SEVENTH GRADE


Students take four full-year (7-mod) classes: World History, Integrated Science III, Literature and Writing, and Math. In addition, they take single-mod classes in Mandarin Chinese, Hebrew Scriptures, Creative Computing, Physical Education, and Art. They also have a daily X-Bin course.


Literature and Writing of


reading,


This is a comprehensive program that covers the fundamentals


writing, grammar, and


vocabulary. Students study poetry, short stories, and historical fiction and develop their writing and oral presentation skills. The reading and writing assignments in this course are thematically linked to the History curriculum, covering the Islamic world, Asia, Africa, and medieval and early modern Europe.


World History


History 7 focuses on the Islamic world, Asia, Africa, and medieval and early modern Europe. World geography is a key component of the course.


Integrated Science III


The Middle School Science curriculum is a four-year integrated program beginning in 5th grade. Students explore earth and space science, physical science, life science, and engineering. The course is hands-on and inquiry-driven.


Pre-Algebra


This course uses the inquiry-based Connected Mathematics 3 series and emphasizes solving problems in context. We explore linear relationships, ratio and proportion, integer arithmetic, probability, data analysis,


8


and geometry. We also use ALEKS, an individualized online learning and assessment system, to help students learn, practice, and master numeracy and arithmetic skills.


Algebra I


This is a standard high-school level introductory algebra course. We explore topics including equations and inequalities in single and multiple variables, graphs of functions and relations, exponents, and rational algebraic expressions. We also use ALEKS, an individualized online learning and assessment system, to help students learn, practice, and master numeracy and arithmetic skills.


Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra, instructor approval.


Creative Computing This course introduces students to computer science and helps them develop computational thinking and problem-solving skills. We will explore creative computing and coding using Scratch, a graphical language developed at the M.I.T. Media Lab. Scratch makes it easy for kids to create, imagine, collaborate, and share animations and projects. Students will also have an online keyboarding tutorial account to help improve keyboarding speed and accuracy, although the expectation is that much of the practice will take place outside of class.


Mandarin Chinese


The introductory course is designed specifically for the Seventh Grade. Students will experience Mandarin Chinese language and culture through many activities such as singing and arts and crafts. Language acquisition will come naturally as a result of their participation in these fun, immersion-based, activities. Students will learn simple Mandarin phrases as well as simple Chinese characters and gain a foundation for studying Chinese in the future.


Hebrew Scriptures


This course is a study of the writings of the Hebrew People. Through the lens of these Old Testament stories—


the trials and triumphs, hymns and histories—students learn how the lessons and teachings of the Bible can be applied to their own lives. Service in the community is a part of this course and connects to the material in a meaningful way.


Physical Education


Physical Education allows students to develop positive enjoyment of a variety of physical skills and activities. Students are introduced to physical fitness activities as a lifetime goal, and there is additional emphasis on health and wellness.


Studio Art


This is a hands-on studio art experience where students explore various two-dimensional and three-dimensional media as they respond to level-appropriate essential questions. Students are introduced to powerful design concepts, vocabulary, effective art-making techniques, and knowledge of an art-historical timeline. Art projects are challenging, open-ended and involve choice. On Fridays, students have the exciting experience of navigating through art stations. Each year during Art Week, students work with artists-in-residence and visit local art galleries. All Middle School art students have the opportunity of sharing their artwork with the community in quarterly art exhibitions. Overall the Middle School studio class inspires St. Mary’s art students to create and to enjoy the experience of gaining feedback from their teacher, their cohort and the larger community.


X-Bin


Beginning in Sixth Grade, Middle School students have a class each day that’s known as an X-Bin. X-Bins are elective courses that meet daily (or every other day) for one mod. These courses, which are homework-free, give students the opportunity to explore, be creative, and try new things. Some X-Bin courses are offered every mod, while others are offered less frequently, and students can select a different course each mod. Examples of X-Bin courses include Band, Orchestra, Strength and Agility, First Aid and CPR, Sports Skills Clinics (such as basketball and volleyball), Leadership, and Painting.


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