7th Grade Science

The science course for seventh grade contains components of life, physical, and earth/space sciences. It is designed to engage thought processes necessary to build a foundation, which encourages all students to further enhance their understanding of, and appreciation for the basic concepts of science. The students will research, examine, experiment, and draw conclusions about various science themes through demonstrations, virtual simulations, and laboratory activities. The Science Safety Manual Grades 6-12 guidelines must be adhered to whenever experiments, laboratory activities, and hands-on activities are performed.

The order of the course work is very important. In order to graduate, students must pass a series of tests. The foundation for the science parts of the testing is laid in grades sixth through eighth. Therefore, the units are taught in a different sequence from how they are presented in the text. Life science is taught in the first and second nine weeks. Physical Science is taught in the third nine weeks and Earth/Space Science in the fourth nine weeks.

A course outline, scope and sequence, curriculum map, video list, and website addresses are located in this document. Also included are the state standards and performance indicators that students must meet for seventh grade. This information is intended to help you teach science concepts and provide objectives and laboratory activities for the year. Additional resources are available within the curriculum and should be incorporated. The technology provided for each chapter should be explored to its fullest potential. The websites for the text and the key words for each chapter are listed in the scope and sequence under technology and demonstrations.
In this document are the following abbreviations:

IL = Inquiry Lab
LYCE= Labs You Can Eat
WB= Whiz Bang Demonstrations
TE= Teacher Edition
CD-ROM= Interactive CD-ROM included in ancillary materials
CNN:EOE= CNN video, Eye on the Environment
CNN:SIA = CNN video, Scientists in Action
CNN:STS = CNN video, Science and Technology in Society
CNN:MC= CNN video, Multicultural Connections

In today’s society ,discoveries by scientists have led to major breakthroughs in space exploration, cell biology, and technology. In seventh grade science, we are preparing students for a world in which a strong background knowledge of science is necessary. This course is designed to accentuate the critical thinking skills and enhance scientific competencies so the student can fully develop to his/her maximum potential. The course work is designed to utilize and heighten cognitive abilities through knowledge and concept attainment. Laboratory experiences will emphasize problem solving, gathering information, observing, analyzing, and decision-making. It is crafted to examine the nature of scientific enterprise, to evaluate the historical and current relationship of science and society, and to broaden the horizons of each student.

Shelby County Schools provides comprehensive course work that engages each student in the understanding of basic scientific processes and principles; provides hands-on experiences, incorporates technology, and promotes self directed inquiry skills. The programs are crafted to clarify the primary significance of science as a “real world” catalyst for life changes.

The students within Shelby County Schools who require modifications due to their Individualized Education Program (IEP) are legally entitled to curriculum adjustment. An IEP is a legal document which must be followed in accordance with the laws set forth by the federal government, state statutes and Shelby County Schools’ policy.

All educators must examine the student’s IEP to determine exactly what modifications are necessary to meet the student’s educational needs. For example, many IEP’s require extended time for student reading, writing, test taking, and other assignments. However, it is not a question of whether the IEP should be followed, rather, it is a question of how best to effectively implement the required modifications of the IEP to benefit the student. Educators should read each student’s IEP and review curriculum plans. Interviewing the students individually provides an excellent means of finding techniques to maximize the student’s educational progress. School resource departments are also invaluable resources.