Class overview

This syllabus gives an overall summary of the class, it is written for both families and students.

Hey there, ready to rock in Tech Class again? If you were part of the Bulldog crew last year, you might remember this cool class. But guess what? If you missed out, no sweat – there's no secret handshake to join! This semester we're diving into the awesome world of technology plus design. And here's the scoop: while I've got some plans, you're the real bosses of what we learn. No need to be a tech wizard, just bring along your can-do spirit, your open-for-anything attitude, and a sprinkle of teamwork magic to listen and collaborate.Check out what we'll be doing together. The Design unit is actually several units that I'll explain in class.

Remember, no experience? No biggie! So let's gear up for a tech-tastic time and create some mind-blowing stuff together! 🌟👾🚀

Digital Literacy

How we safely and responsibly interact with technology

Understanding how AI systems work. Asking questions and thinking critically about what comes our of an AI system.

design & modeling

You will use the design process to develop several design projects. Some projects you will create as a group, some in partners, and others individually. Some projects will be completed on a computer, others not.

⭐Expectations: Be curious, respect yourself and others, give your best effort in everything we do, participate in class discussions and activities, and have fun!

⭐Participation can look different for everyone! There are many ways to be part of the learning!

⭐Materials Needed: A positive attitude, a charged Chromebook, and writing utensils.

Screen Time in Technology

Reading these abbreviated unit descriptions might give you the impression that students spend the entire class period on a device. This is far from the truth! While their Chromebooks are an integral part of creating and learning, students spend time communicating and collaborating with their peers--and that doesn't involve electronics. Hands-on problem solving, presenting ideas, and asking questions are paramount in this class. 🗣️👂🏼🎤👐🏼👀

Room 107 is a Safe Space where you are

Welcome
Valued
Heard
Accepted

Your student will bring home a handout of classroom agreements. Please discuss and sign for participation credit.

Teamwork builds flexible brains

We learn best when we:

1) Create an inclusive environment

2) Use positive language

3) Work together, solve problems, and ask questions

4) Follow community agreements as stated in our Student Handbook, linked below:

Technology Handbook/Chromebooks / Student/Parent Handbook

How's my student doing?

Families: I use Google Classroom to communicate feedback on daily work/practice and digital assessments. This is where you can get a sense of your student's participation. Skyward/Qmlativ is a static reporting system updated weekly and provides a grade mark at the time you are viewing your student's progress.

Artificial Intelligence Use in This Course

As part of our commitment to ethical and responsible use of technology, our class follows the Cashmere School District Technology & AI User Agreement. Students are expected to adhere to district expectations when using AI tools.

Before using AI assistance, make sure to check with me about the AI use level for your assignment. If it's not clearly marked as AI Permitted (🔸), please ask me first, as some assignments may be AI Restricted (⛔). ⚠️ If AI use is not clearly indicated for an assignment, assume it is restricted and ask before using any AI tools.

CMS Grade reporting

Your overall grade, posted on Skyward/Qmlativ:

85% of your grade is based on Standards-based assessments
15% of your grade is based on daily work and practice
You will also receive a Behavior grade. These are referred to as Employability Skills. While your student may not be job hunting today, it's never too early to learn and practice these life skills. The grade mark appears as: E-expectional, S-satisfactory, or U- unsatisfactory. Behavior grades are not factored into your overall grade.

Standard Reporting Guide, posted in Google Classroom as 4-1:

A-4- DIS Distinguished: work exceeds grade level standard

B-3-PRO Proficient: work meets grade level standard

C-2-APP Approaching: work needs assistance to meet grade level standard

D-1-BEG Beginning: work is below grade level standard

NE- No evidence: work was not submitted or not attempted

Late or Missing Work Policy: All assignments have due dates which can be extended when necessary. If you are absent, make arrangements to complete missed assignments. I encourage you to speak with me about your work and how you can best show me what you know! This is known as advocating for yourself. 💪🏼

About me

I've had the privilege of being an educator for numerous years, with this current chapter marking my 6th year here at CMS. The warmth of this community has been truly heartening, and I find immense joy in the task of facilitating the different ways in which students grasp new concepts. ¡También puedo comunicarme en Español!

If you have any questions, please contact me either on Home Room Connect (ClassTag), by email at cbenita@cashmere.wednet.edu, or call at 509-782-2001.

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