Grade 7 Elective Course Descriptions Coding Fundamentals, Grade 7 Students are introduced to the fundamentals of coding. Problem solving processes and the role of the computer in supporting solutions to problems are presented in hands-on activities. Students will learn about computational thinking and introductory concepts to coding. Specifically, how the logistical processes are translated to a language that is constructed and utilized by computer software. Students will also learn the fundamentals designing apps, animations and games. Projects will be tailored to the student's individual interests. Students would be prepared to participate in the Waterloo University Beaver Computing Challenge. Drama, Grade 7 The grade 7 Drama curriculum is intended to help students to develop an understanding and appreciation of drama, as well as the ability to create works using the forms, concepts, elements, and conventions of the discipline. Through exploring drama, students will develop an understanding of the art form, themselves, and others, and will learn about the lives of people in different times, places, and cultures. They will also develop practical artistic skills, critical analysis skills, and a variety of communication skills that will enable them to clarify and articulate their own point of view. Spanish, Grade 7 This course is designed to enable students to begin to communicate with native speakers of Spanish. Students will use simple language and read age‐ and language‐appropriate passages for various purposes. They will explore aspects of the culture of countries where Spanish is spoken, including social customs and the arts, by participating in cultural events and activities involving both print and technological resources. By the end of Grade 7, students will be able to introduce themselves and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where he/she lives, people they know and things they have. They will also be able to ask and answer simple questions in areas of immediate need or familiar topics. Songs, skits, cooking and other language rich activities will be used to experience culture.
Mandarin, Grade 7 This is an introductory course to the Mandarin language. The course will emphasize Chinese pronunciation, the Pinyin system, the Chinese character writing system, and sentence composition. Students will gain additional proficiency in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing Mandarin in practical situations. An introduction to Chinese culture will also be included; Chinese food, traditions, and holidays.
Learning Strategies, Grade 7 This course focuses on learning strategies to help students become more independent learners. Students will hone their personal self-management skills, interpersonal and reflection skills to improve their learning and achievement in school. The course helps students build the strategies, confidence and motivation to gain greater success.