This project addresses the performance indicators for upper elementary students. However, my students are not on grade level. Therefore, I initiate projects such as this with students who may be in 4-12 grades. As indicated on the holistic rubric, students at the "intermediate" level would be assigned a project such as this. Within the context of this unit, students use the keyboard, use the network to access images of America, and use technology tools to communicate and collaborate. All these expectations are addressed in the ISTE student standards. Also, this project encourages basic concepts of multiculturalism, patriotism, and writing skills. This interdisciplinary approach helps to meld a various subject areas into one project.

ISTE Teacher Standards:
I. Technology operations and concepts
II. Planning and designing learning environments and experiences
III. Teaching, learning, and the curriculum
IV. Assessment and evaluation

NBPTS (National Board of Professional Teaching Standards:
I. Goals and purposes of art education
III. Content and teaching of art
V. Instructional Resources
VII. Reflection, Assessment, and Evaluation

State Standards:
Holistic technology rubric is based on benchmarks of Florida State Standards

All standards listed here are those that best describe this unit. This lesson is very basic in concept and technology skills utilized. Therefore, the (ISTE, NBPTS, and Florida state) standards all address the basic requirements of art education and its link to technology.As an educator, this unit will help you to become proficient with the use of technology at a basic level. It is important that you understand the fundamental concepts of computer use, as well as, the basics of the application Hyperstudio. As with many projects, planning and designing a unit such as this may take time and a number of attempts to perfect its implementation. It is difficult, but worthwhile, to try to integrate the uses of technology while giving students the opportunity to learn information pertinent to various disciplines. For example, the majority of my students do not like to write even one sentence. By requiring the students to write a statement within the frame of their slide strengthens their literacy skills. Another example is the collaborative efforts in a project like this. For students with behavior disorders, it is extremely important to encourage cooperation and character building with lessons. This "America" project helps to accomplish both of those goals.Assessment and evaluation is important regardless of your student base. It is vital that your objectives and goals are realistic and match the assessment expectations presented to your students. Working with severely emotionally disturbed students, it is tempting to be happy that they attempt to do the project at all, since they lack motivation and at times, tend to be unresponsive to directions given. However I have found that if you explain your objectives and keep high expectations, many of the students will achieve to that level.

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original artwork © Sheree Rensel
May 2002
CONTACT: wizzlewolf@aol.com