Is 7th-grade Math Hard? [Facts You Must Know]

If you’re here, trying to evaluate the challenges of 7th-grade math, perhaps the previous year’s math wasn’t that smooth for you. If that’s the story, you’re not alone. Many of your peers must have gone through the same and wonder- “Is 7th-grade math hard?”

We spoke to our 7th-grade math tutors at Wiingy to understand the challenges of 7th-grade math. And here’s what they said:

7th-grade math introduces you to tricky algebraic concepts and it can be harder than previous grades. In grade 7, you will learn how to figure out the area of shapes and solve problems with different types of numbers, expressions, and equations. 

Algebraic thinking, Pre-algebra, and certain topics from geometry are considered the most challenging topics in 7th-grade math.

But how difficult can it get for you? Why do students find 7th-grade math challenging? What math subjects are the hardest? And, how to overcome the challenges? This guide is packed with details on these questions. We will cover:

• Factors that can make 7th-grade math hard.
• Reasons why students find 7th-grade tougher.
• Hardest 7th-grade math subjects.
• And, how to excel in 7th-grade math. 

Looking to Learn 7th Grade Math? Book a Free Trial Lesson and match with top 7th Grade Math Tutors for Concepts, Homework help, and Assignment Help!

Factors that determine the difficulty of 7th-grade math

The 7th-grade math curriculum focuses on both basic and advanced math topics. The key factors that determine the difficulty of 7th-grade math are as follows:

Previous knowledge and skills

Learning is a step-by-step process. You must master the alphabet to be able to spell a word.

Similarly, in math, you must know the basic formulas and concepts before learning the advanced concepts.

If your basics are strong, you can understand the advanced concepts easily. If your basics are cloudy, you will find it harder to understand the advanced concepts. So if you have a good grasp on 6th-grade math concepts, 7th-grade math can be less challenging to learn.

Math courses you are taking

The math courses you choose to study play a vital role. Students can choose from basic to advanced math courses in 7th grade. 

Students who choose accelerated math courses go for Pre-algebra in 7th grade. Taking pre-algebra can make 7th-grade math hard because it involves complex algebraic formulas and concepts.

📖Read What is 7th-grade math? to find the detailed 9th-grade math curriculum and lesson planning.

Your practicing skills

Nothing can replace the power of regular math practice. When you practice math daily, you become more familiar with the formulas, concepts, and problem-solving methods. 

When practicing math regularly, you deal with the same type of problems many times. You get a hang of deciphering the problems, identifying which formulas would work, and how to derive the correct answer. 

Your attention span

According to Cross River Therapy (July 24, 2023), a 12-year-old might typically maintain focus for about 25 to 35 minutes. 

Your attention span impacts your ability to grasp knowledge in a given time.

The shorter the attention span, the more chances of getting distracted. If you get distracted in your math classes, you can skip important explanations from the teacher. 

Similarly, you may not be able to stay focused on your self-practice and homework. Distractions break the learning flow and you end up grasping very little knowledge in a specific time.

On the other hand, having a good attention span means you can stay focused for longer, allowing you to grasp more concepts in a given time.

Reasons why 7th-grade math can be difficult for students

According to NAEP in 2022, the average math score has been lower as compared to 2019 scores.

There could be many reasons why students fail to perform well in their math tests. The most common reasons for students to struggle with 7th-grade math are as follows:

Increased complexity

7th grade introduces new math concepts that require stronger problem-solving skills. You start solving algebraic variables, equations, integers, and geometric problems. These concepts are more difficult to understand than your previous grades’ math concepts. 

Math anxiety 

“One big factor for math anxiety is a child’s self-math concepts”- says Molly Jameson, Ph.D., an Educational Psychologist at the University of Northern Colorado. Approximately 20%-25% of students have math anxiety. 

Math anxiety is the feeling of nervousness and stress every time you face math problems. It generally results from a poor foundation in math.

These experiences and feelings signal math anxiety:

• If you have been frequently judged and bullied for underperforming in math.
• If you fear failing in math.
• If math makes you anxious.

Math anxiety prevents you from learning and applying math skills confidently. Here’s a quick video by Dr. Katie Nall to eliminate math anxiety.

However, you must talk to your parents and teachers for the best support and guidance on this. 

Multi-step word problems

Unlike the previous grades, 7th-grade math problems involve multiple steps and formulas. The word problems are in a layered structure. You have to solve the word problems in a clear, step-wise manner. 

First, you to have understand what is the question about. Then you have to identify the formulas and equations that will be used to solve the problem. Finally, you have to solve the question in a presentable format.

Deciphering the problems and analyzing various strategies to solve them requires strong critical thinking ability. This can make 7th-grade math harder for students.

Improper time management

As you progress to 7th grade, your curriculum expands. You learn many new subjects and concepts. The number of assignments and projects might add to the academic load. 

