6th Grade Individuals and Societies

Course Content:
We will study the history and geography of various regions. The regions include
Africa, Southwest Asia, and the Americas. We will introduce students to the
beginnings of the human story. As they explore the beginnings of human
development, students will discover the secrets of these ancient cultures and
belief systems that continue to influence the modern world.
Course Outline:
As Scarlett is an official candidate International Baccalaureate World School we focus on the
following 5 Pillars, or main ideas:
Inquiry - students asking questions, students finding answers
Global awareness - connecting to the local, state, national and international community
Action and Service - learning by doing, making a positive impact
World languages - all students learning a world language
Access and Equity - intentional development of curriculum and supports connected to the needs of

learners

We will use the IB framwork in all of our units of study. Each unit will have a statement of inquiry and
questions that will drive our learning. A test, project, or presentation will be given at the end of each
unit. During the term we will cover material in textbooks, maps, films, and individual and group
activities. Throughout the term students develop a strong understanding of the areas of study both in
the present and past.
General Course Calendar:
Term One - Foundations of Social Studies, Rise of Civilization
Term Two - Egypt/North Africa, World Religions
Term Three - United States/Canada, Latin America
Material Requirements:
- A pocket folder will be used to keep and organize class material
- A weekly bellwork sheet will be kept in student planner
- Writing materials (pencil, pen, colored pencils)

Expectations:
Students will be productive, make smart choices, and follow directions.
Students will follow the classroom rules and expectations. In turn, students should expect from me
respect, kindness, honesty and hard work. Parents should expect their child to be challenged on a
regular basis and an honest assessment of their childs progress. Were going to have lots of fun, too!
1

6th Grade Individuals and Societies

Grading:
All student work falls in to two broad categories formative assessment activities and summative
assessment activities. Formative assessment activities include bellwork, worksheets, mapping
activities, directed reading assignments, reflection assignments, etc. These activities may be
assigned as class work or homework. Summative assessment activities are defined as any learning
activity that will be used to test or evaluate progress. These may include: tests, quizzes, projects,
and formal papers. The final grades will weighted as 50% on formative assessment grades and 50%
on summative assessment grades.
Citizenship grades, or behavior grades, are based on the school-wide rubric. Citizenship grades
reflect students behavior in the following categories: responsibility, respectfulness, positive approach
to learning, kindness, and doing your personal best. 5 is the lowest score for citizenship, and 1 is the
highest score.
Bellwork: Students are expected to be seated quietly writing in the daily planner and starting the
bellwork when the bell rings.
Classwork / Homework:
Homework and class work will be checked and graded periodically. Assignments should be clearly
labeled with name, hour, and date. Late work will be accepted, but may include a late penalty. If a
student feels they need more time, please contact Mr. Kabat before the due date and we can work
out a plan and an extended due date.
Attendance/Absences:
Regular attendance is extremely important for maintaining a high grade. For excused absences,
students are allowed the number of days they were excused past the due date for submission.
Thank you in advance for your support. I look forward to an outstanding year.
Contact Information:
Harn

Email: harnk@aaps.k12.mi.us

Website: msharnscarlett.weebly.com