GRADE SIX EXPLORATORY WHEEL (Required Elective) 2050 (One per Progress)/Course Program Our education system must adapt to the new technologies and ideas shaping our future in an ever-changing world. By exposing our students to the big ideas and converging technologies of the future, we can expose them to the latest advancements in fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and green energy. Our students will have a unique learning experience. This exposure will help our students develop a deep understanding of the future, and inspire them to make informed decisions that will shape their lives and the world they live in. Furthermore, they will learn how to think critically and creatively, and how to solve complex problems with innovative solutions. We are investing in the future by transforming our students' learning experiences. By exposing them to the big ideas and converging technologies that will accelerate the world by 2050, we are preparing them for a bright future filled with endless possibilities. ART MASTERY This six-week introductory course designed for six grade students incorporates art activities that center on using various media to help guide students to explore basic art concepts. The primary emphasis in student learning is color theory, craftsmanship, and understanding and recognizing what makes a stable composition. In addition, students will participate in class discussions during this six-week course, develop creative problem-solving skills, and connect key concepts between the visual arts and other subjects. DESIGN TECHNOLOGY Students will develop their problem-solving, designing and model-building skills in an exploratory course focused on the Design Cycle. The students will deepen their understanding of using a design cycle by engaging in a long-term project spanning the six-week block. They will engage with a problem multiple times through an iterative hands-on process, finding ways to better solve the problem in their design brief, culminating in a final prototype they test against the requirements. Multiple chances for reflection throughout the block lead students toward a self-monitoring and self-managing perspective. DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP (One per progress) Children are growing up with the power of digital media and technology to explore, connect, create, and learn in new ways. With this power, young people have great opportunities, but they also face challenges and dilemmas. Schools are dealing with the ramifications, including issues such as online safety, cyberbullying, privacy, hate speech, misinformation, and digital distraction. To address these issues, schools are creating a positive culture around media and technology by incorporating digital citizenship education as part of their curricula. Digital citizenship is the responsible use of technology to learn, create, and participate. Common Sense’s Digital Citizenship Curriculum addresses critical issues facing children in a fast-changing world of media and technology. The innovative lessons teach students to think critically and develop the habits of mind to navigate digital dilemmas in their everyday lives. It was created in collaboration with Project Zero at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, guided by research with thousands of educators and parents. EXPLORATORY DRAMA (One per progress) This Theater class is an introducotry class with the emphasis on low-stakes, informal work. Students will explore the various genres of Theater explored in Middle School; Improvisation, Music, Movement, and Cabaret, Collaborative, and Storytelling. This is a great way for students to explore Drama in a fun, safe and supportive way. SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL LEARNING (SEL) SOCIAL & EMOTIONAL LEARNING (One per Progress) Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is how individuals acquire and apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. SEL focuses on developing competencies in five key areas: 1. Self-awareness is the ability to Recognize one's emotions, thoughts, and values and understand how they influence behavior. 2. **Self-management**: Effectively managing stress, controlling impulses, and motivating oneself to set and achieve goals. 3. **Social awareness**: Understanding and empathizing with others from diverse backgrounds and cultures. 4. Relationship skills: SEL equips individuals with the tools to establish and maintain healthy and rewarding relationships. It emphasizes communication, cooperation, and conflict resolution, all crucial elements in our personal and professional lives. 5. **Responsible decision-making**: Making ethical, constructive choices about personal and social behavior. SEL is not just a tool, but a beacon of hope in education and human development. It promotes mental health, well-being, and academic success by helping individuals navigate the complexities of their personal and social lives, leading to a brighter and more fulfilling future.
