6th Grade Technology Curriculum

This curriculum covers a range of essential technology skills and concepts for 6th-grade students.

Digital Citizenship

Digital citizenship is a key component of the technology curriculum, focusing on responsible online behavior, internet safety, and media balance. Students learn about their rights and responsibilities as digital citizens, how to interact respectfully online, and how to protect their privacy and security. Topics covered may include:

• Internet Safety: Students learn about online safety best practices, including identifying and avoiding scams, protecting personal information, and understanding the risks of interacting with strangers online. Resources like Common Sense Education and Google's "Be Internet Awesome" program provide valuable lessons and activities.
• Digital Etiquette: Students learn about appropriate online communication, including email etiquette, netiquette in online discussions, and responsible social media use.
• Media Literacy: Students develop critical thinking skills to evaluate online information, identify misinformation, and understand the impact of media on their lives.
• Cyberbullying Prevention: Students learn about cyberbullying, its consequences, and how to report and respond to incidents of online harassment.
• Digital Footprint and Identity: Students understand the concept of a digital footprint and how their online actions can have long-term consequences. They learn how to manage their online presence and protect their digital identity.

Keyboarding Skills

Keyboarding proficiency is emphasized, focusing on touch typing techniques, accuracy, speed, and ergonomics. Students engage in typing exercises and activities to improve their typing skills and prepare them for digital literacy tasks.

Coding and Programming

Introduction to coding and programming concepts may be included, using age-appropriate platforms and tools. Students may learn basic coding principles, computational thinking, and problem-solving skills through interactive activities and projects.

Design and Multimedia

Students may explore design principles and multimedia creation, using software and tools to create digital art, presentations, and other multimedia projects. This may include learning about graphic design, video editing, and animation.

Microsoft Office Suite

Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications, such as Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, may be part of the curriculum. Students learn basic skills in word processing, presentation creation, and spreadsheet management.

Other Topics

Other topics that may be covered include:

• Internet Research: Students learn how to effectively use search engines, evaluate online sources, and conduct research for academic projects.
• Digital Note-Taking: Students learn how to use digital tools for note-taking, organization, and study.
• Cloud Computing: Students learn about cloud storage, file sharing, and collaboration tools.
• Digital Portfolios: Students may create digital portfolios to showcase their work and track their learning progress.

This comprehensive curriculum aims to equip 6th-grade students with the necessary technology skills and knowledge to thrive in a digital world.