6th Grade Critical Thinking Activities

Transform Problem Solving into an Unforgettable Adventure

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Forget boring worksheets—it's time for a problem-solving revolution. Mission.io delivers immersive, real-world challenges that turn your classroom into a hub of strategic thinking, teamwork, and creative problem-solving. These interactive missions engage elementary and middle school students in hands-on learning experiences that build essential life skills while keeping them excited about learning. Ready to level up your teaching game?

Middle school students celebrating with a high five after solving a problem together on laptops, showing collaboration, critical thinking, and teamwork in the classroom.

Why Choose Mission.io?

When it comes to developing problem-solving skills, Mission.io does more than just teach—it transforms. Our missions immerse students in engaging problem-solving activities that encourage collaboration, critical thinking, and real-world application. With cutting-edge technology, teacher-friendly tools, and a dash of classroom magic, we make solving problems an adventure.

6th Grade Mission Samples

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Sixth | Coordinate Graphing

Brace for Impact

Using their knowledge of coordinate grids, students will protect their town's power plant from an incoming asteroid.

Standards: CCSS 6.NS.C.8

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Sixth | Engineering Skills

Tsunami

When a huge tsunami strikes on Viper 1, the crew will determine the best solutions to minimize hazards and reduce damage.

Standards: NGSS MS-ETS1-2

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Sixth | Forces and Motion

Laser Labyrinth

Using their knowledge of forces, motion, and mass, students will infiltrate Moodoo's stronghold to get a valuable, stolen crystal back.

Standards: NGSS MS-PS2-2

Teacher guiding a classroom mission as students raise their hands and discuss solutions, using laptops and critical thinking to solve interactive challenges together.

What Does Mission.io Look Like in the Classroom?

Picture your students actively listening, bouncing ideas off one another, and racing against the clock to find solutions. With Mission.io, problem-solving isn't a passive exercise—it's an interactive journey where students draw their own ideas, test hypotheses, and build confidence in their decision-making skills.

Test-Drive Mission.io as a Faculty

Before you launch with students, run a mission with your faculty. It’s the perfect way to see the platform in action, spark quality team-building, and get everyone excited about what’s possible in the classroom.

Why Is Mission.io the Best Choice for 6th Grade Teachers?

  • Real-World Learning: Every activity aligns with essential life skills and academic standards.
  • Seamless Integration: No complicated setup—just launch and watch your students take charge.
  • Data-Driven Insights: Track student progress and problem-solving abilities in real-time.
  • Collaboration at Its Core: Teach teamwork, communication, and critical thinking with every mission.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of collaboration do 6th graders practice?

Missions for middle schoolers emphasize analytical collaboration. Teams debate solutions, critique each other’s reasoning, and refine their approach together. This develops both social and academic skills that support deeper problem-solving.

How long does a Mission take?

Most Missions run 30–45 minutes, start to finish. That includes the action, collaboration, and a quick debrief — all in a single class period.

Do I need special training to run a Mission?

Not at all. Missions largely run themselves. Your role is more of a “guide on the side”—supporting students as they problem-solve together. We provide a quick-start walkthrough, a built-in library of short training videos, and even live chat if you need us.

How much does it cost?

Creating an account is free. You’ll get full access to the entire library for 30 days, then ongoing free access to rotating Missions that support our research. Upgrading is totally optional — no strings attached.

How many students can participate?

Missions are built for full-class collaboration. They’re optimized for 12–30+ students working in teams, but we can help you adapt if your group is larger or smaller.

Will students actually enjoy this?

Yes — and then some. Teachers consistently tell us that students beg to do Missions again and again. The stories, teamwork, and “we’re in it together” vibe make it one of the most engaging things you’ll ever do in class.

What grade levels is this best for?

Our library is strongest in K–8 STEM, but every Mission also builds teamwork, problem-solving, and higher-order thinking. That means educators at any grade level can use Missions for collaboration and skill development.

What skills do students practice in Missions?

Beyond academic content, students develop collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and resilience. These “real-world” skills are measured alongside knowledge to give you a complete picture of learning.

Do I need to install anything?

Nope. Mission.io is web-based. All you need is an internet connection and devices — no downloads, no extra software.

Are Missions aligned to standards?

Yes. Every Mission is built around grade-level standards (with our strongest alignment in K–8 STEM) so the collaboration isn’t just fun — it’s academically rigorous and connected to what you’re already teaching.

What hardware is needed to run a Mission?

Each student will need an internet-connected device (laptop, Chromebook, or tablet all work). You’ll also need a projector or large display at the front of the room so everyone can follow the story together, plus speakers or classroom audio. That’s it — no special equipment, downloads, or extra software required.

Start Your Mission Today

Give your students an opportunity to develop problem-solving skills in a way that feels like an adventure. With Mission.io, you can easily bring engaging problem-solving activities into your classroom—no extra prep required. Sign up for a free trial and watch your students become next-generation problem solvers!