Seventh Grade Course Guide 2022 - 2023
UMS-Wright PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Our School...Our Mission The mission of UMS-Wright is for the UMS-Wright Family to educate all students to their highest potential in mind, body and spirit and to produce in each student character of the highest possible order. Our Founder, Dr. Julius T. Wright, instituted our tradition of excellence in 1893. Each day we strive to maintain the high principles and ideals established by Dr. Wright. Our mission drives each decision we make, allowing UMS-Wright Preparatory School to provide a variety of opportunities for our students to excel to their greatest potential in “mind, body, and spirit.” This guide provides essential information on our academic program. Included are academic requirements, explanations of each course offered with required prerequisites, and important information about the process of course selection.
The Curriculum & Instruction Department The role of the Curriculum and Instruction Department at UMS-Wright is to support teaching and learning across divisions. We look forward to having the opportunity to work closely with students to navigate their middle school academic experience. As the coordinators of the course selection and scheduling process, we are happy to answer any questions you may have along the way.
Dr. Patricia Boehm Associate Head of School - Curriculum and Instruction pboehm@ums-wright.org
Ms. Donna Lamberti
Mrs. Bre Stricklin
Director of Learning and Innovation Grades 8-12 dlamberti@ums-wright.org
Director of Learning and Innovation Grades 3-7 bstricklin@ums-wright.org
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General Information for Course Selection Course Selection and Registration Course selection takes place in the spring of each school year. Leading up to the day of registration, students are strongly encouraged to discuss their course selections with parents, teachers and members of the Curriculum and Instruction Department. Students should carefully consider their personal interests, current and future time commitments. Students are provided a deadline for registration. Failure to register by the posted date may result in the student’s forfeiture of course selection rights, and a schedule may be chosen for him/her.
Honors Coursework Honors courses are taught at an accelerated pace and advanced level as compared to the College Preparatory (CP) courses. Students who choose to take an honors course at UMS-Wright should be mindful of the additional requirements involved. At the middle school level, UMS-Wright offers Honors English and Honors Math at the seventh and eighth grade levels. To enroll in Honors courses, a student must receive a recommendation. Recommendations are determined based upon the following criteria: Attendance and work ethic Grades in prerequisite coursework Contributions made to the learning process that indicate intellectual engagement and curiosity in the subject Strong ability to analyze, evaluate, problem solve and conceptualize new ideas Performance on standardized tests, as appropriate
Scheduling Conflicts UMS-Wright offers a great variety of courses and activities for its students to pursue. Because of the varied nature of student interests, sometimes scheduling conflicts will occur. Every effort will be made to place each student in the courses that he or she requests. However, sometimes this is not possible. It is very important that students clearly indicate acceptable alternatives when registering.
Schedule Changes Requests for schedule changes must be made within the first four weeks of the course and approved by the Curriculum and Instruction Department. Due to the pace of instruction, students may not begin Honors level classes after the seventh day of school.
Please note that due to our commitment to small, balanced classes, requests for specific class periods cannot be accommodated.
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Middle School Courses English Language Arts 5th Reading 5 and English 5 6th Reading 6 and English 6 7th English 7 or Honors English 7 8th English 8 or Honors English 8 Mathematics 5th 6th 7th 8th
Math 5 Math 6 Math 7 or Pre-Algebra 7 Pre-Algebra 8 or Algebra I
Science 5th 6th 7th 8th
STEM 5 STEM 6 / Earth Science STEM 7 / Life Science STEM 8 / Physical Science
Social Studies 5th 6th 7th 8th
Social Studies 5: Ancient History Social Studies 6: Medieval History Social Studies 7: Modern History Social Studies 8: American History
World Languages 5th 6th 7th 8th
Introductory French Exploratory Spanish and Exploratory French Spanish A or French A Spanish B or French B
Elective Offerings 5th 6th 7th 8th
All students will participate in a rotation consisting of: Exploratory Band, Drama, Chorus & Technology All students will choose either two semester elective courses or one year-long elective All students will choose up to four elective classes, depending on length All students will participate in Speech & Debate and choose up to three elective classes
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Seventh Grade English English 7 This course emphasizes strong written expression and literary exploration/analysis. Grammar and vocabulary are reinforced through multiple reading and composition assignments. Seventh grade students in this course receive intensive instruction on composing creative, multi-paragraph essays as well as on the process of writing a proper research paper. In addition to writing, students increase their reading comprehension and critical thinking skills through the analysis of both fiction and nonfiction texts in the forms of short stories, poems, drama, and class novels. Students also engage in their exploration of genres through independent reading that culminates in quarter projects. Honors English 7 Honors English 7 focuses on the same skills as English 7 while requiring a higher level of thinking and competency. Students in this honors course are able to work at a faster pace and have more opportunities to work independently due to their demonstrated ability in the areas of grammar, composition, and reading comprehension. The course will require students to demonstrate higher order thinking in literary analysis and class discussions, and display a seriousness of purpose in their work. Students must receive a
recommendation to enroll in this course.
