Media Center

Every week grades K-5 come to Media for one hour. Half of the class will go to computer class first and the other to library and then switch after 30 minutes. 6th grade has 45 minute of computer class with opportunities to check out books near the end of class. Media Center is where students learn how to effectively use both the library system and come to learn how to use, create, and program a computer. There is so much to learn! Take a look below at what students will learn throughout their time at St. Charles. 

Type to Learn

The curriculum students use to form good typing habits is Type to Learn 4. This is a program that can be accessed both at school and at home with the account information provided during computer class. Each lesson focuses on one key for each hand such as the "u" and "r" keys. Once students have been introduced to the keys and use games to reinforce the skills, students will have the opportunity to complete a final challenge and move onto the next lesson. The program collects data on both the accuracy and WPM (Words Per Minute) which allows students to set goals for themselves. 

Google Drive

Google Drive allows students to access Google applications such as Google Docs, Google Slides, Google Forms, and Google Sheets. These applications allow student to collaborate on documents and projects together simultaneously online.

Block Coding

Student will practice computational thinking skills while learning how to program applications using a block coding language. This will require collaboration and logic. We will use code.org to begin our coding journey. This online curriculum has a course designed specifically for each grade K-5 as well as accelerated courses for older students. 

Digital Citizenship

Just like children are taught by their parents to be good citizens in the world such as using good manners, crossing the street safely, etc. Parents as well as teachers must teach children how to become good digital citizens. According to Common Sense Media, digital citizenship is the ability "to make safe, smart, and ethical decisions online." Throughout the semester students will watch videos, participate in discussions, and create awareness for peers on how to be good digital citizens.