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Technical Communications uses the Maine Learning Results as its skill and knowledge base. Since the MLR’s cover grades 9-12, Technical Communications emphasizes different learning results in each course, but each year the concept of review and extend is utilized, so, in essence, all of the following learning results are covered by the program of study.

Technical Communications I is a course which focuses on the practical or technical side of writing – writing in different modes i.e., letters, persuasion, memos, business forms. It also contains practical reading of articles both informative and technical in nature. Career and job research is included as well. Communication is addressed not only in writing but also in oral and visual presentations. Computer technology and the Internet are integral to the program.

Technical Communications II is a course that focuses more on all aspects of communication and teamwork. Practical writing and research become more integrated and original. Reading widens to include more literature and fiction making connections and meaning in students’ lives. Speaking and listening become more a part of the daily work.

Technical Communications III focuses largely upon reading as its basis. Many genres are represented in this course. From reading all other learning results flow. Projects involving communication, research, writing, and technology prove what skills students have obtained and mastered.

Requirements

This course will require students to work individually and/or in teams on a variety of projects, such as slide show presentations. A variety of literacy strategies are used to assist students in learning the vocabulary, content, and skills in the course.  They include Bellwork, Word Walls, SmartBoard technology, reading current articles from trade and non-trade magazines, occasional math problems linked to vocabulary, puzzles, or lateral thinking problems, etc.

  • Projects: VoiceThreads, PowerPoint of careers or tools in trade, independent and original research
  • Homework: one article a week, reading and metacognitive questions and text annotation
  • Technology:  Research using the Internetexample:create VoiceThreads
  • Writing/Career Prep:  first year students will complete a personal statement & resume, and cover letter. Second year students extend and revise. Research reports, short stories, essays, etc.
  • Professional Attributes: Students will display high standards for attendance and punctuality by arriving on time, prepared for work, and complying with attendance policies as well as rules and regulations. Students will also display a positive attitude behave appropriately, and work effectively as a team member.
  • Tests:  Periodically, vocabulary is assessed. At the end of a communication unit, when a lengthy reading has been completed, at the end of a semester, diagnostic tests for some skill sets/knowledge, pre and post for a project (perhaps 6-10/yr), tests are administered.

Instructors

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Sue Stewart

Email Sue Stewart

I have been in education since 1988 in various roles. My Bachelor's Degree in English from the Unive... MORE

Details

Schedule

This course meets Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, and Fri.

Location

This course is held at Mid-Coast School of Technology .