Seventh Grade Curriculum

Advisory

Course Description

Students in the seventh grade are assigned to an advisor for the school year. This advisor is responsible for the academic and emotional/social development of his/her advisees. Advisees are guided through the process of developing a sense of safety, personal responsibility and community. The advisory program utilizes the guidelines of Developmental Designs to ensure consistency in language and expectations of all students. Discussion topics may vary depending on current issues the students may be experiencing. The foundation of all discussions are based on the following learning objectives.

Learning Objectives

Develop time management and organizational skills
Understand the objectives of TAB and TAB-Out
To have fun
Understand the need for balance between work and play
Desire to achieve academically
Develop of a healthy body image
Manage relational aggression, emotional and physical bullying
Apply conflict resolution skills
Develop constructive and healthy relationships
Desire to contribute to society through service projects
Develop age appropriate social skills
Demonstrate empathy, kindness and compassion
Demonstrate self-control
Make positive choices
Identify one’s value systems
Understand stereotyping
Manage peer pressure and relational aggression
Embrace a culture of honesty and integrity
Take responsibility for self and others
Develop problem solving skills
Develop leadership skills
Understand self and autonomy
Develop into a strong, confident, empowered individual
Develop a feeling of safety
Develop a sense of connectedness and community
Understand how behavior should “look, sound and feel” (Y Chart)

Instructional Methods

Circle of Power and Respect
Service Learning activities
Role playing
Concept formation
Reading for meaning
Guest speakers: Jim Besinius - Bullying
Reflection on readings discussions, videos, etc.
Observations
Individual discussions
Small group discussions
Whole group instruction
Relationship building activities
Games: problem solving, building relationships, self-control, team building
Whip sharing and extended sharing
Greetings

Field Trips/Special Projects

Participation in the development of the Middle School Social Contract
Two dress down days to benefit the service learning projects
Individual advisory service projects such as sponsoring a child through the Child Fund International
Service Learning Project - Feed the Children and The Children’s Dispensary

Algebra 1

Algebra I

Course Description

This course will provide the mathematical background skills and thinking processes necessary to be successful in high school mathematics. We will begin the year with an exploration of essential pre-algebra concepts. Later topics this year will include relations and functions, linear functions, systems of equations, exponents and exponential functions, polynomials, and quadratic functions.

Learning Objectives

Solving Equations
- Simplify algebraic expressions by combining like terms
- Simplify algebraic expressions by using the Distributive Property
- Solve one-step equations
- Solve two-step equations
- Solve multi-step equations
- Solve equations with variables on both sides
- Solve proportions
- Solve word problems involving multi-step equations and proportions
Solving Inequalities
- Graph solutions of inequalities on a number line
- Solve one-step inequalities
- Solve two-step inequalities
- Solve multi-step inequalities
- Solve inequalities with variables on both sides
- Solve compound inequalities
- Solve absolute value equations and inequalities
- Solve word problems involving multi-step inequalities
Relations and Functions
- Identify the independent and dependent quantities for a problem situation
- Match a graph with an appropriate problem situation
- Describe similarities and differences among graphs
- Understand the concept of a functionMatch an equation with its graph
- Use the Vertical Line Test to determine if the graph of a relation is a function
- Understand and use function notation
- Recognize multiple representations of functions
- Determine and recognize characteristics of function families
- Given a graph or equation, identify its function family
Linear Functions
- Find the slope of a line given its graph
- Find the slope of a line given its equation (any form)
- Find the slope of a line given two points on the line
- Find the x- and y-intercepts of a line given its graph
- Find the x- and y-intercepts of a line given its equation (any form)
- Write the equation of a line in slope-intercept form, given the slope and y-int
- Write the equation of a line in slope-intercept form, given the slope and a point
- Write the equation of a line in slope-intercept form, given two points
- Write the equation of a line in point-slope form, given the slope and a point
- Write the equation of a line in point-slope form, given two points
- Translate among the three forms of a line (slope-int, point-slope, standard form)
- Understand and use function notation in two variables
- Sketch the graph of a line given its equation (any form)
Systems of Equations
- Solve a system of equations by graphing
- Solve a system of equations using substitution
- Solve a system of equations using elimination
- Solve word problems using system of equations
- Graph a system of equations and find the intersection point using a graphing calculator
- Graph a system of inequalities
Exponents
- Simplify expressions with zero exponents
- Simplify expressions with negative exponents
- Multiply powers with the same base
- Raise a power to a power
- Raise a product to a power
- Divide powers with the same base
- Raise a quotient to a power
Polynomials
- Classify polynomials by degree and number of terms
- Add and subtract polynomials
- Multiply a polynomial by a monomial
- Multiply a binomial by a binomial
- Multiply a binomial by a trinomial
- Square a binomial
- Find a difference of squares
- Divide a polynomial by a monomial
- Divide a polynomial by a binomial using Long Division
- Apply operations with polynomials to find partial areas or volumes of basic geometric shapes, given the dimensions as polynomials
Factoring
- Find the greatest common factor of a polynomial
- Factor out the greatest common factor of a polynomial
- Factor four-term polynomials using the grouping or box method
- Factor a trinomial in the form x2 + bx + c
- Factor a trinomial in the form ax2 + bx + c
- Factor a difference of squares
- Apply factoring techniques to find dimensions of basic geometric shapes, given the area or volume as a polynomial
Quadratic Functions
- Identify the vertex of a parabola
- Identify the axis of symmetry of a parabola
- Identify the maximum or minimum value of a parabola
- Describe the range of a quadratic function
- Graph a quadratic function in standard form
- Find the zeros of a quadratic equation by graphing on a graphing calculator
- Solve falling object and vertical motion word problems with a graphing calculator
- Simplify a radical expression
- Solve a quadratic equation using the Quadratic Formula
- Solve a quadratic equation by factoring
- Solve a quadratic equation by completing the square
- Solve a quadratic equation by taking square roots
- Choose the best method for solving a particular quadratic equation
- Solve falling object and vertical motion word problems by han

