7th Grade Program of Studies 7th Grade Life Science: Seventh grade Science is an introduction to Biology. Through many lab experiences and class work, students will become familiar with the traits of living things. They will learn about the structure of cells, viruses, and bacteria. Students will be able to distinguish between and know the characteristics of the five kingdoms of life. We will also explore how genetic traits are inherited. In addition, students will learn how the systems of the body work and interact. 7th Grade English: The seventh grade English experience is designed to include many facets of the language arts. Students will learn all aspects of reading, using literature of different genres, to enhance skills. Writing is assigned in conjunction with the literature in our curriculum as well as other assigned topics. Related activities include speech, projects, and independent reading. The year helps prepare students to become organized and independent and confident in their studies. 7th Grade Math: Math 7 students explore Mathematics in real world situations through authentic data in charts, tables, graphs, models of math in the real world, and problem solving in real life context. Students develop fundamental mathematical ideas and methods by reasoning about applied problems while developing a true understanding of decimals, percents, fractions, mixed numbers, measurements, expressions, equations, number properties, patterns, and integers. Supplemental technology learning aides include the use of calculators and computer applications. 7th Grade Pre-Algebra: This one-year course includes all the topics taught in Math 7 and Math 8. A student selected for this course must be self-motivated and have demonstrated high arithmetic ability and achievement. The student must be able to work in a fast pace atmosphere and at an abstract level. Topics include the properties of the real number system, problem solving techniques, measurement of two and three dimensional figures, probability, data analysis, and graphing. Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation, high standardized test scores in mathe­mat­ics and verbal reasoning, and passing a placement test. 7th Grade Social Studies: This course focuses on six specific areas in American History. These are Colonization, Revolution and Republic, Westward Expansion, Sectional Conflict, Industrialization and Labor, and America in the Modern Age. An emphasis on Geography is integrated throughout each section of study. Course work relies on primary sources, readings, and The American Nation textbook. Students are expected to take notes, analyze and interpret events, and compare these with the present day. 7th Grade Computers Activity - Word and Excel: This course provides students with the opportunities to use word-processing and spreadsheet software in managing and displaying information derived from real world situations. Students gain word processing and spreadsheet skills while operating the tools in an integrated Microsoft Windows environment. 7th Grade Activity - Directed/Enriched Reading: Reading activity encourages and increases student creativity and communication skills. Students work both individually and in small groups on assignments that rely on readings from class and outside sources. Students are expected to participate in class discussions, and share their thoughts with the class. 7th Grade Activity - Creative Writing/Projects: Creative Writing activity encourages and increases student creativity and communication skills. Students work both individually and in groups on assignments. Students are expected to participate in class discussions, contribute to the peer editing process, and share their work with the class. 7th Grade Activity - Forensics: The Forensics experience provides students with a variety of speaking opportunities which help them develop communication skills through speech, and listening. Students gain presentation skills in many areas: original oratory; interpretation of literature, and extemporaneous speaking. 7th Grade Activity - Research: Research 7 is one section in the interdisciplinary Seventh Grade Cycle Program. Students in Research 7 write thesis-based research papers that run approximately five pages in length. Students learn to move through the research and writing process by working individually and in groups. The course orients students to the resources of the Library Information Center at Glen Ridge High School and prepares students to use those resources effectively for academic pursuits and personal interests. 7th Grade Visual Arts Cycle: Art is a necessary component of our lives. Throughout the seventh grade, Art Cycle students will be involved in activities that contribute to the development of a well-rounded person, including cognition, critical analysis, and psycho-motor skills. Students acquire a knowledge of skills that increase aesthetic awareness in the visual arts, and they will recognize the impact of the visual arts in daily life. They will improve their critical thinking skills through art critiques and will concentrate on problem-solving strategies, resourcefulness, and reasoning. Seventh graders are encouraged to develop and strengthen imagination and creativity, developing an understanding of the relationship between concepts and solutions. The seventh grade Art Cycle Class provides avenues of expression through artistic creation that encourages personal growth and enhance self-esteem. 7th Grade General Music Cycle: This course is offered as a continuation of our classroom music program. The students participate in a variety of experiences including singing, playing classroom instruments, composing their own music, and learning to critique the music and performance of others. The students express themselves through the performance of a wide variety of music. Through the written symbols of music they share in the ideas of those that came before them and also allow themselves the opportunity of sharing the music of their time and culture with those that will come in the future. 7th Grade Developmental Guidance/Study Skills Cycle: The seventh grade guidance course entitled "School Tools: Strategies for Succeeding in School" will focus on improving academic pursuits, resolving conflict peacefully and developing assertiveness skills. Students through group discussion, problem-solving and cooperative activities such as role-playing and class projects will explore the following areas: How to study Improving Grades Listening Attentively Problem solving Accepting Difference Developing Self-Control Resisting Group Pressure Goal Setting Prioritizing Decision Making Using Persuasion Keeping Composure Grades 7 & 8 Synergistics Cycle: With an ever-increasing demand for and usage of technology today, the Synergistics Lab offers students a hands-on experience, utilizing technology tools to explore topics in physical and life science. Appropriate yet high-tech gear, computers, videotapes and hands-on lab experiences guide students learning. Problem-solving strategies perpetuate all eleven modules as well as all other classroom activities. The program design develops personal skills and cooperative learning techniques. Students rotate through 3 of 11 available modules during 7th or 8th grade. Each module lasts for 7 plus days. The eleven module titles and descriptions include: Applied Physics, Awesome Animals, Biotechnology, Body Defenses, Engineering Bridges, Engineering Towers, Light Technology, Great Green, Robots, Rocketry and Space, and Video Broadcasting.