Technology I

Technology I is designed to introduce topics including computer hardware and software, file management, email, the Internet, security and computer ethics. It presents basic use of computer applications such as word processing, spreadsheets and slideshows. The course highlights fundamental skills needed for students to succeed in the real world and gives the students a basic knowledge of information technology. The business savvy skills acquired can help lead to a great college or a fulfilling career. By gaining a better working knowledge of fundamental personal computer applications, you can improve the quality of your life. Your newfound range of basic computer skills forms a solid basis on which to build more computer literacy. Students will be able to maintain and generate professional computer documents, spreadsheets, and slideshows.

Students are also required to present projects throughout the school year as public speaking is a key component to the Technology curriculum. Students will also provide and receive constructive feedback as students present their projects to the class using their Technology vocabulary.

Technology II introduces students to graphic design. Because of the students’ prior knowledge gained in their Technology I course the students will have the confidence to explore the graphic design programs.

The class consists of lectures and hands-on exercises. This helps the students develop basic design skills. Students will produce creative projects following directional handouts and exercises. Student knowledge will be assessed by classwork, tests, and projects/presentations.

In this course students will develop a portfolio of graphics including projects completed in class. The design projects will include (but are not limited to): meaning of color, logos, collages, invitations, flyer/poster, post card, magazine covers, movie poster, package design, t-shirts, sports trading cards, and murals.

There will be a few weeks set aside further into the school year where students will research a Graphic Design technique and tutorial. Once they have mastered the tutorial they will then teach the rest of the class how to complete the tutorial by designing a step-by-step tutorial guide.

There will also be opportunities for students to compete against each other to have their designs used for school. Students will professionally communicate with faculty members/clients to design printed pieces for activities and events for the school. In the past, Tech 2 students have created advertisements, invitations, flyers, and t-shirts for the school plays, Sports Teams, Student Council, Gallery Night, Color Wars, etc. This year Tech 2 students will be collaborating with the Media Arts students to design posts for the school’s Instagram page to advertise various school events and news.

In this course the students have the freedom to learn through exploration. Students are also required to provide and receive constructive feedback as students present their projects to the class using their graphic design vocabulary. Students traditionally enjoy this class because they are able to display their individuality and creativity while designing graphics that could be used around school.