Technology, Media Literacy, and GATE (Gifted and Talented Education)

​Note: You can view student-made videos here: Pacific School Vimeo Channel

Luigi Oppido instructs grades 3-6 in the use of computer technology on a weekly basis in our STEAM media lab. The technology program integrates computer science standards with core content and practices for 21st century problem-solving skills.  Students explore creative project-based learning through coding & programming, graphic design creation, film making, digital music file creation, and curriculum that supports proper digital citizenship. 

3rd Grade Computer Classes
In the third grade we concentrate on basic skills of typing and navigation, beginning graphic design, early coding skills, and proper computer and internet use. Some of the projects include Typing Club, Kodable, Canva, and Common Sense Digital Citizenship.

4th Grade Computer Classes
In the fourth grade we concentrate on more advanced skills of typing & digital file management. The students will be introduced to web based design software for creativity. We will also focus on building coding skills. Some of the projects include Typing Club, code.org, Khan Academy, creating persuasive posters & understanding digital citizenship.

5th Grade Computers & Media Literacy Classes
In the fifth grade, technology is combined with a media awareness component. Students will evaluate the use of media in their lives and be encouraged to find a healthy balance. Media literacy also includes a segment on propaganda & deciphering  truth in advertising, The students will be introduced to basic Media Arts Production tools in order to create their own simple media projects that promote social good. Some of the projects we work on include myhero.com hero-based storytelling activities and using software (i.e. Canva photo editing, & Garage Band music and Sound Effects creation. The media literacy component includes digital citizenship and being safe online.

6th Grade Computers & Media Literacy Classes
In the sixth grade, technology is combined with a media awareness component. Students will evaluate the use of media in their lives and be encouraged to find a healthy balance. Media literacy also includes a more advanced segment on propaganda & discerning truth in online messages. In addition to discerning propaganda and influence-based media, the students will be introduced to Media Arts Production tools in order to create their own media projects that promote social good. Some of the projects we work on include myhero.com hero-based storytelling activities and using software (i.e. Canva, Garage Band music and Sound Effects creation, and iMovie video editing)  Students are also introduced to AI, Augmented and Virtual Reality apps and headsets to learn about the cutting edge of tech! In addition to digital citizenship, the students will be encouraged to promote causes they care about and become digital activists!

Internet Safety
Issues of Internet safety, cyber-bullying, and the appropriate use of information found on the Internet are addressed in an age-appropriate manner within both the school's technology classes and students' regular classrooms. The third, fourth, fifth, and sixth graders in the technology program will participate in Be Internet Awesome, a multifaceted program designed to teach kids the skills they need to be safe and smart online.

GATE - Gifted and Talented Education
Elizabeth Andrews (also the District Office Manager) has over twenty years of experience teaching GATE and related classes. Students in the third grade are assessed using the RAVEN Standard Progressive Matrices. Results from this assessment along with other assessments, classroom achievement, and teacher recommendations help us determine who is an appropriate fit for the Gifted and Talented Education Program.

The fourth, fifth, and sixth grade students participating in GATE will engage in a weekly class covering topics not normally covered in the elementary school curriculum, such as reasoning, logic, electronics, economics, personal finance, advanced science or math topics, or other topics of interest to the students. Classes will be small and focused on keeping students challenged and engaged, with multiple opportunities to discuss and engage in rich, complex ideas with like-minded peers.

Accelerated Math
​In addition to GATE, students in first through sixth grades with the appropriate skills have the option to pursue an accelerated math program. Math classes are taught at the same time in 1st-6th grades so that each student can attend a math class at the  grade level appropriate to their skills. Grade leveled math skills are described in this document: Math Goals.

Students investigate 3D model creation.

Elizabeth Andrews, GATE Instructor

Making a stop motion animation film.

Mechanical engineering with powered up Legos.

Coding a 'fruit keyboard' using micro:bits.

Learning embroidery and sewing techniques.