Course Description GRADE 7
Advanced Science 7
[ full year ] Prerequisite / Selection Process : Student selfselectionStudents with a high interest in life science topics and strong problem-solving , reading , and math skills . Major Outcomes : Students will use models , engineering , analysis of data and criticalthinking skills to explore and create a deeper understanding of the following concepts :
• Cells
• Human Body
• Genetics
• Evolution
• Ecology This course will address the same Minnesota science standards as Science 7 , but at an accelerated pace to allow for increased depth and integrated use of technology . Projects / Activities : These will include lab investigations , argument driven inquiry , field studies and use of computertechnology . Students will present the results of an experimental project or a research and an engineering project ( Capstone ). Participation in the District STEM Fair is strongly encouraged . Instructional Focus : Students will work individually , as well as in small and large groups . They will be involved in hands-onexperiments , dissections , investigations , model design and creation , engineeringprocess , observations , data collection and analysis .
SOCIAL STUDIES COURSES
United States Studies 7
[ full year ] Major Outcomes :
• Grade seven features history as the lead discipline .
• The interdisciplinary “ Studies ” approach is further enhanced with important government , citizenship , economics and geography content that round-out the study of United States history .
• Learn about people , issues and events of significance to this nation ’ s history from1800 to the current era of globalization .
• Examine the Constitution and the Bill of Rights , and Supreme Court decisions for their lasting impact on the American people .
Projects / Activities : Students create and use detailed maps of places in the United States and conduct historical inquiry on a topic in the nation ’ s history . Instructional Focus : Instruction is presented in a variety of ways : class discussion , smalland large group activities , simulations and the use of technologies .
REQUIRED ELECTIVES ARTS OPTIONS
Students must choose 2 of the 3 art areas
MUSIC COURSES Can choose 1 as an arts choice
Beginning Band 7
[ arts elective , every other day ] students who did not take band in grade 6 Major Outcomes :
• Learn the beginning elements of playing a band instrument .
• Produce a characteristic tone and perform in an ensemble .
Projects / Activities : Perform in concerts and independent practice . Instructional Focus : Group instruction . Instructional Sequence : Upon completion of course , students would enroll in grade 8 Band .
Band 7
[ arts elective , every other day ] Prerequisite / Selection Process : Band 6 or teacher permission Major Outcomes :
• Increase understanding of tone quality , intonation / pitch , rhythm / meter , technique and interpretation .
• Expand instrumental skills playing music from many historical periods and styles .
• Learn improvisation skills . Projects / Activities : Perform in concerts and independent practice . Instructional Focus : Group instruction .
Choir 7
[ elective , every other day ] Major Outcomes : Learn to use the elements of quality singing .
• Sing and perform a variety of styles of music .
• Increase understanding of tone quality , intonation / pitch , rhythm / meter , technique and interpretation .
• Develop vocal skills and musicianship .
16 Middle School Registration Guide