Technology, Media Literacy, and GATE (Gifted and Talented Education)
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Note: You can view student-made videos here: Pacific School Vimeo Channel
Jennifer Konicke (Miss Jennifer) instructs grades 3-6 in the use of computer technology on a weekly basis in our library media lab. The technology program integrates computers in support of the core curriculum. This program teaches children how to use computers creatively to achieve their goals. Miss Jennifer also serves as Pacific School's Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) teacher.
3rd Grade Computer Classes In the third grade we concentrate on basic skills of typing, mouse use, file management, digital drawing, and basic coding. Some of the projects include Typing Club, code.org, and learning to be safe online. 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 Students in the fourth grade are assessed with the RAVEN Standard Progressive Matrices, along with classic creativity challenges. These evaluations 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 be engaged in project-based learning activities. Some of the projects the students explore include, media production, song-writing, e-textiles, soft circuits, science enrichment, game creation, stop-motion animation, sewing, and maker-tinkering. In addition to GATE, students in first through sixth grades with the appropriate skills have the option to attend math class at a higher grade level. Pacific School Film Festival Every year students are also encouraged to make a short film for Pacific School's Annual Film Festival. 
Students voting on films in the MY HERO International Film Festival
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Ms. Jennifer Konicke, Technology and GATE Instructor
Recording an original song about wellness!
Working on a music video!
Students making a stop motion animation.
Students in GATE built a ROBOT!
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