Technology

The computer lab forms an essential part of the media experience for HMJDS students. In addition, classroom computers enhance learning and allow for differentiation, addressing different learning styles and providing opportunities for integration and curriculum enrichment. From an introduction to the computer and basic activities in the early grades to keyboarding, word processing and on-line research in the intermediate grades, technology supports all of the curricular areas. Students learn to appreciate and use the computer to enhance their learning through activities which are fun, creative and inquiry based. Through Portaportal, families can access HMJDS teacher approved websites by grade level to provide additional skills practice and creative activities supporting grade level curriculum.

Kindergarten

Kindergarten focuses on the basic use of the computer. Children learn about the parts of the computer, mousing skills, and multimedia navigation. Besides the basics, visits to the computer lab are project based with many opportunities for computer use in the classroom. Students learn:

  • How to open programs
  • KidPix; clicking and dragging to create lines for drawing
  • Introduction to age appropriate programs on Portaportal and SMARTnotebook

“Technology is thoughtfully infused into the daily life of students, staff, and parents at HMJDS. Since both my husband and I work in technology fields, we appreciate that cutting edge technology is a natural part of our children’s school experience.” – HMJDS Parent

First Grade

First graders build on previously learned skills and integrate computer skills with the science and social studies curriculum. Among the new tools and skills are:

  • Using Kerpoof, making Thanksgiving cards for Minneapolis Veteran’s Hospital
  • Creating a slide show on KidPix showing the metamorphosis of the caterpillar
  • Saving and finding work on the network

Second Grade

Second graders further expand their use of Kerpoof for a variety of projects including making Passover cards for Israeli soldiers. They are introduced to Google Earth. Among the skills learned are:

  • Logging on; saving and finding a file
  • Finding an aerial view of your home on Google Earth
  • Using Jaycut for a project on the Twin Cities.

Third Grade

Technology in third grade builds on previous grades basic skills to create projects with various Microsoft Office products. Third graders create projects using these tools to begin to research and format pages. Third graders also begin to learn how to keyboard with proper posture and finger placement. Other skills and activities include:

  • Word processing
  • Internet and multimedia literacy
  • Basic digital photography

Fourth Grade

Fourth grade takes computer program use to the next level. Fourth graders take their prior knowledge and build upon it as well as independently work on classroom projects using this knowledge. Fourth graders continue to build upon their keyboarding skills increasing their speed and ability to keyboard efficiently. Students will learn and experience:

  • Desktop publishing with text and graphics using Microsoft Office
  • Internet researching; exploring reliable websites
  • Application of skills by creating multi-media presentations using programs like Glogster