## 10 Must-Read 7th Grade Informational Text Passages for Students
As students move up to 7th grade, they are expected to engage with more complex texts and extract information from them. Reading informational texts is an essential skill that students need to master to succeed academically and in their future careers. In this article, we will explore ten must-read 7th grade informational text passages that can help students develop critical thinking skills and expand their knowledge base.
1. “The Gettysburg Address” by Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln’s famous speech at Gettysburg is an excellent example of persuasive writing, and it’s also a crucial historical document. This speech is short but powerful and contains essential ideas about democracy, equality, and justice. Students can learn a lot about the power of words and how language can be used to inspire people.
2. “I Have a Dream” by Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech is another example of powerful persuasive writing that can help students reflect on the importance of justice, equality, and civil rights. This speech is an excellent illustration of how powerful imagery and repetition can be used to influence people.
3. “The Distracted Teenage Brain” by Dr. Frances Jensen
In this fascinating article, Dr. Frances Jensen explores the science behind the teenage brain and how it is affected by technology, sleep, and stress. This article is an essential read for students who want to understand how their brains work and how they can take care of them.
4. “The Bill of Rights” by the National Archives
The Bill of Rights is a document that outlines the fundamental rights that every American citizen is entitled to. It’s an essential document that students must know about to understand the founding principles of the United States. This document also highlights how the Constitution protects individual liberties.
5. “The Science of Gratitude” by David Steindl-Rast
In this fascinating talk, David Steindl-Rast talks about the benefits of gratitude and how it can improve our health, happiness, and relationships. This talk is an excellent illustration of how science can be applied to real-life issues and how simple practices can have a significant impact on our lives.
6. “The Life Cycle of a Star” by NASA
NASA’s article on the life cycle of stars is an amazing read for students who are interested in astronomy. Students can learn about how stars are formed, how they change over time, and what happens when they die. This article is a fantastic example of how complex scientific concepts can be explained in an understandable way.
7. “The Water Crisis” by Charity Water
In this article, Charity Water explores the growing global water crisis and how it affects millions of people worldwide. Students can learn about how the lack of clean water affects health, education, and economic development, and what can be done to help. This article is an excellent example of how students can engage with real-world issues and inspire change.
8. “The Power of Nonverbal Communication” by Amy Cuddy
In this thought-provoking talk, Amy Cuddy talks about the power of nonverbal communication and how body language affects our emotions and behavior. Students can learn about how they can use body language to boost their confidence and communicate effectively. This talk is an excellent illustration of how social science can be applied to everyday life.
9. “The History of Vaccines” by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The history of vaccines is a fascinating read that can help students understand the importance of immunization and disease prevention. This article explores how vaccines have evolved over time and how they have helped eradicate deadly diseases. This article is an excellent example of how science and history can be combined to tell a compelling story.
10. “The Story of Ruby Bridges” by Scholastic
The story of Ruby Bridges is a powerful example of how one person can make a difference in the face of adversity. This article tells the story of Ruby Bridges, the first African American child to attend an all-white school in the South. Students can learn about the Civil Rights Movement and how it shaped American history. This article is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the importance of social justice and racial equality.
In conclusion, these ten informational texts are a must-read for 7th-grade students who want to develop critical thinking skills and expand their knowledge base. These texts cover a wide range of topics, including history, science, social justice, and communication, and they all offer valuable insights that students can apply to their lives. By reading these texts, students can become better-informed citizens and lifelong learners.
