As students advance through school, they develop foundational knowledge and skills that prepare them for further academic success and life challenges. Each grade level introduces new concepts and builds on previous learning.
As homeschoolers, we have the luxury of allowing our students to learn at their own pace. The below breakdown is designed to help our students stay academically competitive with their peers in public and private schools.
Here's a detailed breakdown of the key academic skills students should master at each stage:
7th Grade
Reading: Analyze complex texts and start to evaluate how an author builds arguments or develops characters across multiple chapters.
Writing: Write research papers and argumentative essays using sources and citations (e.g., writing a paper on the impact of social media on youth).
Math: Pre-algebra concepts like working with variables, solving linear equations, and understanding proportions (e.g., solving word problems involving ratios).
Science: Explore biological systems, ecosystems, chemistry (atoms and molecules), and physical forces like gravity.
Social Studies: Study world history, focusing on major historical events like the Renaissance and the Industrial Revolution.
8th Grade
Reading: Analyze novels, plays, and nonfiction texts, focusing on critical thinking and identifying literary techniques like foreshadowing and irony.
Writing: Write essays with clear arguments and supporting evidence. For example, writing a persuasive essay about a current event.
Math: Study algebra, working with linear equations, the Pythagorean theorem, and graphing functions.
Science: Learn about basic physics principles (e.g., Newton’s laws), chemistry (periodic table), and environmental science.
Social Studies: Study U.S. history from colonization to Reconstruction and explore civic responsibilities in a democracy.
Conclusion
From 7th and 8th grade, students progressively develop more sophisticated reading, writing, math, science, and social studies skills. Each year builds on the previous one, preparing students for high school. Mastering these skills ensures that students are equipped to succeed academically.
Sources:
National Education Association (NEA). (2021). Grade-by-Grade Learning Guide.
U.S. Department of Education. (2020). What Your Child Should Learn in Each Grade.
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