Students in sixth grade are more likely to be able to handle independent or small group projects. To improve their reading, writing and research skills, have them write and design a travel brochure for tourists visiting Egypt's pyramids. The one catch is the brochure must look like an actual pyramid in some way. Allow them to utilize books and magazines in your school library, and complete internet research. The students research will improve their knowledge of foreign languages. While their writing will teach them how to communicate with a particular audience.
You can also use pyramids to teach your sixth graders about ratios and scaling. Before the Egyptians built full-sized pyramids, they likely built models and used plans to guide them through the building process. The sizes on those plans were in direct proportion to the size of the actual completed pyramid. Draw model pyramids for the students and specify the height and area. Present the sixth graders with ratios and ask them to draw their own model pyramids based on those ratios.
Pyramids can also be a great catalyst for teaching sixth graders about ancient Egypt. Though the pyramids and pharaohs housed inside get the most historical attention, a complete history should also relate the daily lives of those in service of the pharaohs. Ask your students to get into groups of four or five and complete research projects on aspects of the lives of the pyramid builders. One group could focus on the size of the builder communities, another on where they were located and a third on their daily lives. The students can consult websites, books and magazines to develop the project, but ask that they present their findings to the class on a piece of Bristol board.
Consider using pyramid model projects for your art class as well. Pyramids may look similar from the outside, but they're actually quite diverse. Each pyramid derives its own signature from its size, the artistic renderings found on its walls and the personal effects found inside. Ask the students to research the visual aspects of the pyramids and then create their own paper mache pyramid. Other students can choose to research the drawings on pyramids and then recreate those drawings or similar ones of their own.