Seventh Grade
Advanced Pre-Algebra
Full Year
Advanced pre-algebra leads to mastery of basic computational and problem solving skills especially in number theory and percentage application problems. The course introduces students to solving two-step equations, graphing linear equations, solving geometry problems, and computing with integers, variables, and rational numbers. Skills learned include analytical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and constructing logical arguments.
Civics
One Semester
Civics gives students the foundations of the structure of government and the election process. Students explore and develop life skills that are key to being a member of American society, including civic participation and political reflection. Students learn how to collaborate with their peers, time management, and presentation skills.
Computer Processing
One Semester
This course introduces students to using a Mac computer. Students learn to use Microsoft Office software, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. The course includes weekly keyboarding lessons. Students also learn to use Apple software programs including Safari and Pages. Skills learned include problem solving, critical thinking, and creativity.
English Language Arts
Full Year
This course uses an integrated approach of reading, writing, and speaking to foster effective written and oral communication. Students explore various forms of fiction and nonfiction writing, such as short stories, novels, informational texts, and poetry. Each unit in the curriculum consists of works from culturally diverse authors and includes the acquisition of new vocabulary, grammatical concepts, writing, research, and more. The course is aligned with national curriculum standards and taught through the lens of a Catholic worldview. Students are required to read one novel during the summer.
Geography
One Semester
Geography is designed to give students the foundations of exploring the world and studying its people. Students learn to interpret the world through the five themes of geography: place, location, human-environment interaction, movement, and region. Students learn how to collaborate with their peers, time management, and presentation skills.
Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life
Full Year
This course gives students a comprehensive look at the foundational teachings of the Catholic faith, in the following areas: liturgy and sacraments, Christian morality, prayer and spirituality, community service, and vocations. Students will deepen their understanding of the Catholic faith through reflecting on how the teachings of the Church and their relationship with Jesus impacts their lives on a personal level and how it enriches their lives in their families and community. Students develop critical thinking, comprehension, and problem-solving skills, utilizing a variety of activities to enrich their understanding.
Life Science
Full Year
This course helps students develop an understanding of basic life science concepts. The focus of the course is basic characteristics and classification of living organisms. Using scientific methods, activities, and projects help to develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Students use the acquired knowledge and skills to develop and present science fair projects.
Math 7
Full Year
Pre-Algebra is designed to give students the foundation of proper form for mathematical expressions and solving equations. Students learn to apply algebraic reasoning with the use of mathematical properties, integers, variables, and rational numbers. There is a continued focus on fractions, decimals, and percentages. In addition, the course introduces basic geometric concepts. Students gain valuable skills such as analytical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and problem solving.
In this course we extend and elaborate on concepts from Novel Studies I, allowing students to deepen their reading comprehension and analytical skills while enjoying great literature. We read various novels both independently and as a class, then complete creative writing, analytical reviews, and other hands-on activities based on our class novel. We also continue to participate in thoughtful debate, critical thinking, and problem solving in group and individual settings.
Visual Art
Full Year/Once Weekly
This course is designed to teach students the elements of art and the principles of design. Students create many hands-on projects in drawing, painting, printing, and sculpture. This class increases student understanding of the visual arts and teaches them how to apply art terminology and techniques. Students meet once a week to cover course material. Projects take on to several class periods to complete, and an electronic portfolio will be available on Artsonia.