Here are the essential questions that guide the seventh grade science curriculum: What is the nature of science? What processes do scientists use to ask and answer questions? What skills do scientists use to ask and answer questions? In what ways do scientists gather and analyze data? What is life? What is required to sustain life? What factors can be used to classify organisms into groups? Why does the form follow the function of cells, organelles, and cellular molecules? What is the role of specialized cells? What is the role of technology in our ability to view cells? How does the transfer of materials sustain and occur in cells? What energy drives cellular life? And where does this energy come from and go to? Why is cell division important? How are traits passed down from parents to offspring? How are traits expressed in organisms? How do individual differences occur within species? What are the ethical implications or ethical dilemmas associated with advances in genetic technologies? What are the social justice issues related to biotechnologies? Science and Sexuality: Ethics and Science Collaboration In what ways is puberty experienced similarly and/or differently between males and females? How does the male/female body and mentality change during puberty? How does the structure of the male/female reproductive system relate to its function? What are STIs and how are they transmitted? How can pregnancy and the transmission of STIs be prevented? • How and where do I find valid sexual health information and resources? • What do I need to know about my growth and development? What does a healthy relationship look like? What influences my attitudes, behaviors, and decisions related to my sexual health?