science
The seventh graders begin the year focusing on chemistry using a Regents level high school textbook. The basic building blocks of chemistry are discussed in depth including discussions of the atom, isotopes, the periodic table, and the physical and chemical properties of elements. Each concept is reinforced with experiments and hands-on activities.
Skills that were developed in previous years, and particularly in sixth grade, are enhanced in the seventh grade. General science skills are continually reviewed and developed.
After understanding the properties of atoms and the elements on the periodic table, the students begin to explore high school regents level Earth Science for the second half of the school year.
The students begin their study of Earth Science by understanding the various branches of science involved with the Earth and how the Earth was formed 4.56 billion years ago. The students study minerals and rocks that make up the Earth’s surface. Numerous hands-on experiments and excursions around the campus to collect specimens complement our studies. 
Renewable and non-renewable resources and their affect on global warming on our changing environment are investigated.
The students continue exploring our planet and factors which shaped it over millions of years. They study how the Earth’s surface has evolved and has been shaped and reshaped by interior and exterior forces.
The students conclude their study of Earth Science in the 7th grade with a look at the geologic history of New York State. The local geological/glacial history is incorporated in the discussion. Along with the new concepts of Earth Science that are covered, the students are exposed to the higher level mathematical concepts that are commonly used in Earth Science.
EARTH SCIENCE TOPICS COVERED
Earth’s Materials
- Introduction to Earth Science
- Minerals
- Rocks
- Earth’s Resources
Sculpting Earth’s Surface
- Weathering, Soil, and Mass Movement
- Running Water and Groundwater
- Glaciers, Deserts, and Wind
Forces Within
- Earthquakes and Earth’s Interior
- Plate Tectonics
- Volcanoes and other Igneous Activity
- Mountain Building
- Earth System Profile – NEW YORK STATE
CHEMISTRY TOPICS COVERED
CHEMISTRY – CHEMICAL BUILDING BLOCKS
Introduction to Matter
- Describing Matter
- Measuring Matter
- Changes in Matter
- Energy and Matter
Solids, Liquids, and Gases
- States of Matter
- Changes of States of Matter
- Gas Behavior
- Graphing Gas Behavior
Elements and the Periodic Table
- Introduction to Atoms
- Organizing the Elements
- Metals
- Nonmetals and Metalloids
- Elements from Stardust
Exploring Materials
- Polymers and Composites
- Metals and Alloys
- Ceramics and Glass
- Radioactive Elements