COURSE DESCRIPTIONS FOR GRADE 7

English 7
This course covers the following four areas of study: language, writing, literature and
oral communication. Language study involves vocabulary development and the
teaching of formal grammar. Within the writing area, students will communicate ideas
and information for a variety of purposes, using forms appropriate for their purpose
and topic – such as short stories, research compositions, speeches and proposals.
In literature, students will read and/or analyze a variety of age appropriate creative
work (e.g. novels, short stories, poetry, plays, films). As well each student will be
responsible for selecting and reading those novels that will be discussed through
in-class book reports. Finally, within the oral communication domain, students will
generate ideas for their own speeches before writing, editing and delivering these
in a class setting – with the aim of participating in the school’s public speaking
competition.

Mathematics 7
Students will be expected to describe what they are doing in mathematics and
explain why they are doing it. Problem-solving skills will be applied in all the strands.
Mental math and estimation skills will be stressed as well as the proper use of the
calculator. Specific expectations include finding area and perimeter of irregular
two-dimensional shapes, determining surface area and volume of rectangular prisms,
solving equations and evaluating simple expressions, using and applying the
students’ knowledge of probability, operations with integers, and measures of central
tendencies.

French 7
In Grade 7, students listen to and talk about short, oral texts in structured and
open-ended situations. They read a variety of classroom and simple authentic materials
and communicate information in writing for different purposes. Students identify and
use the vocabulary and grammar and language conventions appropriate for this
grade level in oral communication and in reading and writing.

Science 7
This course includes topics from all scientific disciplines: biology, physics, chemistry,
ecology, and design and technology. These are taught through the five strands of the
Ministry curriculum: Interactions within Ecosystems; Pure Substances and Mixtures;
Heat, Structural Strength and Stability; and The Earth’s Crust. The scientific method,
scientific literacy, and research skills are stressed throughout the course.

Geography 7
In order to develop a solid foundation of the knowledge and skills required in
geography, students in Grade 7 are introduced to the concepts and methods of
geographic inquiry. The curriculum also focuses on physical patterns and how they
affect human activity. Students recognize patterns as an essential concept in
geography. As well, students examine the various ways resources are used and the
environmental implications of their use. Students demonstrate an understanding of
the impact technology has on natural resources. As well the study of geography
focuses on patterns in human geography, economic systems, and migration.
Students explain population distribution and characteristics, and investigate how
human activities are affected by these patterns. They examine economic systems
and the relationship between Canada and the global community, as well as the major
types of migration and factors affecting human mobility

Study Skills 7
This course is designed to provide students entering high school with the tools
necessary to be successful students. It will include the teaching of organizational
skills, proper use of a textbook, study skills, note taking skills, research skills, and the
mechanics of writing.

Visual Arts
The Grade 7 art programme is history-based, stressing the viewing and discussion of
important works. Studio projects are based on the periods studied and highlight
important styles and artists from the Prehistoric to Modern art periods. Students have
the opportunity to work with a variety of media. They develop projects using their
understanding of the elements of design.

Instrumental Music 7
This programme aims to develop an appreciation and understanding of music
through playing an instrument in band class. Reading and writing of music and
examining the historical context of the music played, help students understand
cultural connections.

Physical and Health Education 7
In physical education, students participate on a regular basis in physical activities
that maintain or improve physical fitness. They combine a variety of movements in
various games and activities and apply the principles of movement while refining
skills. Students relate healthy living to body image and self-esteem. They discuss
age-appropriate matters related to sexuality, harassment, personal safety, and peer
pressure related to substance use and abuse.

Information Technology
This course introduces students to the use of information technology in a business
environment. Students will learn how to use information in a work environment,
perform electronic research, communicate electronically, and use common business
presentation software. They will also explore possible future occupations in information
technology.