Syllabus Computer Apps

📘 Hughes Academy – 6th Grade Digital Literacy
Instructor: Dr. Starr
School Year: 2025–2026
Email: Lesliejaninstarr@greenville.k12.sc.us
Room: 107
Course Website/Platform: See Hughes Academy Website

📌 Course Description

Welcome to 6th Grade Digital Literacy! This course is designed to introduce students to the world of computer science and digital citizenship. Through engaging lessons and hands-on projects, students will explore how technology works, how to use it responsibly, and how it affects our lives and communities.

We aim to create a positive, inclusive classroom environment where all students feel confident exploring the digital world.

🎯 Course Goals & Learning Areas

By the end of this course, students will:

1.      Digital Literacy Skills

• Use digital tools safely, ethically, and effectively

• Understand digital footprints and online reputations

• Practice responsible online communication

• Keyboarding skills

2. Computing Systems

• Understand how hardware and software work together

• Explore the role of input/output devices, memory, and storage

• Learn how computers can solve everyday problems with personal critical thinking

3. Networks & the Internet

• Understand how the internet works

• Recognize and apply safe online practices

• Explore how information travels through networks

4. Data Analysis

• Collect and organize data using digital tools

• Interpret charts and graphs

• Use data to draw conclusions and make decisions

5. Algorithms & Programming

• Break down problems into logical steps

6. Impact of Computing

• Explore how computing affects our world, culture, and behavior

• Discuss current events and trends in technology

• Reflect on ethical issues in technology

🧩 Units of Study (Tentative Timeline)

Quarter

Units Covered

Q1: Introduction to Digital Literacy, Internet Safety & Citizenship, Intro to Computing Systems

Q2: Networks & the Internet, Digital Tools for Communication and Collaboration

       Data Analysis, Intro to Programming Concepts

       Algorithms & Programming Projects, Technology in Society, Final Projects

📚 Required Materials

• Chromebook or school-issued device (daily)

• Composition Notebook

• Pen

• Folder or digital portfolio (as assigned)

• Positive attitude and willingness to explore!

📈 Grading Scale:

            A         90 – 100

            B         80 – 89

            C         70 – 79

            D     60 -  69

            F      59 & below

  GFA: Grade Floor Applied
          Your child showed mastery on less than 50% of the information
                being assessed, resulting in less than 50 out of 100 possible points

NHI: Not Handed In
        Your child has not turned in the assignment

 ✅ Classroom Expectations

• Be respectful of others, ideas, and equipment

• Come prepared and ready to participate

• Practice digital citizenship at all times

• Work collaboratively and independently

• Take initiative and ask questions

📝 Assessments

Students will complete a variety of assessments, including:

• Hands-on coding projects

• Data interpretation tasks

• Short quizzes

• Reflections on current tech topics

• A final project that demonstrates learned skills

🧠 Skills for Life

By the end of this course, students will not only gain foundational tech knowledge but also develop:

• Problem-solving and critical thinking

• Collaboration and creativity

• Ethical reasoning and responsible tech habits

🔗 Communication

Parents and students are encouraged to check the course platform regularly for updates. Dr. Starr is available for questions via email and during office hours.