SEVENTH GRADE COURSES

English - Writing, spelling and grammar skills are strengthened. Punctuation, capitalization and parts of speech usage are reinforced. Students are taught to work for different audiences and purposes. Public speaking skills are introduced.

Reading - Comprehensive study of writing and reading skills and appreciation of good literature.  Reading skills are strengthened by the study of elements of fiction, etc. Basic research skills are introduced.

Math - Review and reinforcement of computational skills involving basic terms and shapes will be required; continuation of development of problem solving strategies, reasoning skills, and applying these to problem solving situations. Other topics will include place value, patterns, measurement, geometry, ratios, proportions, percents, statistics and equations.

Accelerated Math - The study of computational skills involving integers, coordinate geometry and probability as well as materials covered in the other seventh grade math classes.

Pre-Algebra - A bridge to algebra which includes equation solving, properties of operation, integers, using algebra in geometry, inequalities, probability/statistics, introduction to polynomials and an introduction to trigonometry. Students should plan on maintaining a "B" average.

Geography - The geography and culture of Africa, Middle East, Southeast Asia, Russia and Eastern Europe. Students will also learn map reading and reasoning skills necessary for continued growth in social studies.

Science - A diverse program covering the areas of earth, life and physical science. Students will experience many science demonstrations and an increase in "hands on" activities.

Health - A positive prevention course teaching skills for adolescents, such as: self-confidence, communication, responsibility, decision-making, dealing effectively with peer pressure and substance use, misuse, and abuse.

Physical Education - A trimester-long course designed to promote physical development of each child and provide a wide experience in movement activities. Students will wear appropriate clothes, tennis shoes and white socks.

Life Tech - A trimester-long course with the following components:

• Industrial Technology - A six-week course in which students will be exposed to the application of technology in the following areas: aerodynamics, animation, automation and robotics, biotechnology, computer-aided design and problem solving, analysis, exploratory electronics, fiber optics and lasers, flight simulation, computer servicing, mechanical power, radio broadcasting and video production.

• Seventh grade will explore several Family & Consumer Science areas through modules and may choose to make a sewing project.

Fine Arts - A trimester-long study of art and music with the following courses:

• Art - Students will use a variety of mediums to create art forms with concentration on the following Principles of Art: Harmony, Repetition, Pattern, Emphasis and Rhythm. Students study the arts of China, Africa, Egypt and the
  techniques of collage as displayed by Picasso. Other areas of study are: Pointillism, Printmaking, Calligraphy and Graphic Design.

• Music - A nine-week overview of basic music concepts. Students develop listening skills and write simple rhythm and melody lines.

Students with a stronger interest in music can choose from the following courses in place of the Fine Arts component:

• Choir - Continuation of 6th grade choral group. Review of good choral procedures, tone production and three-part music reading is stressed. Maximum academic achievement requires attendance at performances.

• Orchestra - Continuation of 6th grade string orchestra. Advanced string techniques will be stressed. Students must provide their own instruments. Maximum academic achievement requires attendance at performances.

• Band - A performing and learning experience for continuing 7th grade band students. Additional experiences will be available for outstanding students. Students must provide their own instruments. Maximum academic achievement requires attendance at performances.