Grade 7 – Science and Technology

Course Overview

Grade 7 Science and Technology deepens students’ understanding of scientific principles while encouraging them to think critically about the relationship between human activity and the natural world. As learners transition toward more advanced scientific study, they engage with increasingly complex concepts through investigation, experimentation, and evidence based reasoning.

Students explore environmental systems, the properties of matter, structural design, and thermal energy while examining how scientific knowledge informs responsible decision making. Through hands on inquiry and collaborative problem solving, learners develop the skills needed to analyze real world challenges and propose thoughtful solutions.

As scientific literacy grows, students become more confident investigators who can ask meaningful questions, interpret data, and communicate their findings with precision.

Important Information

• Elementary courses do not require prerequisites
• Ontario elementary programs do not issue transcript credits
• Facilitated and independent learning pathways are available to support diverse learning needs

The course is designed to provide approximately 50 to 75 instructional hours, allowing students to build strong conceptual understanding while applying scientific practices in authentic contexts.

What Students Will Develop

Throughout the course, students participate in inquiry driven experiences that strengthen analytical thinking and scientific reasoning.

Students will:

• Investigate interactions within ecosystems and factors that influence environmental balance
• Analyze the impact of human activity on natural systems
• Examine the characteristics and applications of pure substances and mixtures
• Apply particle theory to explain physical properties
• Design and evaluate structures based on form, function, and stability
• Explore heat as a form of energy and understand methods of heat transfer
• Assess technologies that reduce environmental impact
• Develop coding skills that support scientific investigation
• Strengthen research, observation, and data interpretation skills
• Communicate scientific ideas using appropriate terminology

These competencies promote intellectual curiosity while preparing students for more advanced scientific learning.

Course Structure

Learning is organized into thoughtfully designed units that encourage exploration while strengthening conceptual understanding.

STEM Skills and Connections

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics are integrated throughout the course. Students engage in research, experimentation, and engineering design processes while making practical connections between scientific knowledge and real world issues. Learners also examine the contributions of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities to scientific and technological innovation.

Interactions in the Environment

Students investigate ecosystems by examining the relationships between biotic and abiotic components. They analyze factors that influence environmental stability and evaluate how human activities and technological developments shape ecological outcomes.

Pure Substances and Mixtures

Learners explore the structure and behavior of matter using particle theory. Students differentiate between substances and mixtures while evaluating their applications and considering the environmental implications of their use and disposal.

Form, Function, and Design of Structures

Students design and construct structures while investigating how forces influence stability and performance. They analyze how social, economic, and environmental factors inform engineering decisions and shape the built environment.

Heat in the Environment

Students examine heat as a form of energy and investigate how it is transferred through natural and human designed systems. They assess the benefits and limitations of technologies intended to reduce heat loss and mitigate environmental impact.

Coding

Students develop computational thinking by planning, writing, and executing code. They explore how emerging technologies influence everyday life while recognizing the growing importance of digital literacy within scientific fields.

Learning Resources

As a fully online course, Grade 7 Science and Technology does not rely on a traditional textbook. Students utilize digital platforms alongside practical materials that support experimentation and design.

Recommended resources include:

• A device capable of capturing written work
• Audio recording tools when required
• Access to a printer
• A binder, folder, or notebook for offline activities
• Basic construction materials such as scissors, glue, cardboard, and rulers
• Household items for scientific investigations
• Centimetre grid paper

These resources help create an engaging learning environment where students actively explore scientific concepts.

Teaching and Learning Approach

Our approach combines structured instruction with inquiry based learning so that students develop both conceptual understanding and investigative confidence.

Key features of the learning experience include:

• Inquiry driven investigations that promote critical thinking
• Technology enriched instruction paired with hands on experimentation
• Opportunities for collaboration, discussion, and reflection
• Real world applications that enhance relevance
• Engineering design challenges that encourage innovation
• Consistent teacher guidance that supports academic progress

Interactive lessons, multimedia tools, and blended learning experiences engage diverse learners while reinforcing scientific processes.

The course is supported by a learning coach who assists with technical aspects of the program and encourages active participation in scientific exploration.

Preparing Students for Continued Academic Growth

As scientific understanding expands, students develop the confidence to question assumptions, analyze evidence, and evaluate the impact of technological advancement on society and the environment. These capabilities prepare learners for the rigor of intermediate science while fostering adaptability and responsible global citizenship.

At Trinity Ontario Elementary School, every learning experience reflects the vision of Trinity Ontario Global Academy by combining academic excellence with character development and global awareness. Students complete Grade 7 Science and Technology equipped with the knowledge, curiosity, and analytical skills needed for continued success in an increasingly scientific and technological world.