Class overview
This syllabus gives an overall summary of the class, it is written for both families and students.
Welcome to the exciting world of Technology Class! Over the upcoming semester, we'll dive into a treasure trove of technological concepts. This course is all about tapping into your curiosity and potential – you are the captains of this class! Don't worry if you're new to technology; all you need is a can-do attitude, an open mind ready for adventure, and the enthusiasm to learn and work together with your awesome classmates. Get ready to work beyond your comfort zone! 🤯
Digital Literacy: Research shows we need to repeat concepts before middle schoolers begin to contemplate how what they are learning applies to them. We continue to explore how we safely and responsibly use technology
Aritifical Intelligence: It's here and it can be as controversial as using calculators in the class (back in the day). We will use different AI resources to understand AI's abilities and limits.
Circuits: Students are introduced to circuits and coding to power LEDs.
Drones: A super fun way to learn responsibility! Students will work with a smart phone and a drone to create a video reflecting on their last year at CMS.
⭐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.
Friendly Reminders:
No hats or hoods
Cell phones/personal electronics stored during class time in provided classroom space
No gum or candy
Your student will bring home a handout of classroom agreements. Please discuss and sign for participation credit.
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:
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 is a static reporting system updated weekly and provides an average grade at the time you are viewing your student's progress.
Your overall grade, posted on Skyward:
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. In Skyward in 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 done in class
Late or Missing Work Policy: You are responsible for turning work in on time. If you are absent, you will be given time to make up the work, but it is YOUR responsibility to make arrangements for this. I encourage you to speak to me about your work and how you can best show me what you know!
About me
I've had the privilege of being an educator for numerous years, with this current chapter marking my 4th 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 ClassTag, by email at cbenita@cashmere.wednet.edu, or call at 509-782-2001.