At Wappingers Junior High, we understand that every student has a unique learning style and processes information in different ways. Exploration Choice Time in our Computer Applications class gives students the opportunity to explore a variety of technology-related activities that match their individual interests and learning preferences. This dedicated time allows students to build their digital skills in a hands-on, engaging way while reinforcing the concepts they've learned in class.
What is Exploration Choice Time?
Exploration Time is a flexible, student-driven period where students can select from a range of interactive and educational activities. These activities are designed to suit different learning styles, whether students thrive with hands-on tasks, prefer visual learning, or enjoy collaborative work. This time encourages students to deepen their understanding of digital literacy while fostering creativity and problem-solving skills.
What Activities Are Available During Exploration Time?
Students can choose from a variety of activities that reinforce skills taught in Computer Applications. Some of the options include:
Typing Practice with Skill Struck: Students practice and improve their typing speed and accuracy using Skill Struck, a platform designed to help students become more proficient typists. Students will take a Pre-Assessment at the start of the quarter and a Post-Assessment at the end, with grades based on their Words Per Minute (WPM) and accuracy, using a keyboard cover to ensure proper typing technique.
Target Lessons: Each unit contains Target Lessons designed to test skills like Home Row and other essential typing techniques. Students will have two attempts to meet the target of 20 WPM and 80% accuracy, and these lessons will be graded based on their performance with a keyboard cover.
Basic Coding with Kodable and Skill Struck: Students will get hands-on coding experience using beginner-friendly tools like Kodable and Skill Struck. These resources allow students to learn foundational coding concepts in an interactive and engaging way.
Google Interland: Students can play Google Interland, a fun and educational game that teaches kids about online safety and responsible internet use. It’s a great way for students to explore how to be good digital citizens while having fun.
Keyboard Shortcut Challenges: To increase typing efficiency, students can practice keyboard shortcuts that help them navigate programs and the web more quickly. These challenges boost their digital fluency and speed in an interactive format.
Password Checkers and Google AI: Students will engage with password checkers to learn about creating strong, secure passwords. They’ll also explore the basics of Google AI, gaining an understanding of artificial intelligence and its real-world applications.
AI Quest: Students can participate in AI Quest, an interactive game that introduces them to artificial intelligence concepts. Through the game, students will problem-solve, think critically, and explore how AI impacts various industries.
How Does Exploration Time Work?
During Exploration Time, students have the freedom to select activities based on their learning needs, interests, and skill level. Whether they’re working independently on coding exercises, collaborating on projects, or practicing typing, students are given the flexibility to choose how they want to engage with the material. Teachers are available to provide support and guidance, but students are encouraged to explore and take ownership of their learning.
By offering a range of activities that cater to different learning styles, Exploration Time allows students to strengthen their digital literacy in a way that feels personalized and engaging. It’s an opportunity to apply classroom lessons in a hands-on environment, and to explore new technologies and digital skills they may not have encountered before.
Why is Exploration Time Important?
Exploration Time provides a number of benefits for students:
Supports Various Learning Styles: Whether students are visual, kinesthetic, or auditory learners, Exploration Time offers different activities that meet their needs.
Reinforces Classroom Learning: By engaging with interactive tools and activities, students have the chance to practice and solidify the skills they are learning in class.
Encourages Self-Paced Learning: Students can work at their own pace, allowing them to explore areas they find most interesting and challenging.
Builds Confidence: As students see progress in their typing speed, coding skills, and digital fluency, they gain confidence in their ability to use technology effectively.
Prepares for the Future: The skills students develop in Exploration Time (such as typing, coding, digital safety, and critical thinking) are essential for their success in high school and beyond.
At Wappingers Junior High, we provide a variety of online tools and platforms to support our students' learning in Computer Applications. Below are the key resources we use in class, organized by category. Each platform offers unique opportunities for students to develop important skills in coding, digital citizenship, internet safety, and more!
1. Coding and Programming
Skill Struck
Skill Struck is an interactive platform that teaches students how to code through fun, engaging lessons. From basic concepts to more advanced coding techniques, students can develop their programming skills at their own pace.
Code.org
Code.org provides a variety of courses and tutorials to teach coding fundamentals, from introductory lessons to more complex projects. It’s a great resource for students to start their coding journey with accessible tools and resources.
Kodable
Kodable offers interactive coding games for students of all skill levels. It's perfect for younger learners and beginners to get started with the basics of programming, while providing fun challenges and progression.
2. Digital Citizenship and Online Safety
Google's Be Internet Awesome
This interactive game teaches students essential online safety skills, such as recognizing phishing attempts, respecting others online, and protecting personal information. It’s a fun and engaging way to promote good digital citizenship.
Digital Compass
Digital Compass helps students navigate the online world safely. Through scenarios and role-playing, students learn about topics like online privacy, digital communication, and ethical online behavior.
Kaspersky Password Checker
This tool allows students to check the strength of their passwords and learn about the importance of creating secure, unique passwords. It's an essential resource for building strong cybersecurity habits.
3. Creativity and Exploration
Google Arts & Culture - Say What You See
This interactive game challenges students to explore art, history, and culture through AI and image recognition. It's an exciting way to encourage creativity and foster a love for arts and culture while using technology.
Google AI Quest
AI Quest introduces students to the world of artificial intelligence through fun, interactive challenges. It helps students understand how AI works and how it is used in different industries, making it a great resource for students interested in technology and innovation.
In Class: These resources are integrated into our Exploration Time to give students a hands-on, engaging experience with coding, online safety, digital citizenship, and more.
At Home: Encourage your child to explore these resources outside of class to strengthen their skills and practice what they’ve learned in class. Many of these tools are accessible at any time, providing students with the flexibility to learn at their own pace.
For Parents: Each platform offers valuable learning experiences for your child. Explore the links together to better understand the concepts being taught and see firsthand how your child is progressing.