Students
entering the Technology Academy can expect traditional teaching
methods enhanced by engaged learning. Engaged learning can be described
as a team teaching approach that reaches students through a project
or theme-based, student-centered, blending of two or more subject
areas in a “real world” setting. Students will use technology
as a tool for research and presentation of a final product. In addition,
regular subject instruction will incorporate technology as a daily
hands-on tool. This combination of learning approaches will maximize
the student’s ability to exceed the Illinois State Learning
Standards.
Required Freshman
Studies:
Studies
in English/Language Arts: English 1 (Technology Academy)
This course is the initial course for the college-bound student
within the framework of the Technology Academy. This course will
prepare the student for writing, research, development of job-related
communication skills, and critical thinking using technology and
a laptop computer as major learning tools. Using themes consistent
with other courses in the academy, this course will be taught using
interdisciplinary methods. Students will be expected to complete
two to four interdisciplinary projects. There is daily homework.
Studies
in Science: Applied Physics (Technology Academy)
Students enrolled in Applied Physics will experience a hands-on
approach to science. Physics is the conceptual backbone of science
and technology; therefore, it is an excellent starting point into
scientific investigation. The study of the physical world around
us provides a natural flow into technology. Students will use graphing
programs, spreadsheets, and other application programs as they study
topics of motion, sound and light, electricity, and the atom.
Studies
in Modern Languages: Spanish 1 (Technology Academy)
This course is an introductory study of the Spanish language that
will develop the four basic skills of listening, speaking, reading
and writing. Presentation and practice of functional expressions,
vocabulary, and grammatical structures will be conducted primarily
in Spanish. The focus of the class will be on the development of
communicative proficiency. Cultural and vocational topics will also
be covered. There will be extensive use of computer technology via
the Internet to develop relationships with partner classrooms in
other countries.
Studies
in Social Science: Social Studies (Technology Academy)
This course is designed to develop specific social studies skills,
including the gathering, understanding and interpreting of facts,
concepts, charts, graphs, tables, maps and atlas work, writing and
conceptualizing. The skills will be developed within a historical
context, which will include a study of world history from prehistoric
times to modern day society. Students will be involved in projects
that investigate the culture and customs of various civilizations
using the laptop for research, organization, problem solving, and
publishing of their findings.
Studies
in Business Education: Keyboarding/Software Applications
The first portion of this course will emphasize proper keyboarding
techniques, improving keyboarding skills, and basic computer operations.
The remainder of the year will focus on the development of proficiency
on various software applications to be used in the Academy. In-depth
practice in the use of Microsoft Office Professional applications
(Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Access) and other applications such
as Inspirations will be achieved through various activities. Students
will gain proficiency in the creation of Web documents through the
use of Dreamweaver, and in proper online research techniques through
hands-on activities. In addition to the development of these integral
technical skills, students will undertake career exploration activities
in the second semester.
Additional
Studies:
Studies
in Math: Algebra 1 or Higher
We do not use technology for long without discovering that we have
called our mathematical abilities into use. Whether it be a matter
of visualizing font sizes in a word processed document or drafting
a three-dimensional picture of a machine part, our math abilities,
at some level, are engaged. As many students in the Technology Academy
will be entering their freshman year at differing math levels, it
is not practical to limit students to one particular math course
in the freshman curriculum. However, because of the close link between
technology use and math, freshmen entering the academy will be required
to have concurrent enrollment in Algebra I or higher. Those incoming
freshmen who desire to enter the Academy but are not able to meet
this requirement should talk to their counselor about summer school
options.
Electives:
Student’s Choice
Freshman students in the Technology Academy may choose an elective,
such as Band or NJROTC, as an overload based upon availability.
Prior to entering the Academy, Technology Academy students will
have an opportunity to earn 1/2 credit in Exploration in Technology
by taking advantage of a school-paid summer school course.
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