Sixth Grade (Sixième)

American Curriculum (20% of school time)

Sixième is the “threshold” grade and we recognize that moving up into Middle School represents momentous change for our students. To help students make the adjustment, we offer a curriculum that draws upon the skills learned in the fifth grade, as well as slowly building on new ways to learn that will help them as they advance through the years.

Literature (four hours per week): Students explore literary genres during this critical year, through the study of American novels, poems and plays. Students are introduced to authors of different styles, combining contemporary fiction with the classics — works read in any high-achieving native American English classroom. Class discussion, projects, written assignments are all designed to help students grasp the essential elements of works of literature, and to develop their writing. Creative writing is emphasized this year. Oral presentation is also stressed, to provide students with the skills — and confidence — to address a group in English. Vocabulary is taught in the context of the works read and also with the Wordly Wise workbook series.

History (two hours per week): The Sixième History program focuses on ancient civilizations, from Mesopotamia to Oceania and the Early Americas. We also discuss world religions and include creative projects throughout the year. 

Library and Digital Literacy: Students in Middle School are encouraged to develop a love of reading through regular library visits, book clubs, and reading projects. Librarians also collaborate with teachers to introduce and sharpen research skills to promote the effective use of books and of the Internet. In addition to helping students choose good books to read, the Section’s librarians stress the proper citation of research sources during the Middle School years to foster a respect for intellectual property and the avoidance of plagiarism.

Standardized Testing: In the spring, Sixième students take the CTP5.

Class Field Trip: As part of our Advisory program in Sixième, and to foster community-building between the two Middle School campuses, students spend the day at an zip-lining/accrobranche park.

Advisory: The Section's Advisory program has undergone a major overhaul and now focuses on classroom activities that are designed to develop leadership skills and build a sense of community. 

French Curriculum (80% of school time)

In Sixième, students follow the French national curriculum, which means at least four hours per week of both French and math. Students are also required to study a foreign language (Langue Vivante 1) in addition to their bilingual instruction — either Spanish or German. For more on the content and skills developed in French during the year, please visit the website of the French Ministry of Education.