Students in Grades One through Eight receive instruction in Technology once per week, approximately thirty times a year. The following is the summary of the curriculum covered in this subject area.
Grades One to Three
The students begin work on keyboarding skills in Grade One and continue to work on these skills using web-based “Dance Mat Typing”. Grades Two and Three reiterate their skills also using web-based “Dance Mat Typing”. Through the use of various games and instructional activities, as well as Microsoft Word document creations, the students will improve their keyboarding skills and knowledge of the keyboard. In addition, students learn how to access the internet and internet safety will be stressed throughout the year. Grades Two and Three will also be introduced to MicroSoft Office Publisher and Power Point.
Grades Four and Five
The students in Grades Four and Five will sharpen their skills in Microsoft Word by exploring changes in font, style, color as well as the use of clip art and inserting photos. They also will have the opportunity to further explore Microsoft programs Power Point, Publisher and Excel. They will learn to create charts while adding color and labels to spreadsheets. Attention to detail in published works will be stressed. They also will be instructed in internet safety and choosing websites that contain accurate information. Grade 5 students will be introduced to PhotoStory and other web-based graphics. In collaboration with the grade level teachers, students will be graded on various projects intended to allow application of the skills that have been taught in previous grades. Students will receive grades in the technological aspects of these projects. The students will be given written tests throughout the year, specifically technology vocabulary.
Grades Six, Seven and Eight
The students in Grades Six and Seven will be introduced to iPads as a 1:1 device, while Grade Eight will further enhance their usage with iPads as 1:1 device. Various APPS on the iPad will be explored along with Google Applications. Students are encouraged to use the iPad for all educational aspects of the day. Since a great deal of time will be spent on the internet doing research, issues of Internet safety, reliability and validity of websites, and copyright are explored and stressed in various projects. In collaboration with the grade level teachers, students will be graded on various projects intended to allow application of the skills that have been taught in previous grades. Students will receive grades in the technological aspects of these projects. The students will be given written tests throughout the year, specifically technology vocabulary.
Additional Information
For a description of the Curriculum Guidelines of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, visit the website of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia Office of Catholic Education .