coordinate geometryPatterns, Functions and Pre Algebra: Apply expressions and equations to solve real-world problems.Advanced MathIntegers and Algebraic Expressions: use the order of operations, properties of integers, and exponents to evaluate and simplify algebraic expressions.Equations and Inequalities: simplify algebraic expressions and write and solve both one- and two-step equations and one and two-step inequalities.Real Numbers: perform operations with and compare, order, and simplify rational numbers.Proportions: understand rates, ratios, and proportions to solve problems.Applications of Percent: find percentages using estimation, proportions, and equations.Exponents and Powers: write, order, and perform functions of numbers in standard and scientific notation.Geometry: identify, find measures, classify, and find area and circumference of various types of angles.Coordinate Plane Graphing: graph in a coordinate plane as well as translate, reflect, and rotate figures.Surface Area and Volume: find the surface area and volume of prisms, cylinders, pyramids, and cones.Analyzing Data (w/graphs): create, recognize, and analyze tables and graphs for various real-world situations.Probability: find the probability of occurrence in situations and events. Algebraic Relationships: understand relationships such as sequences, functions, graphs, and polynomials.Excellence, Character, Opportunity

6th Grade Learning GoalsMusicUnits in 6th Grade Music● Develop music literacy (Reading music notation)● Emphasis on singing/playing with good technique● Music Theory concepts● Learn classical/traditional repertoire● Concert preparation● Opportunities to audition for honors groups ● Music History●ARtUnits in 6th Grade Art● Art history● Elements of art ● Principles of design ● Creative use of multiple mediaDanceUnits in 6th Grade Dance● Ballet - Checcetti technique● Modern - Horton Limon and Graham technique● Improvisation/ Creative Movement● Jazz/Hip-Hop● World Dance (Latin, African, Hawaiian, etc.)● Choreography18 Grade 6 Learning GoalsPhysical Education The P.E. curriculum focuses on the integration of physical education into students’ everyday life. In addition to skill development, goal setting, self‐discipline, leadership, and cooperation, the teachers use cross-curricular strategies to reinforce content from other subjects.Units in 6th Grade P.E.● Fitness ● Chasing, Fleeing, Dodging● Toss, Throw, Catch● Striking, Net Games● Cooperative Games● Dance and Rhythm● Kicking● Balance and Gymnastics● Team Work and Team Building● Field Day Practice for EventsSpanishThe Woodward LS Spanish curriculum is designed to develop proficiency in students so that they can use the language in real world situations. Throughout their time in the Lower School, we hope to develop each student’s proficiency in the three modes of communication: interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational. The proficiency target set for students by the end of the year is Novice-High. School counselingThe school counselor collaborates with parents, teachers, administrators, and community agencies to support our students. The school counselor meets with students in a classroom setting twice a month. The school counselor also provides individual/small-group counseling to target students’ specific needs or concerns. The school counselor creates programs based on the three basic domains of development: academic, career, and social/personal development. The school counselor contributes to the students’ overall success by offering a safe and nurturing environment for the students to thrive. The school counselor will encourage: ● Development of the whole child.● Sense of belonging in the school environment.● Positive attitude towards work and learning.● Exploration of coping skills for the students to identify and utilize skills when necessary.● Self-confidence in students’ abilities to succeed in all areas of their lives.SEE learningSEE Learning is a K-12 curriculum that builds upon evidence based best practices in Social and Emotional (SEL) programs, but also expands on them by including important new topics such as attention training, the cultivation of compassion for the self and others, resilience skills grounded in trauma-informed care, systems thinking and ethical discernment. SEE Learning is education for the heart and mind and provides a universal, non-sectarian and science-based approach to fostering the whole child.Excellence, Character, OpportunityUnits in 4th Grade Spanish*I can exchange introductory information with others *I can describe myself and others*I can ask and answer questions about what people do in their free time

6th Grade Learning GoalsEaglesphereIn an environment that encompasses science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM), students learn by inventing, creating and designing, therefore experiencing a deeper understanding of what the true meaning of design should be. The STEAM curriculum at the Lower School integrates thinking, reasoning, and creativity. These skills contribute to students’ ability to work collaboratively, think critically, interpret multiple perspectives, analyze complex data, and understand connections. It is comprised of the following content areas:Coding and RoboticsIn sixth grade, students will build on prior knowledge of coding with algorithms, loops, conditionals, and events. All students will participate in the international Hour of Code and focus their learning on collaboration, persistence, and problem-solving (debugging) techniques. They also will investigate different problem-solving techniques and discuss societal impacts of computing on the internet. Engineering and DesignThroughout all core subject areas in our curriculum, teachers infuse STEAM lessons by integrating technology and the engineering design process alongside content goals. Students will use the engineering design process while working collaboratively and thinking critically and creatively. At a sixth-grade appropriate level, students will: ● Empathize: Discover deeper, human-centered insights.● Define: Develop multiple insights and synthesize into a single problem statement with little guidance.● Ideate: Develop multiple “How Might We” statements and a spectrum of ideas based on the problem statement. ● Prototype: Create a representation of an idea that can be evaluated by others and develop multiple iterations.● Test and Redesign: Real world testing with a variety of users and scenarios.Computer Literacy & KeyboardingAt a sixth grade level, students will ● demonstrate an ability to use technology to research, write, and present information.● key with proper technique. ● key at a minimum speed of 27 words per minute (WPM) on at least 3 two-minute timings. ● key at 2 or fewer errors per minute.● key without using the backspace/delete key on timings.DIgital CitizenshipThe Common Sense Media Digital Citizenship curriculum is designed to empower students to think critically, behave safely, and participate responsibly in our digital world. It uses a spiraled approach to address cross-curricular needs. The lessons are taught within the counseling, STEAM, and classroom settings, and the unit topics include:● Privacy and Security● Digital Footprint and Reputation● Self-Image and Identity● Creative Credit and Copyright● Relationships and Communication● Information Literacy● Cyberbullying and Digital Drama● Internet Safety19 Grade 6 Learning GoalsInformation LiteracyAt a sixth grade level, students will demonstrate the ability to develop good questions, search for information, select sources, hypothesize, critically evaluate and cite sources, and create and share information found.Students will continue to review and reinforce skills from previous grades, and:● use an approved note-taking process.● practice responsible use of technology by following the school’s Responsible Use Policy. ● use all information responsibly and ethically.● identify, locate, and use primary sources.Excellence, Character, OpportunityE-portfolioSeesaw is a student-driven digital portfolio that empowers students of any age to independently document what they are learning in school and share it with their teachers, parents, classmates and the world.Each student gets his/her own journal and will add items like photos, videos, drawings and notes.