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7th Grade
In the seventh grade, the course of study continues to be more challenging. Students are expected to be responsible for the organization and follow-through of their learning tasks in the various subjects. In foreign languages and fine arts they are given a choice of classes. Basic skill development and reinforcement are still emphasized. This is a time for expanding and exploring their own interests and abilities and for developing an even greater love of learning.
Religion
One trimester is spent studying the New Testament and how it relates to the modern world. Students will look specifically at the four Gospels. There is also an introduction to the literary forms and social/historical context of the New Testament period. Throughout the year, students are involved in a study of the person and teachings of Jesus. This includes a reflection on modern moral dilemmas.
A second trimester is devoted to the study of Social Justice. It is an opportunity to better understand the Catholic teachings about issues confronting society today and to develop a Christian attitude in response to those issues. The class is discussion-based and experientially oriented.
The third trimester is given to the girls' continuing study and discussion of human relationships and human sexuality. The course emphasizes the personal realization of the total sexual identity, personal worth, human dignity and equality, chaste living, and the development of values and attitudes. This course provides a much-needed and valuable forum for students to explore their own development.
English
The English program consists of four main areas of study: literature, vocabulary, grammar, and writing. The literature program is based on the study of four novels, a student selected book, non-fiction, selected poems, and a collection of short stories. Through analysis the students concentrate on reading comprehension, characterization, plot and theme development, and begin to think, read and write more critically and with a growing ability to deal with the abstract.
Students are required to complete a summer reading project. During the school year, students read novels of their choice. Emphasis is always placed on developing or continuing a love for reading. Integration of new vocabulary words into the study of literature, composition, and grammar is an essential component of the English program. English grammar includes the study of parts of speech, sentence parts, sentence structure, diagramming sentences and correct usage of phrases and clauses. Additionally, the mechanics of grammar are studied. An emphasis is placed on integrating grammar concepts and writing skills. Students write in response to literature as well as creatively. Students write for a variety of purposes including response journals, report writing, creative stories, poems and letters. Finally, a writing portfolio is used with emphasis on the writing process. Writing, evaluating, peer editing, revising, and teacher editing and conferencing are all part of the portfolio .
Texas History
The seventh grade history curriculum includes: the geography of Texas, North America, Central America, and South America; the native Pueblo and Plains cultures; early European exploration and settlement in South America, Central America, Mexico, and Texas; Spanish Missions in Texas and the Southwest; the Spanish and Mexican Colonial legacy; the Texas Revolution and the Republic of Texas; the period from early Statehood to the Confederacy; the period from the Civil War to Reconstruction; frontier life; Texas booms and busts in cotton, cattle, oil, and space; and the Texas Government. An emphasis is placed on primary source materials which are read and discussed as a supplement to the text. Significant Texas personalities, including prominent women, will also be studied. Skills which will be reinforced are: reading for main ideas and details, making time-lines, map work, note-taking for precision and brevity, outlining and mapping information, critical thinking, accurate writing, research skills, and oral reporting.
Pre-Algebra
The main objective of Pre-Algebra is the mastery of basic algebraic techniques and their use in the development of problem-solving skills. The course includes integers, number theory, rational numbers, ratio, proportion, percent, equations and inequalities. The students are introduced to calculations in plane and space geometry, probability, and statistics. Throughout the course, the students are exposed to word problems with practical applications and personal finance situations. The laptop computer, calculator and mathematical manipulatives are used extensively to enhance learning.
Science
This course is the study of Earth Science which builds on the process skills learned in Life Sciences. Activities are directed toward gathering analysis of data and use of the scientific method. Topics covered are geology with an emphasis on renewable and nonrenewable resources, meteorology, and astronomy. Lab activities include many hands on activities which encourage conciseness, outlining and mapping information, reading maps, critical thinking, applying skills, problem solving techniques, research skills and oral presentation. A long term extensive and detailed international weather project will be completed. Technology is incorporated using online textbook resources, research materials and interactive activities using the Smart Board.
French
The student is trained to develop her four skills in the target language: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Emphasis is placed on the ability to communicate. The course offers a continuation of the presentation of the civilization and culture of France and other French-speaking countries. In order to reinforce the study of the language, the students enter the National French Contest in March. Native speakers must obtain permission for this course.
Spanish
This course is oriented for students who wish to understand and use Spanish and builds on the course offered in sixth grade. The lessons encourage the development of language skills in their natural order: listening, speaking, reading and writing. It is intended that the student learns to understand and say in Spanish many of the familiar ideas expressed in English, to read about common events in Spanish stories, and to write about them in simple Spanish sentences. Finally, each student is taught about aspects of the civilization, culture, and customs of the peoples of the Spanish-speaking world. Native speakers must obtain permission for this course.
Art
Using higher level thinking skills, seventh grade students will have the opportunity to draw, paint, sculpt, and print while learning about art tools, art techniques, and artists. Art projects coordinate with the Artist of the Month program linking art disciplines to artists who preceded us historically. All students are encouraged to create visual images to express themselves using more advanced skills. Seventh grade art meets four times per week.
Drama
Seventh grade students are offered a full year of Drama which includes projects in characterization (character analysis, character development, and character presentation in monologues and duet acting); production elements (lighting, set design, ticket sales, promotion, and program design); public speaking; and play critiques. This class is structured as a "learning by doing" class with one major production presented to an invited audience. There are five to eight after-school or Saturday rehearsals required as part of this course.
Speech (Part of Drama Class)
Speech students focus on the ongoing development of skills needed for effective oral communication. Students analyze, prepare, present, and evaluate several types of speeches including introductory, informative, impromptu, and persuasive speeches. Speech students participate in interviews, storytelling, oral interpretation, and monologue and duet acting; they also lead and contribute to group discussions and group problem solving sessions. An emphasis is placed on determining the purpose of a speech or communication and using well-planned strategies to achieve that goal.
Choir
In addition to the Christmas and Spring concerts, choir members play a vital role in music ministry by serving as cantors and prayer service leaders. Choir students also compose music using Sibelius software, create multi-media presentations based on original poetry and favorite songs, and research and record informative podcasts based on various music history topics.
7th Grade Physical Education and Health
In 7th grade, students have the option of trying out for an athletics team in lieu of PE class.
The physical education program at 7th grade, will concentrate on giving students opportunity to engage in and develop lifelong fitness activities. Health topics include personal health and hygiene, nutrition, safety and substance abuse. All PE courses are Pass/Fail and not calculated into the student's GPA.
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