Instructional Methods

Direct whole group instruction in a classroom setting
Individualized, self-paced instruction through computer software
Cooperative learning groups
Teacher created video lectures

Pre-Algebra

Course Description

This course will provide the mathematical background skills and thinking processes necessary to be successful in high school mathematics. We will begin the year with a review of computation skills. Later topics during the year will include simplifying expressions, solving equations, solving inequalities, relations and functions, and linear functions.

Learning Objectives

Computation
- Add integers without using a calculator
- Subtract integers without using a calculator
- Multiply and divide integers without using a calculator
- Add and subtract fractions without using a calculator
- Multiply and divide fractions without using a calculator
- Add and subtract decimals without using a calculator
- Multiply and divide decimals without using a calculator
Simplifying Expressions
- Simplify numeric expressions by using the Order of Operations
- Classify numbers as natural, whole, integer, rational, irrational, and/or real
- Estimate square roots without using a calculator
- Compare two or more real numbers using inequality symbols and number lines
- Write an algebraic expression given a word phrase
- Write a word phrase given an algebraic expression
- Evaluate algebraic expressions by using the Order of Operations
- Simplify algebraic expressions by combining like terms
- Simplify algebraic expressions by using the Distributive Property
Solving Equations
- Solve one-step equations
- Solve two-step equations
- Solve multi-step equations
- Solve equations with variables on both sides
- Solve proportions
- Solve word problems involving multi-step equations and proportions
Solving Inequalities
- Graph solutions of inequalities on a number line
- Solve one-step inequalities
- Solve two-step inequalities
- Solve multi-step inequalities
- Solve inequalities with variables on both sides
- Solve compound inequalities
- Solve absolute value equations and inequalities
- Solve word problems involving multi-step inequalities
Relations and Functions
- Identify the independent and dependent quantities for a problem situation
- Match a graph with an appropriate problem situation
- Describe similarities and differences among graphs
- Match an equation with its graph
- Understand the concept of a function
- Use the Vertical Line Test to determine if the graph of a relation is a function
- Understand and use function notation
- Recognize multiple representations of functions
- Determine and recognize characteristics of function families
- Given a graph or equation, identify its function family
Linear Functions
- Find the slope of a line given its graph
- Find the slope of a line given its equation (any form)
- Find the slope of a line given two points on the line
- Find the x- and y-intercepts of a line given its graph
- Find the x- and y-intercepts of a line given its equation (any form)
- Write the equation of a line in slope-intercept form, given the slope and y-intercept
- Write the equation of a line in slope-intercept form, given the slope and a pointWrite the equation of a line in slope-intercept form, given two points
- Write the equation of a line in point-slope form, given the slope and a point
- Write the equation of a line in point-slope form, given two points
- Translate among the three forms of a line (slope-int, point-slope, standard form)
- Understand and use function notation in two variables
- Sketch the graph of a line given its equation (any form)

