📘 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.