Sixth Grade

In the sixth grade, student schedules include courses in humanities, mathematics, science, spanish, art, computer science, and physical education. In all classes, students focus on collaboration through projects, presentations, and daily work while they also maintain individual learning and accountability.

Humanities

Humanities connects social studies and language arts. In the 6th grade students study geography, history, culture, and literature related to each of the seven continents. Students participate in hands-on projects and reading and writing activities that allow them to recreate aspects of the cultures studied. Field trips are also an integral component of the curriculum and a valuable opportunity to connect student learning from inside to outside the classroom. Read more>>

Math and Science

In sixth grade math, students strengthen their basic mathematical skills and develop their conceptual understanding, problem solving skills, and algebraic thought processes. In sixth grade science, students investigate the physical world and earth systems while developing observational, laboratory and scientific skills. Read more about math>> or science>>

Computer Science

The students begin a three-year program in computer science in the 6th grade. In their first year they focus on basic lessons of hardware, networking, common software problems and problem solving. Read more>>

Spanish

The three-year Spanish program starts at a basic level in the sixth grade. The intent of the Spanish program is to promote an understanding of the importance of learning a foreign language with the goal of students becoming bilingual, a particularly important goal in California where Spanish is the second most commonly spoken language. Read more>>

Spanish for Fluent Speakers

An alternate Spanish program, provided for those who are fluent speakers, focuses on advanced writing and literature. Read more>>

Art

Art is an integral part of the educational experience at GMS for all three grades. The art program integrates fine art and media arts (photography, digital imaging and video production) as well as media literacy. The art program in 6th grade exposes students to a range of styles, techniques and materials while we build their skills and confidence as creative, dedicated artists Read more>>

PE

The PE program for all three grade levels focuses on creating and maintaining a healthy mental attitude about fitness for life. Emphasis is on non-competitive cooperative games in addition to acquiring skills in a variety of sports. Read more>>

Advisory

GMS students at every grade level attend a weekly advisory meeting with a mentor teacher who helps monitor their academic progress and support communication between home and school.

Rotation

There is time integrated into the class schedule for enrichment beyond the regular classes. There are a variety of opportunities offered during this enrichment period some of which are: music and drama, pottery, woodworking, and a variety of clubs-student council, yearbook, and community service to name a few.

Social and Emotional Learning program

Also part of the curriculum is the Social & Emotional Learning program (SEL). Over the course of three years, the SEL program helps students develop such skills as communication, conflict resolution, listening, appreciation of differences, tolerance, self-appreciation, self awareness, and self-expression. SEL provides a supportive and safe atmosphere where the students can discuss many of the challenges that face adolescent girls. In this course they also learn accurate information about health, sexuality, and substance abuse that will help them make responsible decisions about their own bodies and their own lives.