Computer Science and Digital Literacy

In Middle School Computer Science & Digital Literacy, students will develop essential skills in using digital tools such as Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, Sites, and Google Drive for effective file creation, management, and collaboration. They will explore the basics of computing and programming through Code.org and Scratch, learning how to control systems to perform specific functions. Students will also create and edit digital images using Google Drawing, GIMP, and Inkscape to express and share ideas creatively. Throughout the course, they will practice critical thinking, problem-solving, and project management, while demonstrating responsibility and ownership of their work. Collaboration and respectful online interaction are emphasized, as students learn to communicate effectively in digital environments. They will also reflect on their digital lives, practicing safe and responsible internet use, protecting personal information, and understanding the ethical and legal issues surrounding digital tools and online communication. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to use technology thoughtfully, safely, and creatively to support their learning and personal growth.

Unit 1: Digital Literacy

My Media Use: A Personal Challenge (Media Balance)

Reflect on your own media habits and how they affect your daily life.
Create strategies to achieve healthier media balance.

Big, Big Data (Privacy & Safety)

Learn how companies collect and track your data.
Understand how this data is used and why it matters.

The Power of Digital Footprints (Digital Footprint & Identity)

Explore how online actions create a lasting digital footprint.
Recognize how digital footprints can shape opportunities in the future.

My Social Media Life (Relationships & Communication)

Discuss how social media impacts friendships and relationships.
Reflect on ways to use social media in healthy and positive ways.

Upstanders and Allies: Taking Action Against Cyberbullying (Cyberbullying & Online Harms)

Learn strategies to respond to and stop cyberbullying.
Explore how to be an upstander and support others online.

The Four Factors of Fair Use (Information & Media Literacy)

Understand your rights as a creator under fair use.
Practice applying the four factors of fair use to real examples.

Unit 2: Google Slides

Part 1: Basics

Learn how to create and format slides using layouts, themes, text, animations, transitions, and speaker notes.
Develop skills to design clear, professional presentations that communicate ideas effectively.

Part 2: Visual Enhancements

Add and format images, videos, lines, and shapes to make presentations more engaging.
Understand how graphics and media help capture audience attention and emphasize main points.

Part 3: Data & Collaboration

Create tables, diagrams, and charts to organize and present information visually.
Share presentations by collaborating online, printing slides, and publishing them to the web.

Unit 3: Onshape-Intro to CAD

Unit 1: Jumping Into Onshape

Explore exciting sample models while learning the Onshape user interface.
Practice navigating, changing views, and moving between part studios and assemblies.

Unit 2: Designing a Skateboard

Learn modeling best practices by creating the parts of a skateboard.
Assemble the parts into a complete skateboard model.

Unit 3: Onshape Power Tools

Discover advanced features that streamline and enhance modeling.
Reinforce best practices while adding new functionality to designs.

Unit 4: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Collaborate in Onshape by working in teams to build a pull copter.
Learn new modeling techniques and practice design review.

Unit 5: Putting CAD to Work

Apply CAD skills independently by designing a cell phone project.
Follow the engineering design process with a design ready for 3D printing or laser cutting.