6th Grade - Technology Applications
The technology applications curriculum has six strands based on the ISTE Standards•S and performance indicators developed by the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE): creativity and innovation; communication and collaboration; research and information fluency; critical thinking, problem solving, and decision making; digital citizenship; and technology operations and concepts.
Through the study of technology applications, students make informed decisions by understanding current and emerging technologies, including technology systems, appropriate digital tools, and personal learning networks. As competent researchers and responsible digital citizens, students use creative and computational thinking to solve problems while developing career and college readiness skills.
A variety of technologies will be used. Students will analyze and evaluate the results. Topics will include hardware, operating systems, networking, business applications, picture and sound editing, motion graphics, animation, web design, 3D modeling, game design, electronics (Arduino), and programming (Blockly, C++, Swift).
Guidelines for the course are Chapter 126.14 Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills Subchapter B, Middle School.
8th Grade - Principles of Arts, Audio/Video Technology, and Communications
Careers in the Arts, Audio/Video Technology, and Communications career cluster require, in addition to a creative aptitude, a strong background in computer and technology applications, a strong academic foundation, and a proficiency in oral and written communication. Within this context, students will be expected to develop an understanding of the various and multifaceted career opportunities in this cluster and the knowledge, skills, and educational requirements for those opportunities.
This high school elective credit course is taught as project based learning using Adobe Creative Cloud and Adobe K-12 Curriculum designed to help students develop the workforce skills and industry-standard software proficiency they need to succeed in higher education and on the job.
Guidelines for the course are Chapter 130.82 Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Career and Technical Education Subchapter C. Arts, Audio/Video Technology, and Communications (One Elective Credit). I supplement with Chapter 126.16 Technology Applications Subchapter B, Middle School.
8th Grade - Dollars and Sense
Dollars and Sense focuses on consumer practices and responsibilities, money-management processes, decision-making skills, impact of technology, and preparation for human services careers.
Guidelines for the course are Chapter 130.273 Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Career and Technical Education Subchapter J. Dollars and Sense (One-Half Elective Credit). I supplement with Chapter 126.16 Technology Applications Subchapter B, Middle School.