Key Math Domains and Topics (Common Core Aligned)
| Domain | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Ratios & Proportional Relationships (RP) | – Understand the concept of a ratio |
Use ratio reasoning to solve real-world problems
Solve unit rate and percent problems using tables, graphs, and equations |
| The Number System (NS) | – Apply all four operations to fractions and decimalsDivide fractions by fractions
Understand and apply negative numbers, including on number lines and coordinate planes |
| Expressions & Equations (EE) | – Write, interpret, and evaluate numerical and algebraic expressionsUnderstand exponents and order of operations
Solve 1-step equations and inequalities
Understand variables and write expressions from real-world scenarios |
| Geometry (G) | – Find area of triangles, quadrilaterals, and polygonsFind surface area and volume using nets
Understand coordinate geometry in all 4 quadrants |
| Statistics & Probability (SP) | – Understand measures of central tendency (mean, median, mode)Interpret and create dot plots, box plots, histograms
Understand variability and data distribution |
| Publisher | Curriculum Name | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Illustrative Mathematics | Grade 6 Curriculum | Inquiry-based, encourages discussion and deep reasoning |
| Eureka Math (Modules 1–6) | Strong progression in ratios, expressions, geometry, and statistics | |
| Ready Math (Grade 6) | Practice-rich curriculum with embedded formative assessment tools | |
| Big Ideas Math | Balanced instruction with visual learning and integrated tech tools | |
| Go Math! Middle School | Aligned with CCSS, includes real-world applications and adaptive digital supports | |
| Open Up Resources | Free and aligned to Common Core, with high-quality tasks and teacher facilitation guides |
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Formative Assessments | Daily exit tickets, math journals, pair-checks |
| Unit Tests | Focused on ratios, rational numbers, algebraic expressions, geometry, and statistics |
| Benchmark Assessments | Given 2–3 times per year using tools like i-Ready, NWEA MAP, FastBridge |
| State Assessments | Required for Grade 6 in all states |
| Includes multi-step problem solving, performance tasks, and algebraic thinking | |
| Examples: SBAC, FAST, STAAR, MCAS, etc. |
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Fraction Models & Grids | To visualize fraction/decimal operations |
| Ratio Tables, Double Number Lines | Help solve proportion and percent problems |
| Algebra Tiles | For modeling expressions and equations |
| Coordinate Grid Tools | Used for plotting points, distances between coordinates, and quadrants |
| Surface Area Nets | Visual models for 3D figures and area concepts |
| Data Graph Tools | Build and analyze box plots, histograms, line plots |
| Digital Tools | Khan Academy, Zearn (MS), Desmos, i-Ready, Freckle, ST Math, Prodigy |
| State | Notes |
|---|---|
| California | Uses SBAC; districts often use Eureka, Illustrative, or CPM Math |
| Texas | TEKS standards include earlier focus on equations and problem solving with variables |
| Florida | B.E.S.T. standards include procedural fluency in ratios, decimals, and geometry concepts |
| New York | EngageNY is commonly used; heavy emphasis on reasoning, statistics, and geometry application |
| Illinois | CCSS-aligned standards; tested using the Illinois Assessment of Readiness (IAR) |
Typical School Year: August to May/June
Math Instruction: 50–70 minutes per day
Weekly plans typically include:
Concept introduction (2–3 days)
Practice/application (1–2 days)
Assessment or enrichment/review (1 day)
Advanced Concepts Introduced in Grade 6
- Fluency with all operations involving fractions and decimals
- Ratios and percent reasoning in real-life contexts
- Negative numbers and all 4 quadrants on coordinate plane
- Algebraic thinking: expressions, variables, solving equations
- Geometry: area, surface area, volume
- Data interpretation using measures of center and variability