Mathematics Math 7 Math 7 extends student understanding of numbers and computation to include integers and proportional reasoning. After students demonstrate a mastery of number sense, students begin introductory studies of basic algebraic concepts. Areas of focus include: data analysis and probability; algebraic foundations such as equations and inequalities; functional relationships; arithmetic and geometric sequences; geometric precision, and measurement. Pre-Algebra Pre-Algebra is a transition course from arithmetic to algebra. Students study integers and rational numbers which leads to an understanding of the real number system. Other topics include writing and solving twostep and multi-step equations and inequalities, using order of operations to evaluate mathematical and algebraic expressions, recognizing and using properties, graphing linear equations, solving proportions, and understanding the relationship between fractions, decimals, and percents. Problem-solving techniques are applied throughout the course. An emphasis is placed on algebraic vocabulary and the use of patterns in understanding more complex concepts. Students must receive a recommendation to enroll in this course.
History Social Studies 7: Modern History In this course, students explore and analyze significant events, people, and ideas of civilizations throughout the world from the end of the 16th century to the 21st century. Through investigation of the most influential developments during this time period, students consider the impact of geographic settings, cultural perspectives, economic systems, and various forms of government that have a lasting effect on our world today. The course centers around the essential question, How do we define “modern?”
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Science STEM 7: Life Science Our middle school science courses at UMS-Wright are taught using the STEM approach to teaching and learning. This approach requires teachers to facilitate learning so that students apply skills and knowledge in context as they work to solve problems that integrate science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Students in this course learn about all living things, from the simplest cells to the most complex organisms and ecosystems. Our goal is to motivate students to become independent learners with an understanding of how the field of biology is important to their everyday decisions. Hands-on learning activities are used to help process the information and gain understanding about the levels of organization in our living world. Students practice deeper thinking, collaboration with others, and the process of scientific inquiry. The course incorporates technology, teamwork, science literature, and learning critical skills that are crucial to future success. Specific areas of focus may include: Taxonomy, Natural Selection, Adaptations, Ecology, Genetics, Cellular Processes, Protein Synthesis, Plants, Animals, & Human Anatomy
World Languages Spanish A This seventh grade course expands the introduction of basic syntactic components of the target language, for example adjective gender agreement and placement, negation, forming questions, contractions, simple conjunctions, prepositions, interrogatives, etc. Structurally, learners continue the study of elementary grammatical concepts, such as the present tense, including the uses of the verbs ser and estar, the rules that govern auxiliary verbs, and more irregular verbs. Vocabulary acquisition appropriate to a beginner level is reinforced through reading, writing, speaking and listening. Students practice communicating using interpersonal, interpretive and presentational modes. The cultural focus of this course is Spain.
French A This seventh grade course expands the introduction of basic syntactic components of the target language, for example, adjective gender agreement and placement, negation, forming questions, basic contractions, simple conjunctions, prepositions, etc. Structurally, learners continue their study of elementary grammatical concepts such as plural and genders rules, the partitive, the study of the present tense, including the rules that govern auxiliary verbs, and are introduced to more irregular verbs. Vocabulary acquisition appropriate to a beginner level is reinforced through reading, writing, speaking and listening, and students begin practicing communicating using interpersonal, interpretive and presentational modes. The cultural focus of this course is France.
Elective Courses Students will have the option to choose one of the following combinations of either year long (Y) or semester (S) courses: 2 year-long courses, 1 year long course and 2 semester courses or 4 semester courses from the choices below. Band (Y) This class is a continuation of Beginner Band in which the students are afforded opportunities to improve and hone their playing and performance skills. Instruction includes the reading and understanding of music, the different styles of music, and the ability to instrumentally communicate the intent of the composers. These students perform at two concerts a year, and they have the opportunity to perform at various school functions.
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Chorus 7 (S or Y) The Chorus elective is a course designed to develop each student’s voice and technical ability. Students will develop the ability to sight-sing in harmony, begin training the ear, and learning interval notation. The choir performs on campus and in the community and will be required to dress in the standard uniform of black pants/skirt and white shirt for performances. Students may choose to participate in one or two semesters of this class. Coding and Robotics 1 (S) In this course, students explore, investigate, solve, and document a variety of tasks individually, with partners, and within small groups using Sphero robots to understand foundational computer science concepts. The focus is centered around block coding, where students develop a basic understanding of how controls and conditionals impact programming. Students learn the basics of the design process to collaboratively solve problems. Coding and Robotics 2 (S) This course is a continuation of Coding & Robotics 1. Students will use Sphero robots to explore, investigate, solve, and document a variety of tasks individually, with partners, and with small groups. We will quickly review beginning block coding topics and then advance into intermediate block coding principles which include: manipulating sensors, loops, conditionals, variables, and functions. By the end of the course, students will have a better understanding of how to translate block coding to text coding. Digital Design (S) This course is designed to strengthen digital and design skills while working to develop a love of learning and creating. Students design and produce a variety of digital and tangible products such as podcasts, videos, digital posters, website design, games, presentations, and much more while exploring various digital design platforms. Drama 7 (S or Y) Drama 7 revisits topics such as movement and space, environment, and technical theatre, but the lessons will expand on these subjects. Students learn the dramatic process by producing, designing, and acting in a class play. Seventh grade productions are based on works of classic literature, which engage the student in an exploration of the historical setting as well as the customs of the period. Beyond developing performance skills and an understanding of the production process, the experience provides an opportunity to hone leadership and team-building skills through collaboration. Physical Education (S or Y) Physical Education (PE) in the middle school provides students opportunities to learn and practice key motor skills while encouraging lifelong physical activity. During PE, students learn the rules and concepts of sports activities as well as movements that are crucial for success in all areas of exercise and athletics. Students practice these movement skills through individual drills, games, team and individual sports, and team building exercises. A variety of sports are taught, including: basketball, football, soccer, softball, swimming, track, and volleyball. Students are required to dress in the PE uniform for participation in class.
