Vine Middle Magnet Foundations of Technology

Introduction to Technology

Course Syllabus 2007-08

Room B12                                       Instructor: Margaret Seagraves          

School Phone: 594-4461                                       Plan Time: 8:00 -9:30

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course is designed to develop the general technological literacy and capabilities of middle school students so that they will be better prepared for success in a highly technical society.

Foundations of Technology will enable students to develop technological literacy skills. Students will become more informed about the nature, powers, and limitations of technology. This is a modular classroom setting with a hands on program of study that teaches about the development and applications of technology and the effects technology has on individuals, society and the environment.

The majority of our focus will be on Informational Technology and students should have a working knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite after completing a three-year course.

6th grade

What is Technology?

Introduction to Technology (5)

IT in Our Lives (3)

Basic Computer Functions (1)

Telecommunications and Ethics (7)

Troubleshooting and Maintenance (1)

Computer Graphics (7)

IT History (3)

Rockets*

Total Lessons: 27

7th Grade

What is Technology?

Introduction to Technology (5)

Basic Computer Functions (1)

Information Management and Evaluation (7)

Computer Research (7)

Spreadsheets (7)

West Point Bridge Design*

Toothpick bridges*

Total Lessons 27

8th Grade

What is Technology?

Introduction to Technology (5)

Basic Computer Functions (1)

Troubleshooting and Maintenance (1)

IT careers (3)

Word Processing (7)

Databases (7)

Desktop Publishing (7)

Multimedia Presentations (7)

Problem Solving*

Tetrahedron Kites*

Total Lessons 38

* Optional Hands on Projects depending on student’s progress and time on task.

Materials:

A majority of the assignments are done on the computer. The students will be expected to bring a pencil and agenda. A classroom notebook will be provided for students to keep track of their work.

Text:  Technology Interactions and Introduction to Technology

Video: All videos are course connected and for instructional purposes. Only E rating video through educational sources will be shown.

Grading

Classroom assignments, homework, group projects, modules assignments and posttests will be graded.

Knox County grading scale will be used.

Make up work

Students are responsible for missed assignments regardless of the reason for the absence.

All work is done is class and being absent will lower your grade. Missed assignments can be made up within a week but the student will have to make arrangements to come early or stay late to work on the computers for assignments not made up in class.

Finishing Early

Occasionally you will finish an assignment early and you are to read quietly in your assigned area or work on homework quietly in the table area. You should do this without disturbing others or the teacher will give you additional assignments.

Lab Rules

1. 1. Eat before you come to class.
2. 2. Only pencils are to be used to complete assignments in the computer area
3. 3.You must stay in your assigned area at all times unless you have permission to leave.
4. 4.Obey all other school rules as stated in your agenda

Consequences:

1. Warning
2. Action plan including parent contact
3. 15 minutes after school next day
4. Office Referral

Rewards

1. Good Grades (Effort = Success)
2. Making Projects

Students are responsible to keep their area clean and replace all items each time you leave your work area.  Notify teacher if something is broke.