List of 6 items.

• Mathematics

  In sixth grade mathematics, students solve algebraic equations, learning the order of operations, inverse operations, and two-step equations. They investigate probability and permutation, ratio, proportion, and scale. In geometry, students study coordinate plane, transversals, angles, area and perimeter of irregular shapes, and graphing. In class, students use problem-solving, independent and group projects, hands-on work, and class homework review to deepen their understanding of the subject.

• English

  Focus is on the ancient world as sixth graders read and discuss ancient Greek mythology, especially the stories of The Iliad and The Odyssey as foundational literature. They also read and analyze modern poetry and novels that connect to the themes of odyssey literature. Students develop analytical writing skills with emphasis on defending a thesis, organizing ideas, and referencing primary texts. They also write creatively, including fiction, drama, and poetry. The study of vocabulary and grammar includes investigating prefixes, roots, and suffixes as the building blocks of words and focuses on a deep understanding of the parts of speech and on sentence structure (subject, verb, object) in anticipation of studying Latin.

• Science

  In the Upper School Lab, sixth graders develop and apply scientific inquiry skills, measurement, and the scientific method to experimentation. They also develop and use age-appropriate design-thinking skills through problem-solving and STEAM-oriented activities. Subjects include Astronomy: interactions of the earth, sun, and moon, solar system, galaxy, and universe; and Earth Science: plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanoes, erosion and weathering, rocks and minerals, weather and data collection. Students also learn the fundamentals of lab work, including maintaining a lab notebook and proper scientific report writing.

• Latin

  The Cathedral School requires Latin in the sixth, seventh and eighth grades. Students investigate grammar, syntax, and sentence translation through a disciplined approach. They undertake an intense study of sight translations, nouns and cases, verbs and tenses, and vocabulary roots. The course of study includes review of English grammar as it parallels the study of Latin grammar, and uses questioning, textbook review, and drill practice to teach concepts.

• Social Studies

  A concentration on ancient civilizations defines the sixth grade social studies curriculum. Units include Ancient Egypt: development of culture and civilization; Ancient Greece: government, philosophy, and drama; Ancient Rome: building of an empire; and Ancient Latin America: culture, civilization, and connections. Students explore different historical perspectives for critical analyses and incorporate primary sources and technology into a comprehensive research project. The sixth grade annual cultural play in February explores one of the ancient societies from Greece, Egypt, or Latin America. In addition, the social justice curriculum explores global citizenship, the destructive power of stereotypes, and a study of the history of oppression as an anchor to create the mechanisms to dismantle oppression.

• World Languages

  The sixth grade continues the study of French or Spanish, meeting four times during the six-day cycle. In class, language acquisition study includes listening activities, pronunciation practice, and beginning reading and writing. Students practice basic grammar: articles, adjectives, adverbs, prepositions, regular and irregular verb conjugations in present tense, and forming simple sentences. Students build vocabulary and develop beginning conversational skills by exploring French- or Spanish-speaking cultures.