Homeschooling 7th Grade
Homeschooling 7th grade is a great way to help your students discover their individual interests. It is also a time to strengthen their study habits and build on skills that they have already learned.
This year, let them visit a job fair or meet with local professionals to learn more about careers that interest them. They should also develop their ability to work independently.
Curriculum
Typically 12 or 13 years old, students in seventh grade begin exploring more academic independence and discover new interests. They should have a solid foundation of reading comprehension and test-taking skills in place as well as a good understanding of basic math and world history.
Homeschooling allows parents to customize their children’s education. They can use a traditional textbook-based curriculum, or they can choose an online option that gives students one-on-one instruction. A variety of course offerings are available, including language arts, math, world history, science, and foreign language.
Sonlight offers a comprehensive seventh-grade homeschool curriculum that includes books, DVDs, and CD+digital materials. Their history programs introduce young learners to the “go-getters” that created America, while a full-year, American History program provides a deeper understanding of the nation’s origins. Their Apologia science curriculum teaches students about the scientific method; atoms, molecules and molecules; energy flow, photosynthesis, and ecosystems; earth’s systems; plate tectonics; water patterns; technology; and more.
Socialization
By seventh grade, kids are right in the middle of the transition from childish goofiness to maturity. They can exercise self-control and focus for longer periods of time and may have their own specific interests they want to spend extra time exploring.
Socialization is a big part of children’s growth, so make sure your homeschooled student interacts with other kids regularly. If possible, find a local homeschool group or organize playdates with other homeschoolers. Joining a church youth group or summer camp is another great way to meet new people and encourage your child’s social skills.
Help your student discover their unique interests by pairing their academic studies with other activities like cooking, archery, pet rescue or theatre. And don’t forget to give them opportunities for physical activity and a creative outlet (like digital art or playing an instrument). If you’re looking for more ways to help your seventh grader succeed in homeschool, chat with a Homeschool Advisor!
Extracurricular Activities
Homeschoolers have the flexibility to pursue extracurricular activities that are a fit for their passions. Whether it’s scoring the winning goal in a game, helping others in need or working on a STEM project, finding an activity that excites your 7th grader will help keep them engaged with their academic lessons.
If your student is interested in visual art, ask around to find out if there are local art classes for homeschoolers. Alternatively, you can also consider offering art classes in your home.
For students who are interested in the performing arts, there may be dance or theater groups that welcome homeschooled kids. Music is another great option that can be done at home or at a local studio.
Finally, you can find community service opportunities at soup kitchens, churches and other places that could benefit from extra hands. In addition, you can also encourage your student to visit historical sites related to their studies.
Homework
Children in 7th grade are starting to explore more independent learning and are often expected to tackle more complex assignments. Homeschooling allows parents to work closely with their kids and provide the guidance they need, while still allowing for flexibility and creativity in lessons.
When choosing a curriculum for your child, consider his or her dominant learning style. Some children learn best through auditory means while others are hands-on learners and thrive with a more interactive learning environment.
When assigning homework, make sure you have a realistic idea of how long it should take a child to complete the assignment. For example, reading a chapter of Dante’s Inferno might take 10 minutes for you, but could easily be 45 minutes for a student who struggles with language arts. Remember that seventh graders are smack in the middle of puberty, so emotional upheaval is normal — regardless of their schooling situation. Try to be patient and focus on teaching your child.