We have already begun working on a unit in life sciences. We will continue, over the next few months, to investigate living things, basic cellular structure and function, genetics and heredity, and finally, ecosystems and biomes.
We began this unit with a review of the basic characteristics of all living things. Now we are looking at cells, their parts, and cell theory. We will conclude by looking at what makes our study possible—the microscope.
Between now and the new year, students will conduct an interview with the oldest family member with whom they can have a face-to-face interview. Many families and extended families will be getting together over the next few months to spend holidays and vacation time together. This interpersonal experience will serve as a teaching and learning tool. It uses a primary source to better understand opinions and attitudes then and now. The end product will be a biography. Students might elect to interview an elderly neighbor or family friend.
All notes and interview responses are due on January 7th. I will collect and assess these prior to students writing final repots. Biographies will be written in class, not at home.
Students will have nearly 50 possible interview questions which they will receive in class on November 25. These questions can also be downloaded from this site. Students are encouraged to add questions of their own and delete those downloaded questions that are not applicable. Students need to ask numerous questions in order to have adequate information to write a substantial story.
All 6th graders are required to write a Young Authors Book. Students were informed about this project on September 8th. We will spend some class time working on this project. Due dates for each step of the project are attached. By September 21st, students should have a basic outline of their book. The final manuscript is due December 7th.
Students are expected to write an original manuscript in their own voice, illustrate the text, and design an attractive book cover to enhance the finished bound book.
As always we will provide many wonderful educational experiences. We have a few dates and destinations locked in and others will be shared soon. We will need you to volunteer as chaperones.
October 29 Chicago International Children's Film Festival, at Facets Multimedia
November 12 Merle Reskin Theater (DePaul Playworks Co.) "Holes"
