In Sixth Grade Language Arts, students engage in skill lessons that focus on writing conventions and vocabulary building. They are responsible for obtaining copies of Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli, The Giver by Lois Lowry, and From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsbury. All three books are Newberry Award Books. Students are required to read these books and use the writing process to write several papers including a research paper. Students also develop and present a variety of speeches. Emphasis is placed on recognizing and using literary elements and techniques. (back).