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Physical Education / Dance Combination (Y) - Extra Fee This is a combination class where students attend PE two days a week (see description above), and dance three days a week. In dance, students study different styles of dance, learn dance terms, and are challenged at their own level. Some outside performances are required, including a spring performance. Parents are responsible for purchasing one costume in addition to the course fee of $325. Service and Leadership (S) In this course, students will learn about, practice, and understand the traits necessary to become highly effective leaders and members of our community, both on and off of campus. Throughout the semester, students will identify and practice strategies for successful decision-making, conflict resolution and management as well as interpersonal communication. In addition, students are provided opportunities inside and outside of the classroom to lead service projects and volunteer. Visual Art 7 (S) Within the semester, students understand foundational knowledge in basic design and color theory concepts. Students accomplish this through master studies and projects using a variety of materials.
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Instructions for Seventh Grade Course Selection Step One
Step Two
Log in to PowerSchool Unified Classroom from your school-issued laptop classroom.powerschool.com
Select "Quick Links" from the left menu bar
Step Three
Step Four Using the Course Guide, review your options in each section
Select "Class Registration" from the Quick Link pop-out menu. This will open the course selection page in a new tab.
Core Requirements World Language Elective Offerings
Step Five Make your selections in each of the four sections: Core Requirements: You will select your required core courses on this screen (history, math, English, and science). If you are recommended for an honors level course, the course will be available for you to select. World Language You will select the language you wish to take. You will study the language chosen until at least 10th grade. Elective Offerings You will choose elective offerings that are equal to 2 units. This can be a combination of 2 year long courses, 1 year long and 2 semester courses, or four semester courses. Alternate Elective Offerings You will choose two alternate elective offerings. These will only be utilized if your selected electives are unable to be scheduled for you.
Step Six Submit your requests Scroll to the bottom of the page and press submit to finalize your requests. If you are unable to submit, please check to be sure you have registered for a total of seven units.
Step Seven Have your parents sign the last page of your course guide and return to Mrs. Erwin in the Middle School Office no later than April 8.
Helpful Hints A red exclamation point means one course must be selected from the subject group.
A green checkmark means you have made all of the required selections for that section.
Questions? Dr. Patricia Boehm
Mrs. Bre Stricklin
Associate Head of School Curriculum and Instruction pboehm@ums-wright.org
Director of Learning and Innovation Grades 3-7 bstricklin@ums-wright.org
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UMS-Wright PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Dear Parents, In this packet you will find our course offerings available to seventh graders, which are outlined here: HISTORY: Social Studies 7: Modern History SCIENCE: STEM 7: Life Science ENGLISH: English 7 or Honors English 7 MATHEMATICS: Math 7 or Pre-Algebra 7 WORLD LANGUAGE: French A or Spanish A
ELECTIVES (to equal 2 credits): Band 7, Chorus 7, Coding & Robotics 1, Coding & Robotics 2, Drama and Production 7, Physical Education, Physical Education/Dance, Service & Leadership, Digital Design and Visual Art 7
As noted above, there are two honors courses in seventh grade: Pre-Algebra 7 and Honors English 7. Our goal is to have each child placed in the most appropriate academic courses for him/her to experience success. Therefore we have a developed a detailed process that includes a review of completed coursework, past academic performance, teacher recommendations and standardized test results when appropriate. We realize that all students grow at different rates, so we have created entry points at the Upper School level so students may enter the Honors track later in their academic experience. On page 9 of this packet you will find instructions on how to view your child's personalized course options and complete the online course selection process. The online course selection process should be completed no later than Friday, April 8. We encourage you to sit down with your child and review their options for the 2022-23 school year. Please indicate you have reviewed your child’s selections by signing below and returning this form to the Middle School office by the registration deadline. Your signature indicates you are aware if he/she has registered for courses that involve additional fees. We are here to help answer any questions you may have along the way. Sincerely, Patricia Boehm Assoc. Head of School - Curriculum and Instruction pboehm@ums-wright.org Bre Stricklin Director of Learning and Innovation, Grades 3-7 bstricklin@ums-wright.org
Student Name: _________________________________________ I have reviewed my child’s course requests for the 2022-23 school year and am aware of any additional fees that may be assessed for the courses requested. Parent Name: ___________________________________________ Parent Signature:_________________________________________
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