Introduction to Technology

Period 7

Course Description
Robotics/Programming:  The WGMS Robotics course uses Lego Robolab/NXT materials to build a variety of projects.  A series of whole class and small group activities introduce students to robots, how they function, and their uses in society.  Students will use the Robolab/NXT software to program their robots to perform specified actions.  Students will use problem-solving and collaborative learning as they debug the programs they have written and adjust the physical robot they have built.  After completion of the basic robot, teams extend their skills with more advanced building/programming tasks.

Computer:  Students will learn how the computer works through a combination of classroom presentations and hands-on experiences assembling or repairing computers obtained through completion of the Mouse Squad computer maintenance curriculum.  In this part of the course students will assemble, set up, troubleshoot, and test computers and software applications in the classroom.  This process will expose students to computer troubleshooting situations that can arise in school, business, and at home.  In addition to the assembly and maintenance of computers, the curriculum will address safety, computer ethics, and the responsible use of electronic components with respect to environmental consequences and toxic waste concerns.

Required Supplies
Students are required to do all hand written work in black or blue pen or pencil.  No other colors will be accepted for credit.  Each student must have a binder with blank lined paper and a separate section in their binder for this course.

Grading
50% Classwork or Projects
25% Participation
25% Self-Assessment Logs and Quizzes