Instructional Methods

Direct whole group instruction in a classroom setting
Individualized, self-paced instruction through computer software
Cooperative learning groups
Teacher created video lectures

Art

Course Description

Seventh graders have weekly art classes for one semester. As part of their grade, students are required to keep a sketchbook of drawings done outside of class. Whenever possible, the middle school art program is enriched by visiting artist workshops, all school curricular theme projects, service-learning experiences, and art museum/event field trips. Students also may volunteer to join and participate on the scenic art team for their fall school play. Regional art competitions are introduced and encouraged. Seventh grade art class emphasizes art appreciation through the study of famous artists. Inspiration, style, and techniques of master artists are integrated into each student’s own creative style of work. Perspective, three-dimensional art, painting, and architectural drawing complete the curriculum for the semester.

Students at this age are asked to delve into their own thoughts and feelings, and to express themselves through art. They are further encouraged to exercise critical thinking, aesthetic awareness, responsible and independent behavior, and diligent work habits. Interdisciplinary projects sometimes influence the curriculum, but all instruction is aimed toward giving the students an understanding of the visual arts and technical art procedures.

Learning Objectives

Students will
- learn to produce and apply formal art education elements and principles to her/his personal art works. (Art Production)
- explore, examine, and develop an understanding of master artists and their time periods and cultures. (Art History)
- learn to appreciate, assess, and articulate the language of art aesthetics in a variety of contexts and applications. (Art Aesthetics)
- reflect, assimilate, and critique self-work as well as evaluate master artists and others for the purpose of skill improvement and advancement. (Art Critique)

Instructional Methods

Direct launch instruction
In-class discussion and student brainstorming
Directs
Redirects
Clarification and student feedback
Student/Teacher ongoing dialogue
Hands on demonstration
Small group work
Discussion of master artist illustrations/visual references
Student to student sharing of skill sets
Constructive suggestions and feedback

Athletics

Course Description

Students in seventh grade participate in an interscholastic athletic program that competes against other schools. Classes do not follow a traditional physical education program as students select seasonal sports in which they participate. The coaches stress proper technique and develop sport specific strategies. The non-competitive option allows students the same sport specific instruction without the commitment of after school competitions.

Learning Objectives

Demonstrate mastery for the following manipulative skills: throwing, catching, kicking, and striking
Demonstrate mastery and understanding of sport specific skills for the following sports: soccer, cross country, volleyball, basketball and ice hockey. Tennis and golf (as selected by student per season).
Non-inner school activities include flag football, ultimate frisbee, 16-inch softball, cardio fitness and disc golf.
Demonstrate mastery and understanding of sport specific strategies
Continued demonstration of teamwork and sportsmanship during competitive activities
Understand and demonstrate proper and safe equipment usage

Instructional Methods

Direct whole group instruction in P.E. setting
Demonstration of proper techniques by instructor and students
Whole-part-whole technique
Individualized instruction
Drills and exercises designed for repetition and skill development
Drills and exercises designed for game simulation (tactical understanding)

Field Trips/Special Projects

Trip to Chicago to play basketball against Chicago based teams (girls and boys)
SCS Invitational tournament; volleyball
SCS Invitational tournament; cross country (girls and boys)
SCS Invitational tournament; basketball (girls and boys)
Middle School Olympic Day (Miami/Iroquois teams)

Band

Course Description

Beginning in seventh grade students make a two-year commitment to band, chorus, strings, and/or general music. This course is continued instruction on flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, baritone, tuba, and percussion instruments (orchestra bells, xylophone, snare drum, bass drum, and other percussion accessory instruments). Students receive instruction on tone production, articulation, phrasing, music reading skills, basic music theory, and instrument care. Performances will be highlighted throughout the year.

