Elementary (K-5) Tech News

My name is Rajani Tammana (Ms.T), and I am your child’s K–5 Computer Science teacher for the 2026–2027 school year! I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science and bring nine years of teaching experience from working in various schools. This will be my fourth year at American Academy, where I enjoy inspiring students to explore, create, and problem-solve through technology. I look forward to helping your child develop essential digital skills.

Conferences (September 30th & October 1st - 4pm to 7pm):

Please schedule a 10-minute appointment with your Elementary Computer Science Teacher. This is an opportunity to connect, ask questions, and discuss your child’s progress and experience in Computer Science. I look forward to meeting with you! Below is the link,

Conference Link

Course Overview

In each grade they will learn tech skills that build on what they learned from the previous year, so that when they leave me in 5th grade they will be very proficient in a myriad of technology skills.

Students will learn skills in

Typing
Google Workspace
Digital Citizenship
Cyber Safety
Presentation Software
Graphics
Coding
Web Navigation
File Management
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence(AI)

Technology Assignment Policy (3rd - 5th)

If a student is absent, they are welcome to make up their Technology assignments. Make-up work can be completed during WIN time in the Tech Lab or in the homeroom classroom with the teacher's permission.

Students who are present all week but do not complete their work will receive a grade based on what they have finished by the end of the week. Make-up opportunities will not be offered in these cases.
Additional time will be provided in the event of school closures due to snow days, emergencies, or unexpected schedule changes.

"10 Minutes a Day: How Typing Practice Can Make a Difference"

If possible, setting aside just 10 minutes a day for typing practice can significantly boost students' skills and productivity. This regular practice can improve typing speed and accuracy, making it easier for students to complete assignments, take notes, and communicate effectively in today’s digital world. It can also build muscle memory, reduce errors, and increase confidence when working on a keyboard. Over time, this simple habit can save valuable time and help students focus more on their ideas and learning, rather than on the mechanics of typing.

"Typing Goals For Each Grade Level"

2nd grade: 5 - 10 Words Per Minute(WPM) with 75% to 80% accuracy

3rd grade: 10 - 15 Words Per Minute(WPM) with 80% to 85% accuracy

4th grade: 15 - 20 Words Per Minute(WPM) with 85% to 90% accuracy

5th grade: 20 - 25 Words Per Minute(WPM) with 90% to 95% accuracy

Grading

50% - Engagement

In Specials classes, engagement and participation are an important part of the grade. This doesn’t just mean showing up - it means being present, trying your best, following directions, staying on task and contributing to activities.

We understand that every student brings different strengths and comfort levels, so participation is measured by effort, focus, and a willingness to grow, not just talent or performance.

Teachers look for things like:

Active involvement in class activities
Positive attitude and cooperation with peers
Trying new things and responding to feedback
Respecting materials, space, and expectations.

These behaviors help students get the most out of their learning experience and build the life skills that Specials are uniquely designed to support - like creativity, collaboration, discipline, and confidence.

50% - Projects, Skills and Assessments

In Technology class, students earn grades based on their skills, project work, and assessments. Skills are graded through typing, coding, and digital literacy practice, while projects reflect creativity, problem-solving, and effort. Assignments and assessments measure understanding and timely submission. Together, these areas give a clear picture of each student’s progress and achievement.

For 2nd - 5th grade

99-100% (A+) 94-98% (A) 92-93%(A-)
90-91%(B+) 84-89% (B) 82-83% (B-)
80-81% (C+) 74-79% (C) 72-73% (C-)
70-71% (D+) 65-69% (D)
Below 65% (F)

For 1st & Kindergarten

‘ +’ means 95% and above
‘v’ means 80% to 95%
‘-’ means 80% and below

Rotation 1 Curriculum

Pre Technology Test & More

5th,4th, & 3rd grade :

During the first week of Technology class, students will be introduced to foundational digital skills and expectations to set them up for success. We will begin with Intro to Tech – Rules & Procedures, where students learn how to responsibly use devices, follow classroom routines, and understand digital safety expectations. Students will then complete a Typing Pre-Test to assess their current typing speed and accuracy, which will guide their progress throughout the year.

