7th Grade Curriculum

English

The English curriculum integrates grammar, writing, literature and vocabulary. Grammar lessons focus on an understanding of the basic sentence structures and the grammatical rules that follow. The course also provides instruction in and opportunities for written expression, helping the students develop their ability in writing sentences, paragraphs and ultimately the five-paragraph essay. In literature the students are introduced to the basic elements of the various literary genres for the purpose of developing an interest in reading and of further developing their reading skills, with special attention given to international writings. Vocabulary is integrated with each literature unit.

World History & Geography

This course begins with an in-depth stud of geography and its role in the development of culture. Students then travel back intime to visit the major world cutlures of the middle Ages. The journey begins in ancient Rome and continues through such places as the Middle East, Africa, China, Japan and Europe. The development of critical thinking and writing skills is emphasized.

Life Science & Health

The curriculum focuses on life science concepts while integrating many physical and earth science concepts as well. It includes an introduction to the major concepts of modern biology, cell biology, a survey of plan t and animal structure and function, anatomy, physiology, reproduction, heredity,t he origin of life, ecology, scientific method, evolution, metric system, ad social, ental and physical health. There are demonstrations and laboratory opportunities.

Pre-Algebra

Students will become adept at manipulating numbers, integers and equations. A thorough study of number theory resides in the seventh grade curriculum, allowing students to form a concrete understanding of how and why the basic skill operations work. Students will solve many types of firstdegree equations, graph linear equations on a coordinate plan, and they will simplify algebraic expressions and polynomials.

Exploratory Program

International Food & Games

During this ten-week course students research foods from various cultures around the globe. In addition, students research, design and play a variety of games from different countries. Students also produce a food and poetry books as well as a culture and recipe book.

World Literature & Drama

During this ten-week course students write, create and direct their own work in this dynamic and cooperative elective. From filming their own commercials to acting out scenes in plays, to creating a folder of poetry work, each student explores their creative and dramatic side. Highlights of this class include producing a poetry folder, filming poetry theater and directing their own drama created in the classroom.

Introduction to Computers

During this ten-week class students are introduced to keyboarding skills, Internet research methods, and simple application programs such as Microsoft Word, Publisher, PowerPoint and Excel.

United Nations

During this ten-week class students explore the organization and function of the UN Students explore some of the major problems facing today's world and helps students understand the role the UN plays in resolving conflicts. Students complete an extensive research project on a UN country and then represent that country's perspective during a simulated General Assembly. The students embrace the ideals set in the UN Charter and see the necessity for a spirit of cooperation among the people of the world.