7th Grade Magnet

The English curriculum, aligned to Common Core and California State Standards, integrates grammar, writing, literature and vocabulary. Specific emphasis is given to written expression, helping the students develop their ability in writing paragraphs and ultimately the five-paragraph essay. In literature, students are introduced to the basic elements of the various literary genres for the purpose of developing an interest in reading and of further developing their reading skills, with special attention given to international writings. Students engage in author study, critique books from cross cultural authors, showcase international poets during a Poetry Slam, and create a digital portfolio culminating their work throughout the year.

 

This course begins with an in depth study of geography and its role in the development of culture. Students then travel back in time to visit the major world cultures of the Middle Ages. The journey begins in ancient Rome and continues through such places as the Middle East, Africa, China, Japan, Europe and Latin America. The development of critical thinking and writing skills is emphasized.

 

This course includes an introduction to the major concepts of modern biology, cell biology, a survey of plant structure and function, anatomy, physiology, reproduction, heredity, the origin of life, ecology, scientific method, evolution, metric system, and social, mental and physical health. Through hands-on labs, the course maximizes students interests while equalizing student access to science tools and technology. The students gain a solid knowledge of the world around them as they learn to think like a scientist.

 

Students will become adept at manipulating numbers, integers and equations. A thorough study of number theory resides in the 7th grade curriculum, allowing students to form a concrete understanding of how and why the basic skill operations work. Students will solve many types of first-degree equations, graph linear equations on a coordinate plane, and they will simplify algebraic expressions and polynomials. Aligned to Common Core and California State Standards.

 

Accelerated Common Core Math 7*

The Accelerated Common Core Math 7 course combines all of 7th-grade math standards and about half of 8th-grade standards into a single, fast-paced year. Students deepen their understanding of ratios, proportions, rational numbers, expressions, and linear equations, while also beginning functions, exponents, and geometry concepts from grade 8. The course emphasizes problem-solving, abstract reasoning, and real-world application, preparing students for Accelerated Math 8/Algebra I the following year. This pathway is intended for students who show strong mathematical understanding and readiness for advanced coursework.