The Holidays are approaching and …
Happy Fall!
Happy Halloween!
Everyone has settled
into their computer classes. All the
star reading and star math testing is behind us until spring. The computer
rules, seat assignments, passwords, safety concerns, expected homework and
logging on procedures have been reviewed.
Students were assigned their computer seats, user ID and secret password. They have spent several weeks logging on using the control, alt, and delete keys. They know how to access the start menu and log-off button. The students were introduced to the Microsoft Paint Program. They will be working in this program until January learning many of the Paint components. They are encouraged to go home and practice what they learned in their computer class. I will be sending home a parent information sheet on how to access this program on your home computer.
Second, Third and Fifth Grade Students
Internet safety classes have started and the lessons will continue through November. The above grades will be introduced to the i-Safe Program. The students will develop an understanding of the concept of community, personal safety, and the need to make responsible choices. Students will be able to express their ideas and reinforce concepts through group discussions.
The second and third grade will take an on-line field trip with the FBI to re-enforce the concepts covered on safety. Other topics covered will be the Community they live in, Cyber Community, Viruses, Bullying, Cyber bullying, Gaming and e-mail.
Fifth grade will be discussing the topics of inappropriate websites, On-line Behavior, Gaming, Identity Safety, Cyber Bullying, Intellectual Property, Social Networking, Cell Phone Safety, texting and cell photos.
All the students have completed their pre-assessment test on-line and will take the post-test after they have completed their Internet safety class. These tests challenge the students’ knowledge of Internet safety. They also help us in planning our lessons in this fast paced changing world of technology so we can educate them to make responsible choices when on-line.
Many packets completed in class will be sent home for the students to share with you. Please discuss the Importance of Internet Safety and what your family rules are in your home. Please think about the placement of your computer. They should never be put in a bedroom where you cannot see what is going on.
i-Safe Bulletin Board outside Computer Lab
Please take a minute and read what is going on in Cyberspace. There are so many things changing on a daily basis. Please talk to your children about Facebook. There are 500 million registered users. There are approximately 7.5 million kids under 13 on Facebook. Facebook isn't supposed to be used by children under 13.
Common Sense Media
A great website to become familiar with is commonsensemedia.org
“Their mission is dedicated to improving the lives of kids and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive in a world of media and technology.” Please take a minute to look at their site.
Have a great and SAFE month!
Why Do We Need A Technology Lab?
1. A technology teacher provides a structured curriculum with complete and specific instructions in computer skills that are taught in a lab environment. This enables the students to become more confident in their technology skills and it improves technology use in the classroom. It validates the importance of the subject being taught.
2. In a lab, students have the opportunity for hands on experience to learn about new applications and review past lessons. This is a great advantage to students so they can become more confident in their technology skills.
3. Technology labs free classroom teachers so they can focus on their goals and not loose valuable instruction time teaching computer skills.
4. Structure, consistency, and repetition build skills each year whether it is a new application, documents, presentations, or understanding and increasing their time and accuracy in mastering keyboarding.
5. The importance of the technology lab offers student support, skills, and the knowledge they need to use these skills beyond the classroom.
