7th Grade Curriculum

MATH 7 (737)

Credit(s)

1

Grade(s)

7

Weight

Standard

Course Description

Math 7 is designed to assist students in mastering the standards, building a solid math foundation, providing for a smooth middle school transition and establishing academic confidence.  This class will provide a strong base as students navigate through the secondary math curriculum.  Course topics include ratios and proportional relationships, the number system (rational numbers), expressions and equations, statistics and probability, and geometry.  By taking Math 7 in 7th grade, students will then take Math 8 in 8th grade and be thoroughly prepared to take Algebra I in 9th grade.  This math sequence will better prepare students for PSSA exams during the 7th and 8th grade.

Prerequisite

Math 6

*Accelerated Math 6 students who earn below 80% and/or do not pass the PSSA test (basic/below basic) will move on to Math 7

MATH 7 ACCELERATED (739)

Credit(s)

1

Grade(s)

7

Weight

Standard

Course Description

Math 7 Accelerated will place a strong emphasis on the continued study of integers, order of operations, variables, expressions, and equations.  Students will solve and graph equations and inequalities, write and solve proportions, and explore geometry, statistics, and graph concepts.  Problem solving will be emphasized throughout the course. Students who successfully complete this course with an 80% or higher and pass the PSSA test (advanced/proficient) will advance to Algebra I in 8th grade.  Students who earn below 80% and/or do not pass the PSSA test (basic/below basic) will be prepared to move on to Math 8.

Prerequisite

• Proficient or Advanced PSSA & 80% or higher in Accelerated Math 6
• Advanced PSSA & 90% or higher in Math 6

ALGEBRA I (735)

Credit(s)

1

Grade(s)

7

Weight

Standard

Course Description

Algebra I is a course that is designed to emphasize the study of multiple representations of linear functions.  It includes mathematical concepts for working with rational numbers, various expressions, analyzing and solving linear equations & inequalities, data analysis, probability, statistics, and polynomials.  Students will use hands-on materials and calculators when needed in solving problems where the Algebra concepts are applied. Students who pass Algebra I with an 80% or higher and pass the Keystone exam (advanced/proficient) should take Geometry as an eighth grader.

Students not meeting this prerequisite will be prepared to retake Algebra I. 

Prerequisite

Advanced PSSA & 90% or higher in Accelerated Math 6 

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS 7 (701)

Credit(s)

1

Grade(s)

7

Weight

Standard

Course Description

English Language Arts 7 (ELA 7) is designed to provide integrated instruction in reading and writing based on the Pennsylvania Common Core Standards.  In this course, equal attention is allotted to a wide variety of literary and informational texts.  The students will read and write responses in various genres, which may include argumentative, informative/explanatory, narrative, research, and text-dependent essays.  Text analysis and critical thinking skills, such as comparing and contrasting different mediums, is a primary focus.  Working independently and collaboratively, students will be encouraged to utilize analytical thought in considering resources and ideas they encounter.

Prerequisite

None

PRE-HONORS ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS (704)

Credit(s)

1

Grade(s)

7

Weight

Standard

Course Description

The Pre-Honors ELA 7 class is a rigorous thematic exploration of various types of literature, spanning many genres and text types.  The course offers students an opportunity to analyze challenging novels, stories, and non-fiction pieces at a more rapid pace.  Moreover, students will strengthen their written expression skills by focusing on grammatical elements and producing organized, highly focused writings.

Prerequisite

Must earn an 88% or higher in ELA 6 Accelerated

INTEGRATED SCIENCE (722)

Credit(s)

1

Grade(s)

7

Weight

Standard

Course Description

Integrated Science focuses on five main units of study.  Unit one is an in-depth study of chemistry which includes: matter and its properties at the molecular level, periodic table, and classification/organization of matter.  Unit two is an examination of the Earth’s geological processes from the structure and composition of rocks and minerals, erosional forces, and Earth’s dynamic features such as earthquakes/volcanoes.  Unit three, meteorology, focuses on the Earth’s severe weather systems.  Unit four is a study on Newton’s Laws of force and motion, velocity/acceleration measurements, energy, and machines.  Unit five is an in-depth study of astronomy including: the history of NASA, Earth and its solar system, galaxies, and the universe.