Learning Objectives

Demonstrate the correct posture to be used when playing the instrument
Form a correct embouchure or stick grip for the instrument
Produce a characteristic, controlled sound on the instrument
Perform clean articulations on the instrument to include; tongue and slur combinations, accents, staccato, legato and forte-piano
Hold the instrument, sticks, or mallets correctly with correct hand position
Perform music for the public with the band
Explain and demonstrate, with the band, the pyramid balance concept
Exhibit personal pride, integrity, responsibility, commitment, dependability, a strong work ethic
Respect the abilities and efforts of others

Instructional Methods

Direct whole group rehearsal

Field Trips/Special Projects

Public Concerts
Guest Speakers and performances

Chorus

Course Description

Beginning in seventh grade students make a two-year commitment to band, chorus, strings, and/or general music. In seventh grade, students have the opportunity to be in a combined chorus. They will prepare for their fall and the spring concerts, as well as a possible performance in ISSMA vocal competition. While preparing for these performance opportunities, students work on the fundamentals of singing in a group, as well as music literacy.

Learning Objectives

Understand music literacy and it’s context within a piece of music
Sing a harmony line
Sing in three of more vocal parts
Perform a piece of music incorporating stylistic elements
Thoughtfully reflect on one’s performance
Blend with multiple voices
Follow along while a conductor is leading

Instructional Methods

Direct whole group instruction in a classroom setting
Modeling of proper techniques by instructor
Individualized instruction
Cooperative learning groups by voice part

Field Trips/Special Projects

Performance opportunities - Fall Concert, Spring Concert, Middle School Final Assembly, and Commencement

Drama

Drama/Theatre Acting and Theatre History

Course Description

Students will learn theatre history through acting exercises and lectures. They will be studying acting in depth using the Stanislavski Method. They will combine the Method and all the skills of movement and voice that they learned in fifth and sixth grade to produce a final scene by using the scene study process.

Learning Objectives

Channel anxiety
Use imagination to improvise action and dialogue
Use and understand the tools of an actor
Use movement to communicate
Use vocal techniques
Appreciate theatre as an art form that reflects the human experience
Use appropriate audience behavior

Instructional Methods

Experiential – observations, role-playing, storytelling, games, acting/movement exercises to improve skills
Indirect – problem solving, reading for meaning, reflective discussion, concept formation
Direct – lecture, drill and practice, demonstrations
Independent study – homework

Field Trips/Special Projects

Performing at the semester Cabaret with the 8th grade class
Opportunities to collaborate with any subject and grade
- 7th grade collaborates with Kindergarten on understanding emotions
Theatre and Language Arts trip to the Stratford Shakespeare Festival
- Attend acting, stage combat, and Shakespeare workshops

Language Arts

Course Description

Students in seventh grade focus on improving their skills in reading, writing, and understanding literature and grammar. Reading will include developing a habit of reading on their own as well as learning the literary components of short stories, novels, plays and poetry. Writing will focus on composing, editing and revising their compositions from the sentence level through paragraphs, essays and creative pieces.

Learning Objectives

Develop a habit of reading
Understand the structure of sentences, paragraphs and multi-paragraph essays
Develop the habit of writing and revising compositions
Develop an appreciation and understanding of literature (short stories, novels, plays, poetry)
Understand the concepts of plot, point of view, setting, theme, etc.
Review and strengthen understanding of grammar and punctuation
Understand the process of writing a research paper
Develop a stronger vocabulary

Instructional Methods

Direct whole group instruction in a classroom setting
Small group discussions and large group discussions
Daily writing prompt as well as composition assignments - writing and revising
Use of class time for free reading and for learning about books and resources in the Tigers' Den
Use of computers for creative projects, writing assignments, and grammar programs
Use of handouts for reading questions and grammar work
Reading parts of plays aloud in class using apps
Vocabulary building through WordMasters

Field Trips/Special Projects

Field trip with science to Merry Lea Environmental Center.
Stratford Shakespeare Festival
Participation in poetry contest and other writing contests
Film viewing of Shakespeare and other stories or novels read in class

Science

Course Description

Students in seventh grade science will develop an appreciation for the natural world and understand the effects of personal choices on local and global environmental systems. They develop a solid understanding of cell biology which includes the study of microbes and cell structures. Understanding that personal choices affect the prevalence of disease is incorporated into the curriculum. Mendelian genetics and genetic inheritance are part of the curriculum. Students make personal connections when they research a specific genetic disability of their choice, present this information to their peers, and respond to audience questions.

