Integrated Science 7
Course Overview:
Integrated Science 7 is a two-semester online middle school science course offered through Holston Academy that builds on foundational scientific skills while expanding student understanding of life science, physical science, Earth science, and environmental systems. Students strengthen scientific thinking by applying observation, data analysis, and evidence-based reasoning to real-world phenomena. Through interactive lessons, virtual labs, and inquiry-based activities, students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that prepare them for advanced middle school and high school science coursework.
Semester 1:
In Semester 1, students explore the characteristics of living things and how organisms interact with each other and their environments. The course introduces key life science concepts, followed by an in-depth study of matter and chemistry, including mixtures, density, states of matter, atomic structure, the periodic table, and chemical bonding. Students investigate the properties of water, carbon compounds, and polymers before examining the classification of living organisms, including plants, animals, fungi, bacteria, protists, and viruses. The semester concludes with a focused study of green plants, exploring how plants grow, function, and reproduce. Throughout the semester, students apply Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs) to develop understanding of Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCIs) through Crosscutting Concepts (CCs).
Semester 2:
In Semester 2, students investigate Earth’s materials and processes, including the rock cycle, fossils, geologic time, and plate tectonics. They examine how earthquakes, volcanoes, and erosion shape Earth’s surface before shifting focus to biological diversity, studying invertebrates, vertebrates, body systems, and reproduction across species. The course then explores Earth’s atmosphere and climate systems, including biogeochemical cycles, weather patterns, and climate change. Students conclude the semester by studying Earth’s water systems, including the water cycle, ocean structure, and the importance of oceans to life on Earth. Students continue to engage in SEPs-based investigations and capstone-style assignments that connect science learning to real-world applications.