Prerequisite

None

GLOBAL STUDIES (711)

Credit(s)

1

Grade(s)

7

Weight

Standard

Course Description

Global Studies builds essential skills based upon the content of world history, geography, economics, government, and ecology standards.  During Global Studies, students journey through time to discover a world of classical, medieval, and renaissance cultures.  First, students learn how Greek civilization flourished to contribute many innovations, including philosophy, democracy, art, literature, and theater, that we continue to use during modern times.  Next, students study ancient Rome, the birth of the Republic, and the dynasties of the Roman Empire.  As the school year progresses, students become familiar with the system of feudalism during the Middle Ages and finally examine the religious, economic, social, political, and cultural changes that took place during the European Renaissance.  Throughout Global Studies, students strengthen their cartography, critical thinking, and creative writing skills.  In addition to becoming skilled at how to effectively organize answers to essay questions and to write with supporting evidence, students experience hands-on learning as they analyze primary source materials, role-play, engage in simulation activities, and work cooperatively.

Prerequisite

None

PRE-HONORS GLOBAL STUDIES (712)

Credit(s)

1

Grade(s)

7

Weight

Standard

Course Description

Pre-Honors Global Studies follows the same content standards as Global Studies with a focus on developing the advanced students’ leadership insights.  The course promotes a deeper understanding through class discussion that moves from concrete applications to abstract representations.  Students will be presented with activities that enhance learning by going from simple tasks to complex problem solving and from retaining basic knowledge to the transformational application of ideas and materials.  Students’ interpersonal communication skills are advanced as they engage in dialogue with their cohort as they present ideas and products to the class.  Students gain greater independence through planning, designing, and self-monitoring of a project highlighting one historical figure and his or her leadership style.  Students who earn an 88% or higher final course grade will have the opportunity to select Pre-Honors US/PA Studies their eighth grade year. 

Prerequisite

Must earn an 88% or higher in Accelerated ELA 6 

HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION (782)

Credit(s)

0.5

Grade(s)

7

Weight

Standard

Course Description

The 7th grade Health curriculum, conducted in conjunction with Physical Education, is designed to familiarize students with issues they will encounter during their middle school years.  It is designed to provide knowledge and experiences, which will enable them to make choices which will have a positive impact on their health.  Units covered include communicable diseases, wellness, tobacco, skeletal system, muscular system, opioids, eating disorders, and fitness.  This half credit class meets every other day over the course of the school year. 

The Physical Education program provides each student with the opportunity to participate in a comprehensive program consisting of skill development, lead up games, team sports, and physical fitness activities.  The students receive instruction in rules, skills, and strategies associated with the different sports as well as learning experiences involving physical conditioning activities.  The students will also have opportunities to become involved in life-long physical activities through individual sport units.  The program promotes the spirit of cooperation, leadership, fair play, and friendly competition.  This half credit class meets every other day over the course of the school year. 

Prerequisite

None

CHORUS (792)

Credit(s)

0.5

Grade(s)

7

Weight

Standard

Course Description

Seventh grade Chorus is open to all students who enjoy singing or want to learn more about music in a performance based class.  This course will continue their education in proper vocal technique, music literacy, and choral repertoire.  Students will learn in individual, small group, and large group settings and may have the opportunity to participate in dance, piano, and or vocal solo opportunities.  Please note, as part of this course, students are required (graded) to attend two evening concerts (one in December and the other in May) with the possibility of optional performances throughout the year.  This half credit class meets every other day over the course of the school year. 

Prerequisite

None

ORCHESTRA (794)

Credit(s)

0.5

Grade(s)

7

Weight

Standard

Course Description

Middle School Orchestra is open to all students who play an orchestral string instrument. (violin, viola, cello, bass.)  Orchestra provides students with the academic opportunity to study their instrument, develop their technique, increase their musical literacy, and experience quality orchestral literature through meaningful ensemble performance.  Special attention is given to forming proper habits regarding ensemble routine, resonant tone production, intonation, rhythm, critical listening, and musical expression, through skill study and participation in rehearsal.  Two evening concerts are required (typically in December and May).  This half credit class meets every other day throughout the school year. 

Prerequisite

None- previous instruction is recommended

BAND (791)

Credit(s)

0.5

Grade(s)

7

Weight

Standard

Course Description

The 7th Grade Band is open to all students who previously studied a band instrument.  Students may enroll as a beginning band student with consultation from the band director.  Students will increase their instrumental skills through use of warm-ups, scales, and concert literature.  Additional rehearsals occur outside of class during the activity period.  Two evening concerts (December and May) are required (graded).  Students selecting Band as a class may also participate in Orchestra and/or Chorus during activity period, schedule permitting.  There are additional opportunities for select honors groups, percussion ensemble, and jazz band.  This half credit class meets every other day over the course of the school year. 

Prerequisite

None - previous instruction is recommended