7th Grade

7th Grade Learning Objectives

Main Lesson Skills

Students work toward:

• Becoming full and active participants in class

• Transitioning from a primarily feeling-based curriculum to more thinking-based learning

• Engaging in higher academic work and discovering their own creative voice

Language Arts

Seventh graders strengthen their written and spoken expression through:

• Grammar and composition

• Research skills and report writing

• Drama and poetry

• Creative writing and essays

• Spelling and note-taking skills

• Continued development in reading for comprehension and meaning

Literature & History

The historical and literary focus is rich and dynamic:

• 1400–1700: The Age of Exploration and the Age of Discovery

• The Reformation

• The Renaissance and its remarkable figures

Students read, discuss, and write about these eras, exploring how ideas, beliefs, and discoveries shaped the modern world.

Mathematics

Math stretches into more abstract thinking:

• Pre-algebra, including variables and balancing equations

• Ratios and proportions

• Negative numbers and inequalities

• Continued work in geometry, building on earlier skills

World Geography

Geography widens perspectives beyond the local:

• Cultural world geography, with a focus on Africa and Europe

• Map reading skills and understanding political and physical maps

Sciences

Science in 7th Grade is hands-on and conceptually rich:

• Chemistry: combustion, acids, and bases

• Physics: visual phenomena (optics), warmth (heat), electrical concepts, and mechanics

• Human Anatomy: an overview of the nine systems of the human body

Students observe, experiment, and reflect, learning to think scientifically and ethically about the world.

World Language – Spanish

Spanish continues to grow more fluent and functional:

• Conversational Spanish

• Grammar, reading, and vocabulary

• Building confidence in understanding and expressing ideas in Spanish

Art

Art remains a central part of learning:

• Painting and drawing that bring history, science, and literature to life

• Visual work that refines observation, technique, and personal expression

Handwork

Seventh graders work with:

• Hand sewing

• Needle felting

These projects support patience, focus, fine motor skills, and the satisfaction of completing something beautiful and useful.

Music

Music continues to nurture discipline and joy:

• Senior choir

• Ensemble – strings or another instrument (options may include ukulele, recorder, or guitar, depending on the year)

• Performances at winter and spring concerts, building confidence and stage presence

Woodworking

In woodworking, students:

• Use mallets, chisels, and rasps

• Create wooden spoons and bowls from solid wood

They learn tool safety, precision, perseverance, and pride in craftsmanship

Physical Education

Physical education supports both strength and self-awareness:

• Movement classes with cooperative games and sports

• Exercises that contrast heaviness and lightness, mirroring the students’ own changing sense of self and body

Cyber Civics

Digital life becomes more present at this age, so we teach it directly:

• Information literacy—how to find, retrieve, analyze, and use information

• Emphasis on ethical and critical thinking

• Lessons using discussion, decision-making, projects, and role-play

• Focus on responsible behavior with technology use

Sports

Seventh graders can participate in competitive team sports, including:

• Volleyball

• Flag football

• Basketball

• Soccer

These programs give students healthy outlets for energy, teamwork, and school spirit.