Next, they will take a Technology Pre-Test to evaluate their general understanding of key tech concepts, helping us tailor instruction to their needs. We will also review Snip & Sketch, a useful tool for capturing and editing screenshots—an important skill for completing digital assignments. Students will participate in a lesson on Digital Etiquette, where they will learn how to communicate respectfully and behave responsibly online. To wrap up the week, students will explore Interland, an engaging online game that teaches internet safety, privacy, and ethical choices in a fun and meaningful way. This week builds a strong foundation in digital citizenship and prepares students for more advanced tech projects ahead.

2nd & 1st grade :

During the first week of Technology class, students will be introduced to essential foundational skills that set the tone for the rest of the year. We will start with Intro to Tech – Rules & Procedures, where students will learn how to care for devices, follow classroom routines, and demonstrate responsible digital behavior. To build their keyboarding skills, students will complete a Typing Skills Pre-Test, which helps assess their starting speed and accuracy so we can track improvement over time.

Students will also take a Technology Pre-Test to evaluate their prior knowledge of technology concepts, which helps guide instructional planning. As part of understanding how computers work, students will review the Parts of a Computer, learning the names and functions of components like the monitor, CPU, keyboard, and more. Additionally, students will practice Mouse Skills through interactive activities that improve their ability to click, drag, scroll, and navigate digital tasks with confidence. This first week is focused on building comfort, awareness, and foundational knowledge to ensure students are ready to engage in more advanced technology projects throughout the year.

Kindie :

During the first week of Technology class, students will be introduced to the basics of using technology responsibly and confidently. We begin with Intro to Technology Classroom – Rules & Procedures, where students learn how to take care of devices, follow classroom expectations, and understand the importance of digital safety and respectful behavior. This sets a positive tone and structure for the rest of the year.

Next, students will begin Intro to Typing, where they learn proper finger placement, posture, and keyboard awareness to build a strong foundation for typing skills. They will also explore the Parts of a Computer, identifying and understanding the function of key components such as the monitor, keyboard, mouse, CPU, and ports. To build hands-on confidence, students will engage in activities to develop their Mouse Skills, practicing how to click, double-click, drag, and scroll accurately. These introductory lessons are designed to help students feel comfortable with technology and prepare them for more advanced digital tasks throughout the year.

Rotation 2

Digital Citizenship

In Technology, all grade levels are building strong digital citizenship skills to help students stay safe, respectful, and responsible online. Each grade is engaging in age-appropriate lessons, activities, and games to practice these important concepts:

5th grade :

Students are extending their learning with NetSmartz Kids (Season 2 & 3) and deeper BrainPOP activities on Internet Search, Digital Etiquette,and Online Safety while also applying their knowledge through interactive Digital Passport games.

4th grade:

Students are extending their learning with NetSmartz Kids (Season 2) and deeper BrainPOP activities on Online Safety and Digital Etiquette, while also applying their knowledge through interactive Digital Passport & Compass games.

3rd grade:

Students are exploring online safety and responsible behavior with NetSmartz Kids (Season 1) and BrainPOP activities on topics such as Online Safety and Digital Etiquette, as well as practicing with Digital Passport & Compass games.

2nd grade, 1st, & Kindie:

Students are learning the foundations of digital citizenship through Common Sense Education with interactive activities and guided discussions.

These lessons are designed to prepare students to make smart choices, protect their privacy, and show respect in their digital world.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to me at [email protected].

Trimester 1

Class Schedule

4th Grade: 8:38 - 9:23

2nd Grade: 9:51 - 10:36

5th Grade: 11:32 - 12:17

3rd Grade: 12:20- 1:05

1st Grade: 1:12 - 1:57

Kindergarten:2:00 - 2:45