Sixth-graders long for independence and their social relationships with peers become more important allowing for solid friendships to be formed. The children start to develop a sense for ‘cause and effect’ and expect straightforward answers to their questions. This is a year of dramatic physical, social, and emotional growth as the children hit a growth spurt, and the beautiful balance, poise and grace of the previous year is challenged by the lengthening of the limbs and awkward movements. Hormones become active and big changes start to happen in their bodies leading to sporadic emotional turbulence.
The children begin to see the result of their actions and develop systematic, logical thinking. The themes explored over the course of the Grade 6 year are chosen expressly to assist with both the inner and outer questioning of the child.
History has cause and effect

The business of English writing
Preparing for abstract mathematics

The science of life within and without

The art of nature, captured

Crafts and handwork activities encourage the children to sew stuffed animals, dabble in origami-folded stars and build a clay Roman aqueductin scale that, when completed, is able to transport water from point A to point B.
In addition to all the new learning areas that are taught in this crucial year, the teacher aims to create social harmony within the classroom where each child learns to take responsibility for contributing to build a harmonious class community. It is important during this year that the child’s connection to the world is renewed and strengthened, and social relationships grow to be healthy and respectful.
