Welcome to Seventh Grade
The seventh grade curriculum follows the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for Religion, Life Science, Social Studies, Pre-Algebra, English Language Arts, and Literature. Seventh grade students are encouraged to develop their leadership skills through a variety of school activities. Students have greater opportunities to participate in Student Council and begin thinking about options for offices as future eighth graders. In addition, they are responsible for hosting a haunted house on Halloween Day and host the 8th grade graduation breakfast and “Send Off” in June.
English Language Arts (ELA)
The seventh grade curriculum follows the CCSS for English Language Arts which includes the study of grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and writing. Saint Isabella School has adopted the Step Up to Writing program for writing instruction as well as the MLA format for all long writing assignments. In addition to utilizing the textbook for short stories, students study several novels such as Raisin in the Sun, A Christmas Carol, and Red Scarf Girl, and participate in detailed discussion of different genres.
Math
The seventh grade math curriculum is based on California Pre-Algebra and focuses on the Standards for Mathematical Practice and Common Core State Standards (CCSS). Students use critical thinking and problem solving skills for all concepts and study linear equations and relationships. Their growing fundamental skills enable them to solve multi-step linear equations with integers, fractions and decimals. Students learn to apply scale proportions, graphs, solve and understand equations, enhance their understanding of geometric figures and use statistical thinking.
Social Studies
Social Studies takes students from the Greek and Roman civilizations, through the Middle Ages, Medieval Japan, Imperial China, the Renaissance, and the Reformation in Europe, to the birth and spread of Islam and Buddhism. Projects include making board games for the China Unit, presenting a Medieval Person Poster, and creating an Instagram Profile for a Renaissance influencer.
Science
Students focus on an exacting and challenging study of Biology and Physical Science. Classes are based on a framework of inquiry-based learning within a highly integrated curriculum. For example, when students are learning about classical Newtonian mechanics in science, they use techniques used to solve systems of linear equations learned in algebra and throughout the year there is a constant effort to find the connections to real life applications for our studies. Students are also encouraged to develop and strengthen their personal discipline, organizational skills, good study habits and most importantly the desire to learn. It is here, in middle school, that all the essential tools of success are introduced for a smoother transition to high school.
Religion
Seventh grade is a year of growth and expanded learning opportunities. In religion, students study Jesus’ life, the church, and the sacraments. In the third trimester, they begin preparation for the sacrament of Confirmation, which they will receive in the eighth grade. Seventh grade also prepares and hosts the All Saints Day Mass with their “buddy class,” the third grade.
Field Trips
Field Trips include: “A Christmas Carol” performance, Ropes Challenge Course Overnight Outdoor Education Trip (Spring 2024), San Francisco Botanical Gardens, and a Chinatown Walking Tour.
Mrs. Claudia Silva
Seventh Grade Teacher
Mrs. Claudia Silva has been teaching over 25 years in Catholic Schools in the San Francisco Bay Area. She believes that Catholic Schools help to develop compassionate, well-rounded, and motivated students. Her favorite thing about teaching at Saint Isabella School is making connections with the students outside the classroom. In addition to teaching the 7th grade curriculum, she is the Student Council Co-Moderator as well as the Speech Tournament Moderator.