Barbro B. Anthony
Sixth Grade

Linguistics-University of Lund (Sweden)
B.S. Elementary Education-Bloomsburg University
M.S. Education/Technology in the Classroom-Wilkes University

"Sixth grade is a time of change... developmental, intellectual, social and emotional. While nurturing the needs of the adolescent student, sixth grade provides a stable, consistent and positive environment for growth and change, learning, and understanding and applying knowledge. The students will 'learn about their learning' and develop study skills that will prepare them for the transition to middle school. The curriculum is presented with an emphasis on actively 'doing' rather than passively 'getting.' A hands-on approach is followed by a heads-on reflection and an opportunity to communicate and express what was learned. In addition, students are challenged to think creatively and critically, deal with abstract ideas, and evaluate concepts. Our goal is to develop a student who is prepared to learn, willing to work hard, and ready to put forth his or her best effort in academia.

In addition to the core subjects of mathematics, science, social studies, and the language arts (English reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, and literature), sixth grade students are instructed in computer science, physical education, art, and music. A weeklong unit on social protocol is also included in the coursework. All sixth grade students are required to do one major research project that will be presented to the public during the annual Open House.

Several educational field trips are taken during the year, based upon the curriculum, to enrich the students' learning experiences. Several assemblies are attended for the same purpose.

On a personal level, my interests include: learning, teaching, reading, and traveling. My teaching philosophy puts an emphasis on learning and as a teacher, I facilitate learning. The students are my active and willing partners in this exciting endeavor. I find it enormously rewarding to work with students who share my enthusiasm for learning. Fortunately, here at MMI they do. It becomes a privilege and joy to collaborate with these students, as we chart a path toward their future. Beginning in sixth grade, we lay the foundation for future academic achievements by incorporating a study skills curriculum with an emphasis on meta-cognitive skills... a self awareness about one's own thinking and learning. We teach them how to learn."