7th Grade Science
The following learning targets represent the major concepts studied and assessed in this course.
Semester 1
Unit 1: Engineering Practices
- Support an argument for a design to solve a specific problem using criteria and constraints.
- Analyze the potential impacts of a design in order to prioritize criteria and constraints.
- Analyze test data to support an argument for an optimal design.
- Synthesize data to develop a model to optimize a design through repeated testing.
Unit 2: Earth–Sun–Moon System
- Use a model to explain patterns and make predictions involving the Earth, Sun, and Moon based upon their relative positions.
- Explain the cyclical pattern of seasons.
Unit 3: Solar System and Space
- Use a model to explain the role of gravity in the motion of the solar system.
- Analyze and interpret data to determine scale properties of objects within the solar system.
Unit 4: Earth Systems
- Analyze information from rock formations and fossil evidence to explain Earth’s history.
- Construct a scientific explanation from rock strata to organize Earth’s history.
- Model and use evidence to explain the role of energy in the cycling of Earth’s materials.
- Identify evidence to explain how geological processes of varying time and spatial scale create geological features.
- Analyze and interpret data of the past tectonic plate motions.
Semester 2
Weather and Climate
- Model the water cycle
- Analyze interactions of air masses
- Explain atmospheric and ocean circulation patterns
Human Impact
- Explain distribution of natural resources
- Analyze strategies to minimize natural hazards
- Evaluate factors affecting global temperature