ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
SPRINGTON LAKE MIDDLE SCHOOL
6th GRADE SOCIAL STUDIES OVERVIEW
Mr. Homan
Voice mail: 610-627-6500, ext. 6720
Homework Hotline: 610-627-6500, choose option 3, then enter 8261
E-mail - mhoman@rtmsd.org
Web Site - http://www.rtmsd.org/rosetree/site/default.asp
TEXTBOOK
Geography Alive, Regions and People-Teachers’ Curriculum Institute, 2006 (not used for all units)
MATERIALS
A durable two-pocket folder, colored pencils, pencils (no mechanical pencils), assignment book
(supplied by SLMS–used for all subjects), and Junior Scholastic Magazines (supplied by SLMS)
COURSE DESCRIPTION
6th Grade Social Studies is a yearlong course infused with basic geography skills throughout the study
of the history, economics, government, and physical and cultural geography of 3 regions: Asia, Africa,
and Europe.
GRADING
Grades will be calculated based on total points accumulated during the marking period. Points may be
accumulated using anchor activities, homework, tests and quizzes, writing assignments, projects, class
work, and class participation.
WHAT TO EXPECT
We will read, discuss, and construct meaning from various sources of information in class. In
addition, we will be doing many hands-on activities. These may include debates, writing assignments,
map making, games, artwork, role playing, and other activities to experience and understand the
concepts being taught. Students will be expected to take responsibility for their own work. We will
also spend time learning how to take notes and developing good study habits.
The learning and understanding of concepts and skills will be evaluated in a variety of formats,
allowing students to demonstrate their mastery in different ways. Assessments will be given on a
regular basis. Students will receive advance notice of assessments.
Homework assignments will often connect our classroom learning to the events of the outside world.
Also, homework will help students to responsibly prepare for class discussions, tests, and quizzes.
Students who are absent will be given 2 days for every day absent to turn in an assignment before it is
considered late. (Students who are absent on the due date for an assignment will not receive any extra
time)
WHAT IS EXPECTED FROM YOU (Students)
Come to class ready to learn, ready to participate, and also to have fun.
Please follow these daily guidelines:
 Be in your seat and have your homework written in your assignment book at the beginning of
class.
 Have your social studies folder available at your desk to retrieve and file handouts.
 You are expected to participate in class to help you better understand the material you will be
learning in class.
 Participation includes coming to class prepared and on time, following classroom rules, and a
willingness to participate in class activities.
 MOST IMPORTANT: BE RESPECTFUL AND MAKE EVERYONE IN THE CLASS FEEL
COMFORTABLE, SAFE, INCLUDED, AND VALUED.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM ME
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Coming to class prepared.
Being respectful and fair to all students.
Coming to class with a positive attitude.
COMMUNICATION
Quizzes, tests, and projects – Quiz, test, and project assessments will be sent home for parent
signature. Please take note of the grade before signing, as this constitutes an important part of our
communication. Keeping track of your child’s grades allows you to track his/her progress.
Home Access Center (HAC) – Please check grades using HAC on a regular basis to monitor your
child’s progress. Please be aware that projects, writing assignments, and longer tests will take more
time to grade.
Projects – Project packets are usually sent home for a signature before work begins on a project. Also,
the entire project packet is available on my teacher homepage.
Homework and upcoming assessments- will be listed on my teacher homepage under the heading
Homework Assignments and Assessments.
Direct contact – E-mail or call me using the information provided above and on the school website.
EXTRA HELP
Tuesday and Thursday, 2:55–3:20 When I am available for extra help, I often stay until 4:00.
However, if I am not, supervision is available from 3:20–4:00. There is a 4:10 bus available on
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Unfortunately, my coaching schedule will affect my availability
for extra help.
AFTER SCHOOL LIBRARY AVAILABILITY
Students need to ask for a Library Pass during class prior to doing social studies research work after
school. The library is open every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 2:55 to 4:00 to students
with a teacher signed Library Pass. I encourage and expect students to take advantage of the SLMS
Library.