Teach Technology- Enhance Education

Computer Technology at St. John Regional Catholic School

The technology curriculum at St. John School provides a solid foundation for all students in grades K-5. Students have a weekly computer class with a varied curriculum that prepares them for further use in junior high and high school. Following is a summary of topics covered in each grade.

Kindergarten- Grade 2 - Students in these grades come to the computer lab once a week for 30 minutes. They are introduced to the hardware of the computer and learn proper use of the mouse. The Internet is used to integrate technology with what they are learning in the classroom. Several educational web sites are used to especially practice language and math skills. The drawing program KidPix is also introduced and used for various activities. Creating, opening, closing and saving files are introduced also.

Grade 3- The focus for these students is to learn the proper techniques of keyboarding. They come to the Lab twice a week for 30 minutes. The software application used is Type to Learn. Students are also expected to practice these skills at home 4-5 times per week for 10-15 minutes. This program has been very successful with our students; they are well prepared for being efficient with the laptops they will use on a regular basis in Junior High School.

Grade 4- Word Processing Skills are continued in the 4th Grade. Students are also introduced to desktop publishing with the use of a Print Shop program. One of the most important aspects of this year's curriculum is learning all about the Internet and how to use it educationally and efficiently. The history of computers is also covered and safety topics are stressed. Students also learn to create their own folders and master saving, opening and closing files and folders. Fourth graders come to the computer lab once a week for one hour.

Grade 5- The two most important topics at this level are the introduction spreadsheets and electronic presentations. Our school uses the Microsoft Office Suite. Students complete several activities in both applications to give them a solid introduction to these applications. Searching and Researching on the Internet are also emphasized. Students learn how to read critically on the Internet and how to tell if web sites are accurate information. Grade 5 students also come to the lab one day a week for one hour.