Intermediate

How to Pick a Course

TechnoKids Intermediate Curriculum follows a progressive learning framework, where skills and competencies develop gradually across grades 6-9. Nevertheless, each TechnoKids course can be taught independently or combined with other titles to create a distinctive learning experience for middle school students. Here are some recommendations for choosing an Intermediate course:

• Consult the Scope & Sequence.

  This framework organizes courses according to grade level and age. The difficulty level of courses progresses from left to right. As a result, the course in the first column is appropriate for the beginning of the school year, while the one in the last column is better suited for the end of the school year.

• Assess whether a course aligns with the developmental stage of your students.

  While the Scope & Sequence framework provides recommendations, it's essential to evaluate the specific needs of your learners. If they require more challenging tasks, opt for a course from a higher grade. Conversely, if your students require simpler assignments, select a course from a lower grade.

• Consider the technology skill you are required to teach.

  Each TechnoKids course emphasizes a key digital literacy skill, which serves as the central focus of the lessons. For instance, the activities may highlight word processing, spreadsheets, presentation, or coding. Select a course that matches your specific needs.

• Integrate a course into an existing curriculum unit.

  TechnoKids courses offer flexibility as many of the tasks are open-ended. You can choose a course that aligns with a topic or theme you are currently teaching in another subject like history, mathematics, or language arts. For example, TechnoEarth integrates into an environmental unit, and TechnoMap fits well with geography.

• Choose a project you want students to create.

  Explore the course descriptions to understand the assignments students undertake. For instance, are you interested in having your students invent AI prototypes, design an infographic, code a web page, participate in digital debate, or promote a weekend getaway?

• Identify the available software.

  TechnoKids courses use various applications including Microsoft Office, Google Docs, Scratch, and IDLE Python. Before making a choice, assess whether students have the required software on their devices.

• Take into account students' interests.

  TechnoKids courses offer numerous opportunities to apply digital tools in creative ways. Discuss with your students which ones capture their interests. For example, they can choose to enhance their word processing skills by creating either a fan club newsletter in TechnoNewsletter or by commemorating a notable person in TechnoBiography.