What our students should know by the end of 6th grade in: Number Algebra Measurement Geometry Statistics

California Content Standards

Number
Compare and order fractions, decimals and mixed numbers on a number line.
NS 1.1

Use ratios to show the relative sizes of numbers.

NS 1.2

Use proportions to solve problems.

NS 1.3

Calculate given percentages of numbers.

NS 1.4a

Solve problems involving discounts, interest, and tips.

NS 1.4b

Solve addition, subtraction, multiplication and division problems using positive and negative integers.
NS 2.3

Find the lowest common multiple (LCM) and greatest common factor (GCF) of whole numbers.
NS 2.4

Algebra
Write and solve linear equations (such as 4x + 2 = 10).
AF 1.1

Define and use rate.

AF 2.2

Solve problems involving rates, average speed, distance, and time.

AF 2.3

Use expressions to describe geometric quantities (ex. formula for perimeter: P = 2w + 21).
AF 2.3

Measurement
Understand the concept of a constant (ex. ).
MG 1.1

Geometry
Identify angles vertical, adjacent, complementary, or supplementary and provide descriptions of these terms.
MG 2.2

Data & Statistics

Identify different ways of selecting a sample.
SDAP 2.2

Analyze ways results are influenced.

SDAP 2.3

Identify data sampling errors.

SDAP 2.4

Identify claims based on statistical data.

SDAP 2.5

Probability

Represent all possible outcomes for events in an organized way.

SDAP 3.1

Express the theoretical probability of each outcome.

SDAP 3.1

Write probabilities as ratios, proportions, decimals and percents.

SDAP 3.3

Understand how to determine the probability of two disjoint events. Understand the difference between independent and dependent events.
SDAP 3.5

Mathematical Reasoning
Analyze problems by identifying relationships, determining relevant information, and observing patterns. Formulate and justify mathematical conjectures. Determine when and how to break a problem into simpler parts. Use estimation to verify the reasonableness of calculated results. Apply strategies and results from simpler problems to more complex problems. Estimate unknown quantities graphically and solve for them. Use a variety of methods to explain mathematical reasoning. Express the solution clearly and logically. Support solutions with evidence. Indicate the relative advantages of exact and estimated solutions. Evaluate reasonableness of the solution in the context of the original situation. Note method of deriving the solution. Develop generalization of the results obtained and the strategies used and apply them in new problem situations.

How you can help your 6th grader at home with Math.
A parent or caregivers involvement in a childs education is the single most important factor in that childs academic success. Sixth graders spend a great deal of time studying fractions, decimals, and percents of stuff. Students should have their add, subtract, multiply and divide facts memorized. This allows them to spend time learning about fractions, decimals, and percents rather than their number facts. Flashcards, along with your positive encouragement and patience, should show improvement. Do math with your children every day. Can they figure out how to best divide up dessert so that everyone gets equal portions? What are the sports scores, batting averages, and other statistics that interest you and what do they mean? Math is more than random numbers seen one time on a page. Math is our daily life is often on-going, like budgeting and grocery shopping. Let them participate in these routines. Using the family shopping list, have your child clip coupons that match the items. Create a contract that entitles your child to a portion of the savings. After the shopping trip, review the register slip together to determine these savings. Let them calculate their cut, you, of course, verify their math. Let your child see and hear you doing math. Dont hide it or make it sound difficult. Math is a tool that we use daily. Show your middle schooler that math skills are necessary and vital to your life on a regular basis. Explain the checkbook. Have them help you cook. Show them how you use math in your hobbies. Let them help you measure fabric or wood or a garden. Encourage them to help you compute the cost to fill the tank with gasoline or determine how many miles can be driven with a full tank. Finally, send your child to school well rested, having had a healthy breakfast, knowing that you support their learning and expect them to take it seriously.
Revised July2011