Kindergartners learn about online safety: what types of information are appropriate to share online and what to do if something or someone makes you feel uncomfortable online.

1st grade

First graders learn about the difference between fiction and nonfiction and the typical characteristics of each.

2nd grade

Students learn about search engines and how to use them effectively. We will begin our saint research project soon!

3rd grade

We learn that information can be organized to make it more accessible - and that our library uses Dewey Decimal Classification for non-fiction. The fiction section is organized by genre. We are learning characteristics of different genres. All students will have a unit of LEGO WeDo robotics which will incorporate authentic research along with a technological challenge.

4th & 5th grade

We learn effective methods for researching using the internet. We will explore our connection to the world through the internet and learn how to navigate it safely by earning our Digital Passport. And all students will have a unit of LEGO WeDo robotics which will incorporate authentic research along with a technological challenge.

6th grade Digital Literacy

Sixth graders learn use digital tools and networks ethically, responsibly and creatively. We discuss copyright, piracy, and plagiarism and how those concepts work in our digital world. We learn how the internet works (it's not magic!) and how to effectively search then evaluate results. And we discuss online communication and our developing digital footprint.

7th grade Digital Literacy

As most 7th graders turn 13 and can now use many social media sites, it is a perfect time for digital citizenship. We discuss safe communication; respecting creators' works; cyberbullying; protecting our privacy; and building a positive digital footprint. We also use more advanced research tools like databases.

8th grade Digital Literacy

After reviewing the ethical use of information, we focus on media literacy: what messages do we receive throughout our day? Who created the message and what is its real purpose? Can I check its accuracy and identify any bias in the message? How can I participate in the global learning community?

• read aloud to them (even to older kids) or listen to audio books together
• surround them with reading options - chapter books of all genres, picture books, comics, cookbooks, how-to books, joke books, fact books, magazines - all are great options for any age
• let them choose what they want to read
• visit the library often - try your public library branch, or SHCS Library is open until 4 daily, except Wed. until 2:50. Parents are welcome to create an account and check out materials.
• be a role model by reading too!