Emphasis is also placed on the proper use of equipment and the scientific method. Life Science - Seventh Grade, Two Semesters Life science is devoted to studying in a meaningful sequence, the features, functions and relationships among organisms and their environment. Student knowledge builds from cell structure, through the anatomy of single and multi-cellular organisms, plants and invertebrates, vertebrates, introductory ecology, and the study of the human body. The program involves students in hands-on, laboratory investigations that follow scientific methods, and activities specifically designed for the chapter being studied. The course builds upon topics learned in the sixth and seventh grade Earth and Life Sciences curricula, then branches into related topics of ecology, ecosystems, energy, resources, waste, and population growth.
Students consider actual case studies involving resource depletion, pollution, and extinction.
They weigh costs and benefits of abatement, conservation, and restoration. Students are taught to think globally and act locally as opportunities are presented for community service . All students are required to do an independent research project on a topic of their choice. Students formulate a hypothesis, set up an experimental plan, research background information on their investigation, perform hands-on experiments, collect data, and draw conclusions. The projects are presented and judged at the Chaminade Middle School Science Fair, where attendance is mandatory.