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
Generative Aritifical Intelligence: You will demystify generative AI models by exploring their internal structures. You will gain insights into how these models represent language, the impact of training data on model performance, and the potential for bias.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.