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APEX MIDDLE SCHOOL

400 E. Moore St . Apex, NC 27502 phone-919-387-2181

Business Computer Technology

Family & Consumer Science

Mechanical Drawing, Woodworking

Exploring Careers, Small Engines, Engineering

Career & Technology Elective Opportunities for Apex Middle School Students

A note to parents: Keyboarding was no longer offered on the high school level beginning school year 2004-05. Therefore, it is critical that students take keyboarding in the middle school. "The State of North Carolina legislated that beginning with the graduating class of 2001, students will be required to pass a computer competency test to receive a high school diploma. The first opportunity for students to take the test will be in grade eight. The elective, Keyboarding/Computer Literacy, is highly recommended for 6th graders in preparation for this test".

(quoted from page 10 of the Program Planning Guide for Middle School 2004-05)

This course is designed to teach basic keying skills, which consists of manipulation of letter, figure/symbol, and basic service keys by "touch." Emphasis is on daily use of a computer system and appropriate software to provide integrated training through a learn/practice/sustain/assess plan of skill building. Communication skills are reinforced as students format, compose, and proofread. Keyboarding is an essential life skill that is needed in our technoligical lives.

Keyboarding is the foundation course needed to help students pass the NC Computer Competency Skills Test taken in October of the 8th grade year. Passing this test is required in order to receive a High School Diploma. Keyboarding is also instrumental in enabling students to work more accurately and quickly in all other classes and in future life endeavors.

BUSINESS COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY

(Pre-requisite: Keyboarding)

This course is designed to provide hands-on instruction in basic computer hardware concepts and software applications. Emphasis is placed on extending and reinforcing touch keyboarding skills, while providing experience for learning word processing, database, spreadsheet, graphic, and telecommunication applications. Communication skills and basic mathematical concepts are reinforced in this course. Work-based learning strategies appropriate for this course are field trips and job shadowing. Simulations, projects, teamwork and FBLA leadership activities, meetings, conferences, and competitions provide opportunities for application of instructional competencies.

EXPLORING CAREER DECISIONS

This course is designed to provide an orientation to the world of work. Experiences are designed to introduce students to the technical nature of today's world and the role of productive workers. Activities enable students to increase self-awareness and make wise educational and occupational decisions as they plan for careers. Opportunities for leadership development and further application of instructional competencies are developed as well. The formal career development planning process often begins within this course.

EXPLORING LIFE SKILLS (FACS)

This course explores life management skills essential to the work of the family. Topics include resource management, nutrition and wellness, personal and social responsibility, fashion and appearance, and career development. The focus is on developing a foundation for the application of life management skills. Skills in applying basic academic skills, problem solving, decision making, and creative and critical thinking are reinforced in this course. This course also contributes to the development of the career development plan. Work-based learning strategies appropriate for this course are field trips, job shadowing, and service learning. Life skills development and FHA/HERO leadership activities provide the opportunity to apply instructional competencies and work-place readiness skills to authentic experiences.

EXPLORING TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS

(Including: Exploring Technology Systems, Woodworking/Construction/Manufacturing, Mechanical Drawing, Small Engines/Transportation)

This course is designed to allow students to explore basic technological concepts and related career fields. Topics include technology systems, technical drawing, graphic design, modeling skills, computer systems, and electricity/electronics. Activities are structured to integrate physical and social sciences, mathematics, language, and fine arts. This course contributes to the development of a career development plan. Work-based learning strategies appropriate for this course include job shadowing and field trips. Exploring Technology Systems and TSA technical and leadership activities enhance the students' appreciation of technical and engineering career fields.