United States · Common Core State Standards
7th Grade Science
This course explores the interconnectedness of Earth systems, the complexity of living organisms, and the fundamental laws governing physical interactions. Students engage in inquiry based investigations to model natural phenomena and analyze data regarding the changing nature of our planet.
Energy and Matter in Motion
Students investigate the relationship between kinetic and potential energy while exploring how thermal energy transfers through different materials.
An exploration of how energy is stored and released in mechanical systems.
Students model how heat moves through solids, liquids, and gases via conduction, convection, and radiation.
The Architecture of Life
This unit focuses on the structure and function of cells as the building blocks of all living organisms.
Students identify the organelles of plant and animal cells and their specific roles in maintaining life.
An investigation into how specialized cells form tissues, organs, and complex body systems.
Tracing the flow of energy and the cycling of matter through cellular processes.
Inheritance and Variation
Students explore how genetic information is passed from parents to offspring and how mutations can lead to variation.
An introduction to DNA, genes, and the mechanisms of sexual and asexual reproduction.
Students analyze how environmental pressures influence the survival and reproduction of specific traits.
Earth's Changing Surface
This unit examines the geological processes that shape Earth's landscape over varying timescales.
Students model the movement of tectonic plates and the resulting geological features.
An investigation into how water, ice, and wind break down and transport Earth's materials.
Tracing the transformation of mineral matter through igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic stages.
Atmospheric Systems and Climate
Students analyze the factors that influence local weather patterns and global climate systems.
An exploration of how pressure, temperature, and moisture interact to create weather events.
Students evaluate evidence for historical and modern shifts in Earth's climate.
Human Impact and Engineering
This unit challenges students to design solutions for environmental problems caused by human activity.
Students research the distribution of resources and the consequences of their extraction.
A project based approach to mitigating human impact on air, water, or soil quality.