6th GRADE Course Selection Guide
6th Grade Required Courses
Please review the following information regarding course information and complete the online Course Request form (below) by March 12th, 2026.
- All students will take math, language arts, science, and geography.
- Students may select an advanced course in math and/or language arts. Students will participate in one elective each day. Please select a first choice and second choice option.
- Please keep in mind this is a request. Some request may not be met due to unavailability due to enrollment numbers, teacher availability, etc.
To assist you in making course selections, please review the following:
- Course Guide Video (below)
- Course Descriptions for each Class (below)
COURSE SELECTION FORM- MUST COMPLETE
Course Selection Video Guide
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
CORE Courses
Language Arts: Choose ONE
The purpose of this course is to develop successful readers and writers. Students will interact with both fiction and non-fiction text. Students will develop communication skills through instruction in oral and written communication, grammar and mechanics, vocabulary, and reading.
The purpose of this course is to develop successful readers and writers. Students will interact with both fiction and non-fiction text. Students will develop communication skills through instruction in oral and written communication, grammar and mechanics, vocabulary, and reading. Students should be reading at or above grade level and will be expected to work independently with material at home and school.
Math: Choose ONE
Math
The purpose of this course is to help students learn the value of mathematics in everyday life, become confident in their own ability, and become mathematical problem solvers. Areas of study include but are not limited to: whole numbers, decimals, fractions, ratio, percent, measurement, geometry, integers, probability, and an introduction to algebra.
Advanced Math
The sixth grade advanced math course is composed of students who have mastered the basic operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. The purpose of this course is to continue developing problem solving and critical thinking skill as well as prepare students to enroll in Pre-Algebra as they enter seventh grade. Areas of study include but are not limited to: integers, fractions, decimals, percent, proportion, measurement, geometry and algebraic skills.
Pre-Algebra
* perquisite: 5th grade qualifying test
This will not be an option on the course request form. Students who meet requirement and qualifications will automatically be enrolled.
In order to qualify for Pre-Algebra in the sixth grade, a student must pass the fifth grade qualifying test for Pre-Algebra and must master the basic math concepts along with master of fractional operations. This course is two years advanced for sixth grade level and covers the required objectives for both seventh grade and Pre-Algebra. The purpose of the course is to provide the foundation in algebra, geometry and problem solving so that students will be prepared to enroll in Algebra I as they enter seventh grade. Areas of study include: variables, expressions, integers, solving equations, inequalities, exponents, and probability, percents and linear functions.
ELECTIVE COURSE OPTIONS
You will be prompted to select a first option and second option.
Orchestra (Full Year)
This is a beginning strings class for those students with no experience playing a stringed instrument. A method book and an instument-violin, viola, cello, or bass- are the only mandatory materials used in this course. The student will be provided technical training to prepare for two concerts given during the year. This training will provide a solid foundation from which the students will be able to continue playing in the orchestra in high school.
Band (Full Year)
Art (Full Year)
This course will cover the fundamentals of color, perspective, composition, and technique through various painting and print-making media.
Choir (Full Year)
This course is specifically designed for students who have an interest in exploring performance arts. Students will have the opportunity to develop vocal skills, read music, and learn about all facets of musical performance. Students will be required to participate in performances outside of the school.
STEM Exploration and Robotics
This course provides students opportunities for hands-on challenges, designing, building, and problem-solving through various project-based learning experiences.
STEM Exploration (1 semester)
Students will participate in a semester STEM Exploration class where they will learn various concepts in engineering such as: balance, flight, buoyancy, electricity/circuitry, construction and basic coding to develop a webpage.
Robotics (1 semester)
Students will participate in a semester course where they will dive into designing, building, and programming robots using the VEX IQ robotics system. Students will participate in groups to build and test increasingly more complex robots to complete a variety of tasks.
*Students selecting this option will participate in both courses.
Redhawk Movement: PE & Drama
PE (1 semester)
Physical Education promotes fitness, teamwork, and healthy habits through games, sports, and movement activities.
DRAMA (1 Semester)
Drama develops confidence, creativity, and communication through theatre games, reading and performing plays aloud, exploring story elements, and creating performances that include rehearsal and memorization.
*Students selecting this option will participate in both courses.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
Counselor Contact Information
Please feel free to email or contact one of our counselors:
Lisa Stuckey: stuckey.aelica@unionps.org
Holly Grusendorf: grusendorf.holly@unionps.org
Courtney McCartney: mccartney.courtney@unionps.org
In-person Course Selection Assistance
Our Community Schools Coordinator will be available on Monday, March 9th, to answer questions and assist with online enrollment. Computers and Translators will be available as well. Please feel free to drop by the Union 6th Grade Center from 10:00-2:00 p.m.
Please reach out to Community School Coordinator Matt McAfee mcafee.matt@unionps.org
6th Grade Promotional Video: Ready, Set SOAR!
View video below to learn more about what your 6th graders school day will look like.
If you would like to tour the 6th grade center, ask questions or learn more, please choose a date below to visit.