Curriculum

Lower School Curriculum

Philosophy Statement:

The primary goal in the Lower School computer classes is to help the students become technologically literate. This is achieved by exposing students to a wide variety of hands-on computer experiences which includes programming, simulations, information gathering, and working with applications and subject area software. By providing a broad range of computer experiences, we help students understand how computers can facilitate learning in all subject areas.

We encourage students to respect one another's learning styles and different levels of computer expertise. Cooperative learning is encouraged so that the computer is viewed as a tool, not a companion.

An effective computer program provides students with the opportunity to be self-directed, to pose and pursue their own questions, to explore, construct and create. We encourage students to feel confident enough to explore and build on what they know.

Goals:

  • To develop technological fluency through the effective use of computers
  • To familiarize students with various computer applications
  • To encourage students to be problem solvers
  • To foster independence
  • To help students develop self-confidence as they develop their technological skills
  • To augment what students are learning in the homeroom by promoting the integration of computer use with classroom work
  • To promote cooperative learning through group activities
  • To provide guidelines for the ethical use of computer

Skill Development for Grade 2:

  • Basic word processing skills
  • Development of critical thinking skills through simulations, problem solving, and drawing conclusions
  • Introduction to software media representing different subject areas
  • Introduction to the server
  • Introduction to desktop management
  • Mouse manipulation
  • Drawing, painting, and desktop publishing
  • Introduction of hardware and software terminology
  • Menus
  • Introduction to working with two documents at one time
  • Introduction to geography software using maps and legends

Skill Development for Grade 3:

  • Basic word processing skills
  • More advanced drawing and painting techniques
  • Development of critical thinking skills through simulations, problem solving, and drawing conclusions
  • Introduction to using computer reference materials through the library browse screen
  • Introduction to using the Internet
  • Continued use of software media representing different subject areas
  • Introduction to the applications menu
  • Independent use of the server
  • Basic use of geography software

Skill Development for Grade 4:

  • Intermediate word processing skills including:
  • Formatting documents, text editing tools, content editing, inserting pictures, using graphic tools for drawing and painting
  • More advanced critical thinking skills through simulations, problem solving, and drawing conclusions
  • Intermediate use of computer reference materials through the library browse and detailed search screens
  • Intermediate use of the Internet search engines and navigation tools
  • Ethical use of the computer and Internet
  • Continued use of the server
  • Manipulation of hardware including use of laser and color printers, selecting printer to suit own needs
  • Introduction to keyboard skills and basic positioning
  • Introduction to use of multiple applications at one time
  • Intermediate use of geography software