Seventh Grade

7th grade students working on computers and smiling

Introspection & Increased Academic Rigor

In seventh grade, students take on more independence and responsibility, building essential skills in self-advocacy and self-management as they navigate increased academic rigor.

Through understanding their unique learning profiles and exploring their strengths, students grow in confidence and cooperative learning abilities.

Throughout the year, students explore questions like “Who am I?”, “How can I grow?”, and “What impact do I have on others?” This focus on introspection and critical thinking empowers them to deepen their understanding of themselves and the world around them.

ETHICS & EQUITY

In seventh grade, Ethics & Equity dives into ethical decision-making and social justice. Students explore topics like fairness, diversity, and equity through media analysis, discussions, and activities. They examine identity and racism using resources like Superman Smashes the Klan and American Born Chinese, building empathy and critical thinking skills.

Students also engage in a Boycott/Buycott project, researching businesses and writing letters to express their views on ethical practices. The course concludes with a comprehensive sexual health education unit, covering anatomy, reproduction, and healthy relationships, aligned with Washington State standards.

HUMANITIES

Social Studies
Students explore Washington state's history through five key units, focusing on land, treaties, and the impact of social, political, and economic changes. The curriculum includes the sacred relationship between tribes and land, the history of territory and treaty-making, the rise of railroads, immigration, and labor, as well as social and technological changes in Washington state through the 20th century to the present day. Key themes include ethical decision-making, understanding historical perspectives, and the effects of state policies on diverse communities, particularly indigenous peoples.

Language Arts
In parallel, students refine their reading, writing, and analytical skills through the study of literature and historical texts. They engage with texts that explore identity, empathy, and ethical dilemmas, strengthening their ability to craft compelling arguments and reflect critically on the world around them. By analyzing real-world scenarios, students practice writing persuasive essays, engaging in discussions, and synthesizing information to develop informed, thoughtful viewpoints. This combined approach empowers students to connect history with contemporary issues and express their insights through effective communication.

MATH

Starting in seventh grade, our middle school math teachers co-teach and co-plan with the support of our learning specialists, offering a dynamic, differentiated approach to instruction.

Students explore key topics including Ratios and Proportional Relationships, where they work with scale drawings and unit rates. They master operations with rational numbers and use number lines to solve problems. In Expressions, Equations, and Inequalities, students learn to write and solve algebraic expressions and equations.

In Geometry, they study geometric shapes, construct triangles, and calculate area, surface area, and volume. The Percent and Applications of Percent unit focuses on real-world scenarios like discounts, taxes, and simple interest.

Finally, in Probability and Populations, students calculate probabilities, make predictions, and analyze random samples. These skills help students build a solid foundation for future math challenges.

SCIENCE

Seventh grade science engages students in four hands-on units, focusing on biology, ecology, energy, and forces.

Biology: Students explore the characteristics of life, cell function, and how organisms interact. They study photosynthesis, cellular respiration, and local First Peoples knowledge of the environment.

Ecology & Evolution: This unit covers natural selection, the fossil record, and how species adapt to ecosystems. Students also explore how humans can positively impact the environment, integrating local Indigenous perspectives.

Energy: Students learn about energy, electricity, electromagnetism, and light. They explore how energy is used and the environmental impacts of different energy sources.

Forces & Motion: Students study Newton’s laws, simple machines, and the forces that affect motion, including gravity. They apply these concepts to understand real-world technology and physical activities.

Throughout these units, students develop skills in scientific inquiry, data analysis, and effective communication. They collaborate on investigations, generate hypotheses, and apply their learning to solve real-world problems.

WORLD LANGUAGE

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