Literature 7

A course requirement for all seventh graders, Literature 7 emphasizes the critical analysis of an eclectic array of texts and draws from authors in the classic canon, as well as lesser known indigenous writers. Many genres of literature are studied, such as: short stories, plays, poetry and novels. Traditional grammar and vocabulary development are reinforced through composition assignments. Word processing skills and interdisciplinary connections are promoted through research papers and projects. Additionally, the course’s theme requires students to identify the ways in which characters are changed by the conflicts they encounter.

Communication Skills 7

A requirement for all 7th grade students, Communication Skills will concentrate on the development of written and oral communication skills. Students will begin the year by focusing on prewriting skills; learning the importance of brainstorming, clustering, diagramming, outlining, editing, revising and proofreading. As the year progresses, students will shift their focus to writing the 5 paragraph essay, with an emphasis on what constitutes a thesis statement, reason and evidence, and how to write a compelling conclusion. We will focus on Compare and Contrast and Persuasive Essays. Students will also write personal narratives, short stories and poetry. They will be introduced to the MLA (Modern Language Association) format, and work on computers in the classroom to allow for individual time with the instructor as they outline, research, draft, revise and finalize their writing projects. Students will be introduced to the perils of plagiarism and how to avoid it, how to cite sources and create a works cited page. All final work must be typed and final copies printed at home. The course will result in a writing portfolio at the end of the year, which will showcase the student’s most effective writing samples. Grammar reviews will include lessons on sentence structure, mechanics, word usage, and parts of speech. SAT preparations, multicultural communication skills, and oral presentation skills will also be utilized.

Pre‐Algebra (Honors)

The purpose of the Pre-Algebra course is to create the framework for success in Algebra I.  This program focuses on developing algebraic skills with respect to variable usage and comprehension, exponent and integer rules and their implementation, writing and solving multi-step equations, solving problems involving complex rational numbers, and writing and graphing linear equations.  Students will be challenged to apply these skills when solving problems in areas such as geometry, statistics, measurement, and ratios and proportions.  Emphasis will be placed on application and using higher order thinking skills when problem solving. (Honors students will investigate and perform a more in-depth application of these topics.)

Foundations Math 7

The Foundations course will build student’s knowledge of previously introduced topics. Students will extend their understanding of ratios and proportions, by solving single and multi-step problems as well as a variety of percent problems. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of numbers, rational numbers, decimals and percents and apply properties of operations to these areas. They will continue to work with area, circumference and surface area and build on previously learned skills in the area of data distribution. Students will increasingly engage in the mathematical subject matter to grow in mathematical maturity and expertise.

US History 2

The course concludes a two year study of American History, covering the period from Reconstruction to the present day. Units of study include post-Civil War studies, The Industrial Age, World War I, The Great Depression, World War II, the Civil Rights Movement, and the New Millennium. This course will examine American culture, the people, change to America over the decades, the development of the American identity, systems of governance, economics, international relations, and civic responsibility.   

Science 7

Seventh grade science focuses on the scientific method, cells and heredity, human biology and health, and the diversity of living things.  This course includes units such as cell biology, genetics, evolution, viruses, bacteria, body systems, health, and diseases and disorders.  Students will participate in laboratory investigations, dissections, and simulations to clarify and enrich the understanding of concepts.  Organization, research, and communication skills are emphasized.  Students will complete a variety of projects throughout the school year.

Spanish1A

This course begins a two year journey through the beginnings of Spanish. The emphasis for this year will be basic conversational skills and vocabulary development. Students will explore different Hispanic cultures, including foods, holidays, religions, and music. Rosetta Stone will be incorporated into the instructional expectations for the course.

Physical Education / Electives / Clubs

Seventh grade students take electives in a uniquely, Epiphany-way. Much like Upper School students, seventh grade students select which elective they wish to study. The options include Choral Music, Art Club, Science Olympiad, Drama, and PE. At the change of semesters in January, students have the option to change electives, excluding Science Olympiad, to experience a different class. These courses are assessed on a pass/fail format. Developmentally appropriate, these courses allow seventh grade students to explore their interests and talents in as they prepare for the choices that lie before them.