Sixth Grade

Sixth Grade at Wheeling Country Day School is a distinctive experience for ten- and eleven-year-olds, designed to spark curiosity, confidence, and independence. Students take on Deep Dives—immersive, project-based learning opportunities—and extend their education beyond the classroom at our Wheeling Park Branch Campus. With access to unique electives such as Cooking, Broadcasting/Podcasting, and DIY Lab–Engineering, sixth graders at WCDS learn by doing, creating, and exploring. It’s a year that emphasizes real-world connections, personal growth, and the joy of discovery—hallmarks of a WCDS education.

About Sixth Grade

We unlock the power in our Sixth Graders to learn and enjoy learning at our Middle School Branch Campus at Wheeling Park.

In Sixth Grade, we continue to provide core foundations in math and language arts, while introducing them to project-based learning that challenges the students to apply all subjects (math, science, history, global studies and more) as they work together with each and on their own.

Teachers work with the students to find problems and work through a proven framework to solve the problem by using a variety of skills, such as (math, science, engineering, reading, and more) to find their own way to solving real-life problems.

English

In English class, students engage in comprehensive grammar, which includes adjectives and their role in sentence structure. They learn how adjectives answer specific questions about nouns, such as “What kind? Which one? How much? How many?” Additionally, the class enjoys reading and analyzing the novels like “Freak the Mighty.” The discussions focus on character development and making inferences about the backgrounds of the main characters. Alongside the literature study, grammar lessons are continuously integrated, covering topics like pronouns and subject identification in sentences. The students also work on book reports, demonstrating their understanding of literary analysis and elements of suspense in writing.

An Emphasis on Character Development

Character development instruction highlighting respect, responsibility, trustworthiness, fairness, caring, and citizenship complements the academic offerings. Each teacher weaves this special program into the class’s regular curriculum.

Pre-Algebra

The fundamentals of Pre-Algebra class focus on building a strong foundation in mathematics. They start with exponent rules, learning how to expand and simplify expressions involving exponents. This knowledge is then applied in scientific notation, which requires further practice and skill refinement. The students also work on multi-digit division, both with and without decimals, honing their arithmetic abilities. Additionally, the class incorporates interactive games and group activities, such as the TETRIS board game and math word problems, to enhance problem-solving skills and mathematical thinking.

The Pre-Algebra class covers various mathematical concepts and operations. They begin with mathematical expressions containing variables and learn how to manipulate equations to solve for the value of the variable using addition and subtraction. The class then delves into order of operations, which includes nested parentheses and exponents. Students are encouraged to practice regularly to solidify their understanding. Furthermore, the class explores scientific notation, square roots, and non-perfect square roots, adding to their repertoire of mathematical skills.

Technology & Culture

While being part of the Wheeling Country Day School community, children prepare for an increasingly global, technological society with language and culture classes as well as technology instruction. Students explore the rich cultural heritage represented by the school’s families. Special school-wide and classroom activities throughout the year expand this understanding of the relationship between self and community. At the same time, students receive computer instruction preparing them for the world’s technology and their participation in it.

Science: Hands-On Exploration

Throughout the year, the science class actively engages in various hands-on activities and experiments. They start the year with a focus on organic versus inorganic substances, examining food labels, and learning about marketing claims. Additionally, the students delve into the fascinating process of photosynthesis and its significance in the world of plants. They learn about chlorophyll and its role in changing leaf colors during the fall season. Moreover, the class has the opportunity to work with a grow tower, conducting experiments and learning about hydroponic produce. They also venture into pH testing and engage in a fun and educational photosynthesis relay race. Overall, the science class fosters critical thinking and encourages students to explore the scientific method to gain a deeper understanding of natural processes.

Sports, Clubs, & After School Activities

Wheeling Country Day School extends its curriculum by offering students a variety of clubs that they may join. Middle School students have the ability to participate in select sports including swim team, cross country, golf, tennis, martial arts, and more.

and active lifestyle.

Sixth Grade Teachers & Staff

Carrie Ochap

Middle School Coordinator

Sixth Grade Sixth Grade at Wheeling Country Day School is a distinctive experience for ten- and eleven-year-olds, designed to spark curiosity, confidence, and independence. Students take on Deep Dives—immersive, project-based learning opportunities—and extend their education beyond the classroom at our Wheeling Park Branch Campus. With …