Learning Objectives

Identify learning style
Develop effective study skills
Understand personal responsibility for producing quality work
Understand personal responsibility toward developing a positive culture of learning within the classroom and lab
Conduct high-quality, online research
Determine the credibility of a website
Prepare and make presentations to peers
Field questions from peers and respond appropriately
Understand and demonstrate proper lab safety techniques
Understand the importance of scientific literacy
Logically discuss current events in science
Demonstrate proficiency in the use of laboratory equipment
Develop and implement experiments using the scientific method
Input data into Excel spread sheets and create graphs
Properly create tables and charts
Design a graph that best demonstrates the data
Analyze data and communicate results
Microscopes
Environmental Sciences
- includes the biosphere, ecosystems, natural selection, communities, populations, indicator species, energy cycles, energy resources, conservation and sustainability in relationship to the environment
- plant biology concepts, including plant anatomy and tissues, propagation and pollination, plant metabolism, climate zones and growing seasons
- student gardening - may include class garden boxes, native Indiana plants, hydroponic growing, indoor gardening, herb gardening, and greenhouse grow boxes.
- learn different types of soils and how soil affects the planet
- understand how soil types affect plant growth
- learn the nutrients in different types of soils
Microbiology
- understand cell types, cell structures and functions, prokaryotes, eukaryotes, protists, bacteria, viruses, antibiotic resistance, cellular chemistry, cellular reproduction, the immune system and human diseases
Genetics
- solve monohybrid and dihybrid crosses
- read and analyze a genetic pedigree
- understand Mendelian genetics, monohybrid and dihybrid crosses, structure of DNA, gene expression, epigenetic influences on gene expression, transcription, translation, etc.
Substance Abuse
- learn how substances affect the human boy, the dangers of addiction and how addiction affects people and families
- resources for those who are addicted and their families
- learn dangers of being in a relationship with someone that has a substance abuse problem
- effects of abusing substances such as financial and educational

Instructional Methods

Direct whole group instruction utilizing multiple modes of technology
Demonstrations including discrepant events
One-on-one tutoring
Hands-on, inquiry-based laboratory experiences
Problem based activities
Modeling and demonstrating proper laboratory techniques
Laboratory simulations
Integration of multiple software and online programs for assignments and labs
Individualized and small group instruction in the classroom, lab and field
“Flipped” instruction using Khan academy videos, on-line textbooks and videos
Socratic group discussions
Individual and small group projects

Field Trips/Special Projects

Two day, one night field trip to the Merry Lea Environmental Center in Wolf Lake, Indiana
Genetic Disorder Ted Ed Video Project
Cell Organelle Election Project

Social Studies

Course Description

Students in seventh grade social studies will focus on United States history, beginning with a brief review of early colonial history, including the Revolution and founding era, and the principles of the United States and the Constitution, as well as other founding documents and their applications to subsequent periods of national history and to civic and political life. Students then study national development, westward expansion, and social reform movements, various people from the era, and the Civil War and Reconstruction.

Learning Objectives

Understand why people came to the new world
Understand how the outcome of the French and Indian War impacted the colonies and Great Britain
Understand how the early experiences with the British government made the colonists frustrated and want change
Mastery of the outcome of the Revolutionary War and why it was fought
Comprehend the first government of the United States and why it failed
Understand how our current government works
Understand how past experiences and earlier philosophers influenced our founding fathers and helped to guide them in creating our current government
Understand the early successes and challenges of our first presidents
Students will be able to discuss some of the men who held the office of the President and how they shaped the office in its early years
Be able to discuss the Presidency of Andrew Jackson and the effects of Jacksonian Democracy
Comprehend the economic policy of slavery and why the south had it and the north didn’t
Understand the abolitionist movement and the beginnings of the Republican Party
Students will be able to discuss the election of Abraham Lincoln and how it caused the south to leave the union
Mastery of the causes of the Civil War
Mastery of the major battles of the Civil War and their outcome
Understand the effects of the Civil War
Understand the steps of reconstruction and the rebuilding of the south
Discuss the effects of the death of Lincoln and how the south was punished for it
Understand the end of Reconstruction and the return to normal in the south

