Back to School Information

BACK TO SCHOOL INFORMATION

 PLEASE REFER TO THIS THOUGHOUT THE YEAR
 

Students entering Grade 6 will need to read the following book over the summer and to be prepared to bring a copy of the book to class:

 Al Capone Does My Shirts by Gennifer Choldenko

Please read and discuss with your child:
 

• ​All students need to come prepared for class - supplies, completed homework and necessary books and copybooks.

• Students signed a Classroom code of Conduct that lists 10 rules to abide.  This year we will stress the importance of rules.

• A classroom calendar is posted to let the students know important activities and test dates for Religion and ELA classes.

• Any student celebrating a Birthday, we ask that you not bring in a treat. We are moving toward a more healthy lifestyle and better nutritional ideas.  Please celebrate at home and enjoy.

• If any personal information should change during the year (i.e. insurance information, change of address)  please email the new information as soon as possible.

• Any student who is absent needs to make up all class work and homework

• Refer to Parent/Student Handbook for school policies

• Planners are used to keep each student organized; check your child's planner to make sure they are keeping track of their work.

• All consumable workbooks need to be clear coated or covered in paper within one week of distribution (this ensures that books will be in good shape throughout the school year).

• Tests should be in student's test folder and signed every Wednesday.

• Homework is usually around 90 minutes each night.  Homework will be given on a daily basis in most or all subject areas.  This includes both written work and studying.  Time management along with a time line should be in place for all projects.

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Understanding your child!

The average 11 year old entering sixth grade can be:

• Energetic – constantly on the go – eating, talking, moving about.  It is hard for Elevens to sit quietly:  he/she is almost constantly in motion

• Egocentric – usually makes little or no effort to cooperate in even the most minor ways.  Slow to respond and is quick to criticize.  Not as accepting as tens tend to be – they still give quite a lot of trouble at school as far as conduct goes

• Physical violence and verbal violence is a common response when angry

• Rebelling against parent, quarreling with friends and putting themselves first – all of these can make for a discouraged parent

• moods come and go – often elevens may burst into laughter (humor is expanding) and can be silly over almost anything, also there can be sudden bursts of rage; tearful age

• Friendships are important.  Girls tend to have rather intense and strong friendships with much quarreling and making up.

 
Physical Development: 

• changing bodies and hormones; discovering possible boyfriends and girlfriends

• Tensional outlets for elevens:  more specific blinking, sniffing or grimacing

Teaching elevens can be exciting or exhausting or sometimes both.  They thrive on a certain amount of routine – they like to know what is expected of them.  Elevens tire rapidly and, as a result, learning patterns tend to be inconsistent – One day he/she can do remarkably well, the next day appear to be not so bright.
**They enjoy life and take great interest in all that goes on - alert, imaginative, outgoing, energetic, ready for anything
**If you only see the elevens in terms of their difficulties, we will do them a real injustice.  Give them a happy atmosphere of a lively living room and they will rise to the occasion.
These are expressions of a search for self, a self which is trying to emerge – children must do his/her own growing but parents(s) can provide an atmosphere which is conductive to good growth and to be there to give whatever expression of affection is needed. 

Your Ten- to Fourteen- Year Old  by Lousie Bates Ames, Ph.D.

DO YOUR BEST TO APPRECIATE THAT NOT ALL THE DIFFICULTIES THEY CAUSE ARE INTENTIONAL.  TRY TO LOOK ATTHESE DIFFICULTIES AS MERELY THE NATURE OF THE AGE.  



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Back to School Night – September 11, 2019
 

“If you raise your children to believe they can accomplish any goal or task they decide upon, you will have succeeded as a parent and you will have given your children the greatest of blessings.”   Brian Tracy
 

Dear Parents,

Welcome to your child’s sixth grade. We look forward to a fulfilling and challenging year with  your child – one  where we will tap into the various ways children learn.  We will grade the class in a variety of ways that show their true strengths. 
 
Our classes will continue to focus, as in other years of student development, on neatness in each student’s work.  Taking pride in one’s work is a life lesson that your child will continue to learn and knows it is expected of them at all times.  Therefore, please check your child’s homework and make sure it is completed legibly, neatly and in cursive only.  Sloppy work will not be accepted and will be expected to be redone.
 
Also a focus in sixth grade is responsibility for the choices one makes.  The 6 ^th grade will be expected to make a commitment to rules by which to live.  Accordingly if rules are not followed, consequences ensue.  This is yet another life lesson that is of great importance to learn. 
 
We have attached information for you to review with your child.  If for any reason we can help you, please contact us.  Our goal is to help your child be the best he/she can be both spiritually and academically.  You can reach either of us through the school’s website,  or send in a note with your child. 
 
We thank you for the opportunity to teach and guide your child this year.  Saint Andrew School is a wonderful place to be.

 
Sincerely,
 

Mr. Tablezo 6A and Mr. Rippert 6B

 
 
Religion Grade 6 Guidelines Overview:

• Learning about the Old Testament of the Bible and its importance to our faith

• Liturgical Year

• Saints and feast days

• Remembrance of Mary

• Types of Prayer

• Sacramentals

• Social Justice

• Confirmation Preparation and Receiving of the Sacrament

Live Nativity - more info will be given out closer to date

     
                       Tips for good study habits

• Eliminate distractions.  Studying demands all of one’s attention, so turn off the radio, the television, and close the door.  Sometimes ear plugs can help. 

• Get settled.  Prepare a study space by making sure you have a good desk, good lighting,  and a comfortable chair. 

• Start immediately.  When you sit down to study, don’t procrastinate.  In some cases, the material may take longer to learn than you expected.

• Take breaks.  At least once each hour, take a 10 minute break to clear your head and let the material sink in. 

• Sleep.  It is extremely important, and studies show that students who get an adequate amount of sleep are able to concentrate better and retain more.

• Study at the same time, in the same place.  Routine is key to learning.

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Ways for Parents to Get Involved with Your Child’s Education

• Talk with your child every day about his or her school day experiences, successes, and worries.  (Keep at it, even if it seems as if you are the last person on earth to whom he/she would want to speak!)

• Read the school handbook and all notices that the school sends home

• Keep in touch whenever you have concerns

• Attend Home and School meetings, school events, and special programs

• Stay aware of your child’s academic progress.  Test folders go home Wednesday nights.  Review and discuss all assessments with your child.  Please sign (no initialing) and return the next day with your child.  Check www.mystudentprogress.com on a regular basis.  Praise all sincere efforts and accomplishments.

• Wednesday cards should be signed on Wednesday night and returned with your child the next day.  

• Review homework assignments each day and help your child stay organized.  The student planner is key to helping with this.

• Provide learning experiences.  Visit museums, watch educational TV movies and shows, and make the  time to share your knowledge with your child. 

• Volunteer at school.  There are many opportunities to offer your services, and students love to see parents here at school.  

    REMEMBER, YOUR ATTENTION AND INVOLVEMENT PLAY AN                IMPORTANT ROLE IN YOUR CHILD’S SUCCESS AT SCHOOL