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The computer curriculum at St. Catherine of
Siena
spans all grade levels PreK-3 through Seventh Grade.
Students in Pre-K and Kindergarten begin learning
basic mouse skills and interaction with computers through
a series of learning games introduced by the teacher.
These games are used to instill both confidence and
competence in computer use.
This learning takes place in the classroom.
First and Second graders begin their formalized
instruction in technology through weekly classes in our
state-of-the-art computer lab.
These students are introduced to topics such as
basic keyboarding skills, mouse skills, moving within
Windows XP, parts of the computer, and basic Internet
safety. Third
graders spend a full year learning how to type by touch.
This skill proves integral not only for later
computer classes but also for the use of technology in
typing papers and completing projects in the upper grades.
Beginning in Fourth grade and carrying through
Seventh, students are introduced to the Microsoft Office
Suite and instructed as to how this technology can be
utilized as part of their learning.
Students will become highly proficient in such
areas as: typing papers in Microsoft Word, generating
multimedia slide presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint,
developing working spreadsheets in Microsoft Excel, and
creating original newsletters, brochures, and calendars in
Microsoft Publisher. These
skills are enhanced through a series of in-class exercises
as well as a number of cross-curricular projects.
Students are further introduced to grade and
age-appropriate lessons regarding Internet safety and
computer ethics. A
formalized computer literacy component is incorporated
into the Seventh grade curriculum to insure that the
students are well-versed in computer terminology as well
as prepared for the High School Placement Test.
The campus at St. Catherine of
Siena
has full wireless capability with Wireless Access Points
in all of the buildings.
The school boasts three laptop carts with 70
wireless laptops available for student use and a
state-of-the-art computer lab with 30 desktop computers
running Windows XP. There
are 165 desktop computers on campus with a minimum of two
computers per classrooms.
Additionally, classrooms in grades 1-7 are equipped
with the latest SMART board technology which is integrated
into the daily lesson plans of our teachers.
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