Instructional Methods

Large group work
Small group work
Teacher led discussions
Individualized instruction
“Flipped” instruction using instructor produced videos or podcasts
Project based instruction Evaluation Methods: • Written tests over units studied
Projects
Homework and note taking
Journal writing• Entrance tickets
Quizzes and other more formal assessment Field trips/Special Projects:
Possible trip to watch re-enactors of the Civil War
Guest speakers when warranted

Strings

Course Description: Beginning Strings

Beginning in seventh grade students make a two-year commitment to band, chorus, strings, and/or general music. This course is designed for students interested in beginning level instruction on violin and cello. Students will receive instruction on tone production, basic music reading skills, and instrument care. Performances will be highlighted throughout the year.

Learning Objectives

Demonstrate the correct posture to be used when playing the instrument
Form a correct bow grip for the instrument
Produce a characteristic, controlled sound on the instrument
Perform clean articulations on the instrument using detaché bowings
Hold the instrument correctly with the correct left hand position
Perform music for the public with the Beginning Strings class
Exhibit personal pride, integrity, responsibility, commitment, dependability, a strong work ethic
Respect the abilities and efforts of others

Instructional Methods

Direct whole group rehearsal
Modeling of proper techniques by instructor
Small groups
Individual instruction
Sound clips

Field Trips/Special Projects

Public concerts
Guest speakers and performances

Course Description: 4th-8th String Ensemble

This course is continued instruction on violin, viola, cello and bass. Students receive instruction on tone production, articulation, phrasing, music reading skills, basic music theory, and instrument care. The third quarter is devoted to chamber ensembles.Students play individually on a part in order to strengthen ensemble skills, improve intonation, and gain confidence. Performances will be highlighted throughout the year.

Learning Objectives

Demonstrate the correct posture to be used when playing the instrument
Form a correct bow grip for the instrument
Produce a characteristic, controlled sound on the instrument
Perform clean articulations on the instrument to include detaché and slur combinations, accents, staccato, legato and forte-piano
Hold the instrument correctly with the correct left hand position
Perform music for the public with the string ensemble
Explain and demonstrate, with the string ensemble, the pyramid balance concept
Exhibit personal pride, integrity, responsibility, commitment, dependability, a strong work ethic
Respect the abilities and efforts of others

Instructional Methods

Direct whole group rehearsal
Modeling of proper techniques by instructor
Small groups
Sound clips

Field Trips/Special Projects

Public concerts
Guest speakers and performances

Technology

Course Description

Students in seventh grade continue to be exposed to the concept of the computer as a tool to assist their learning throughout the day.

Learning Objectives

Effectively use word processing to create, edit and present information
Present data using a spreadsheet
Continue to develop good digital citizenship
Understand what program to use to present information
Efficient use of the Internet for researc
Appropriately cite material collected on the Internet

Instructional Methods

Direct whole group instruction using screen sharing
Video tutorials, both from the Internet and instructor created
Individualized instruction

World Languages

In seventh grade, students continue studying the language they selected at the end of their fifth grade year: Spanish, French, or Latin. The purpose of this three-year course of study is to prepare students to continue at Level 2 once they enter high school. Seventh grade world language classes meet four periods a week, including a combined double period to allow for projects and more in-depth activities.

Across the Middle School World Language program, student performance and achievement are assessed using a variety of strategies and techniques, including daily assignments, lesson quizzes, projects and presentations (including slideshows, skits, plays, impromptu speeches, poetry declamation, musical performances, and visual arts expo), unit tests, and daily preparation and participation.

Assessments are designed to ensure that all five language acquisition skills (listening, speaking, reading, writing, and culture) are developing simultaneously at an age and experience appropriate level. Through self assessment activities, our students are able to evaluate their own progress while identifying their own areas of weakness and needs for additional practice.