Seventh Grade

Seventh Grade at Wheeling Country Day School empowers eleven- and twelve-year-olds to take greater ownership of their learning and leadership. Building on their foundation, students engage in Deep Dives – challenging, project-based experiences that stretch their thinking and connect directly to real-world issues. With access to distinctive electives like Cooking, Broadcasting/Podcasting, and DIY Lab–Engineering, seventh graders continue to explore their passions while developing critical problem-solving skills. At WCDS, this year is about stepping forward with curiosity, collaboration, and confidence—hallmarks of becoming thoughtful, capable leaders.

About Seventh Grade

We unlock the power in our Seventh Graders to learn and enjoy learning at our Middle School Branch Campus at Wheeling Park.

In Seventh Grade, we continue to provide core foundations in math and language arts, while introducing them to project-based learning that challenges the students to apply all subjects (math, science, history, global studies and more) as they work together with each and on their own.

Teachers work with the students to find problems and work through a proven framework to solve the problem by using a variety of skills, such as (math, science, engineering, reading, and more) to find their own way to solving real-life problems.

Creative & Skill-Based Courses

In addition to the traditional subject areas, students participate in fine arts, physical education, foreign language, and technology classes. An emphasis on the fine arts has been a part of the school since its inception. Biweekly classes in art and music are highlights in the children’s experiences. Daily physical education classes enhance physical development, while the morning intramural program fosters team relationships across grade levels. Children learn to use both the library and the computer as valuable resources for information.

English and Book Exploration

Under the guidance of their English teacher, the seventh-grade class explores the captivating world of books like “Howl’s Moving Castle.” They actively participate in discussions, analyze the characters, and conduct vocabulary investigations related to the novel. Students are hone their writing and analytical skills by creating summaries and predictions about the plot. Furthermore, they are engaged in vocabulary studies, examining new words from the text with the help of provided resources in Google classroom. This emphasis on literature and language arts enriches their reading comprehension and critical thinking abilities.

Pre-Algebra and Fundamentals of Pre-Algebra

In math classes, the seventh-grade students focus on essential topics to strengthen their mathematical foundation. They learn about fractions, including finding least common multiples, greatest common factors, and simplifying fractions. Furthermore, they are explore addition and subtraction of numbers with decimals and practicing expressions with variables. Interactive activities like math games and quizzes are regular features of the lessons, ensuring effective concept retention and problem-solving skills development.

An Emphasis on Character Development

Character development instruction highlighting respect, responsibility, trustworthiness, fairness, caring, and citizenship complements the academic offerings. Each teacher weaves this special program into the class’s regular curriculum.

Science and Microscope Exploration

In science class, the seventh-grade students are immersed in an exciting scientific journey focused on living organisms and microscopic exploration. They learn about microscope parts and functions and identify the characteristics used to classify living organisms. The students also conduct experiments, observing microscopic samples like a letter “e” from a newspaper clipping. Through these experiments, they gain insights into how samples appear inverted and reversed under the microscope. Additionally, the students explore extremophiles and investigate whether specific ones could potentially survive on Mars. Peer-led presentations and hands-on activities contribute to their in-depth understanding of biology and scientific investigation.

Technology & Culture

While being part of the Wheeling Country Day School community, children prepare for an increasingly global, technological society with language and culture classes as well as technology instruction. Students explore the rich cultural heritage represented by the school’s families. Special school-wide and classroom activities throughout the year expand this understanding of the relationship between self and community. At the same time, students receive computer instruction preparing them for the world’s technology and their participation in it.

Sports, Clubs, & After School Activities

Wheeling Country Day School extends its curriculum by offering students a variety of clubs that they may join. Middle School students have the ability to participate in select sports including swim team, cross country, golf, tennis, martial arts, and more.

Social Activities and Student Engagement

Throughout the school year, the seventh-grade class actively participates in various social activities, fostering a sense of community and connection. They enjoy engaging events such as kickball games, parent Zoom meetings, and parent coffee gatherings. These extracurricular activities provide opportunities for students to connect with each other outside the classroom and develop essential social and teamwork skills. The dynamic social environment complements their academic growth, making their learning experience more holistic and enriching.

Seventh Grade Teachers & Staff

Carrie Ochap

Middle School Coordinator

Seventh Grade Seventh Grade at Wheeling Country Day School empowers eleven- and twelve-year-olds to take greater ownership of their learning and leadership. Building on their foundation, students engage in Deep Dives – challenging, project-based experiences that stretch their thinking and connect directly to real-world issues. …