2026-2027 School Year

Digital Literacy for Middle School GVL

Monday AND Wednesday

Course Description

Digital Literacy is the ability to navigate our digital world using a multitude of skills to communicate proficiently and effectively. It is important for students to be properly equipped to use digital tools and technologies in order to operate in this digital society.

This course is an elective and is to be considered for students who would like to gain experience with Google Workspace as they utilize Drive, Docs, Slides, Sheets and more. In addition, students will use Common Sense Media lessons, which will be dedicated to digital etiquette with a focus on topics like online behavior, digital footprint, and media literacy.

In this course students will use technology to collaborate, evaluate, and creatively communicate information through different platforms. They will develop awareness of technology’s impact on both society and students while beginning to cultivate safe and manageable online habits. The exposure to digital skills in this course is a tool that supports student success.

To be successful in this class:

Students should come to class with needed supplies including a laptop or Chromebook; this device must have Wi-Fi and internet browsing capabilities.  Students must be ready to utilize critical thinking, work well collaboratively, participate and follow directions. All assignments will be completed in class; however, unfinished assignments may need to be completed as homework prior to the next class.

Grades: 7th Grade, 8th Grade

Course Tuition and Enrollment Fees can be found HERE. If applicable, see below for additional course fees (supply, lab, textbook, etc.)

Additional Course Fees: $5 supply fee

Required Materials

  • Laptop or Chromebook with Wi-Fi and internet browsing capability (iPads/tablets are not compatible with this course).  *Please note the machine must be recently updated and able to run current programs efficiently.
  • wireless mouse is suggested but not required (Link for example)
  • pencils

Meet Betsy Branche

Education:

  • BA in Elementary Education and Masters of Education in Educational Leadership

Certifications:

  • Certified in middle school level math and science, elementary and administration

Teaching Experience:

  • 4 years teaching 5th grade all subjects and team teaching math and science
  • 2 years teaching 6th grade math and science
  • 4 years leading women’s ministry and bible studies
  • Homeschooling my own children since 2019

UHC Courses Taught:

  • Math 6
  • Math Labs
  • Digital Literacy
  • Biblical Worldview

Began teaching at UHC in 2023