Besides, you also need time for extracurriculars, and hanging out with friends. All these activities have to be prioritized and planned wisely, otherwise it can become tough to save time for sufficient math practice. 

Lack of professional support

In a classroom of 15 to 20 students, teachers might fail to prioritize every student. You may not get personalized attention and feedback in your math class. 

It can become difficult to clear doubts and prepare for tests. You may also struggle to complete your math homework on your own. This can affect your learning, making 7th-grade math even harder. 

💡Tip: You can get yourself professional and personalized help from 7th-grade math tutors. They can help you understand concepts, prepare for tests, and complete homework on time.

📖Recommended Reading: 

• Best Tutoring Services for Math  
• Top Benefits of A Private High School Math Tutor  

What are the hardest topics in 7th-grade math?

The hardest math topics of 7th grade can vary depending on what you choose to study. In general, Algebraic Thinking, Pre-algebra, and certain Geometry topics are considered the hardest math topics in 7th grade.

Algebraic Thinking

7th-grade math starts with foundational algebraic concepts. These concepts are slightly more tricky than what you must have practiced in 6th grade.

The topics you learn under Algebraic thinking include:

• Integers
• Rational Numbers
• Negative Numbers
• Equations 
• Expressions’
• Inequalities

Pre Algebra

(for students who take accelerated math courses in 7th grade)

Pre-algebra is typically taught in 8th grade. However, students who take accelerated math courses can study pre-algebra in 7th grade. It forms the base of high school algebra and is hard to grasp at once.

Pre-algebra includes topics such as

• Multi-step equations.
• Functions and linear models.
• Proportional relationships.
• Percentages.
• Exponents intro and order of Operations.
• Variables and expressions.
• Ratios and Rates.
• Equations and inequalities introduction.
• Percent and rational number word problem.
• System of equations.
• Factors and Multiples.
• One-step and two-step equations and inequalities.
• Roots, exponents, and scientific notations.
• Patterns

Geometry

7th-grade math geometry technically does not fall under the “hard math subjects” category. But certain topics from Geometry like Volume and Pythagorean theorem can be tricky for 7th-graders. 

Geometry includes topics such as

• Angles between intersecting lines.
• Pythagorean theorem proofs.
• Triangular angles.
• Volume
• Pythagorean theorem and distance between points.
• Pythagorean Theorem.

How to excel in difficult grade 7 math concepts?

Having a good grasp of 7th-grade math is important to prepare a strong base for high school math. However, 7th-grade math comes with its own challenges. 

So how do you overcome the challenges and perform well in your grade 7 math class? Our experienced math tutors suggest the following tips for excelling in 7th-grade math:

Have an effective study plan

Having an effective study plan is a vital step towards achieving your goals. Decide which lesson you’ll work on, estimate the time needed, and schedule your study time. Pre-planning is like setting realistic goals, helping you approach your target with clarity and motivation.

Study with friends

Learning math can be more enjoyable and practical when done with friends. Some of your friends might know a concept better than you. You can learn from them.

Some others might know less than you, teach them. Teaching others helps you revise the lessons.

Take notes

Taking notes ensures you have reliable resources to practice the math lessons. Note down definitions, formulas, and expressions. Take note of any important point that you want to remember. You can visit the notes again when you sit for self-practice. 

Ask questions in class

Remember we discussed how important it is to get the basics right? Don’t stress over sounding dumb. Raise your hand and ask questions if you fail to understand what your teacher is explaining. It will help you build strong basics.

Others are likely confused about the same issue you are if you are. It’s just that, you have the courage to ask it!

Seek help

Don’t hesitate to clarify doubts with teachers, friends, or family. Get help from 7th-grade Math Resources like worksheets, videos, and books.

Sometimes, you might need extra guidance and support from a professional tutor. You can ask your parents to contact 7th-grade math tutors for you.

📖For more useful tips, read 7th-grade Math Tips (That Actually Work)!

Final thoughts on “Is 7th-grade math hard?”

7th-grade math can be tough as it introduces you to complex Algebraic-thinking concepts. The difficulty of 7th-grade math depends on factors like – your basic math skills, attention span, and practice skills. Certain topics from Pre-algebra, Algebraic Thinking, and Geometry can be the most challenging for 7th-grade math students.

You may also struggle with 7th-grade math because of increased complexity in concepts and word problems, and math anxiety. Besides, poor time management and a lack of professional support can make it harder for you to stay on track.

To succeed in 7th-grade math, you must start with a positive mindset. Follow it up with consistent practice and take regular notes. Don’t hesitate to seek help from your teachers, friends, and family whenever in need.

Looking to Learn 7th Grade Math? Book a Free Trial Lesson and match with top 7th Grade Math Tutors for Concepts, Homework help, and Assignment Help!

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