By the end of sixth grade you can expect your child to:

 

1.       Organize and keep track of assignments.

2.       Have an increased attention span enabling them to learn a great deal of content.

3.       Begin thinking in abstract terms.

4.       Master complex tasks both physically and mentally.

5.       Speak and understand some basic Spanish (numbers 1–10, colors, body parts, etc).

6.       Use the computer programs of Microsoft Word, Publisher, and PowerPoint.

7.       Be an avid reader with boundless curiosity.

8.       Read complex text fluently and with good comprehension at close to 125 words a minute.

9.       Write a research paper using basic MLA format.

10.   Identify theme, tone and point of view in a novel.

11.   Write descriptive, compare/contrast, narrative, how to, and informative essays.

12.   Use problem solving strategies to solve real world math problems and write the steps.

13.   Add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions and decimals.

14.   Identify and describe three-dimensional shapes, and find their volumes and surface areas.

15.   Use beginning algebra with variables and positive/negative numbers.

16.   View other adults as role models more than just authority figures.

17.   Look for support and encouragement more than for direction and legislation.

18.   Be capable of mature conversation about serious issues.

19.   Be more selective in their friendships.

20.   Give more importance to their peers’ opinions.

21.   Have more concern for their physical appearance.

22.   Have a greater understanding of the Old Testament.

23.   Defend principles of fairness and want moral explanations to make sense.

24.   Seek to know the history or reasons behind what they are taught.

25.   Expect adults to model their moral convictions.