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Rocket
Zone |
What is the Rocket Zone?
The Rocket Zone
is a comprehensive system designed to support the successful implementation of a
School’s curriculum through technology. Developed and tested by teachers, this system
defines “technologies” as “tools of the time”—tools to assist
students and teachers in the work of the school day. The central components of Rocket Zone
feature both electronic and traditional technologies ranging from multimedia computers,
audio/video equipment, and scanners to microscopes, erector sets, and AlgeBlocks. The
seven component stations of the MidTracs system are:
Publication, Investigation, Sights
and Sounds, Invention, Fabrication, Food and Fashion, and Presentation.
All of the stations feature the
TracPacs curriculum application series. The TracPacs curriculum application series
reinforces the workplace standards identified by the SCANS report. The SCANS report,
issued by the United States Department of Labor, gave businesses a platform to communicate
to educators what students need to know to be successful in the workplace. This
study was done in the early nineties, and it suggests that students be able to manage
resources, work well with others, organize information, design and improve systems, and
use technologies among other basic skills and personal qualities.
Publication
This station features computer software
and equipment that will allow students to produce first class publications such as
booklets, posters, banners, reports, and multimedia presentations.
Station components include:
• 10 computers • Software packages • Copy
machine • Flatbed scanner • Laminator • Book binder • CD-Rom burner
• Zip driveÆ • Paper trimmer • Specialty staplers • Publishing
consumables • 2 - Color inkjet printer • Laser printer • TV/VCR combo
• Clip art • T-shirt maker iron press • Yamaha keyboard
Investigation
This station is designed to create a
platform for information acquisition. Students will explore applied science, applied
technology, and applied math. This station also provides unique opportunities for
investigating, research, and inquiry.
Station components include:
• 8 computers• Software packages• Color
inkjet printer• GeoSafariÆ• MathSafariÆ• Talking GlobeÆ•
K’NEXÆ • Davis Weather StationÆ • 18 Science/Math Manipulative kits
• Microscope • Videoflex • Simple machines • TV/VCR combo • Books
and Videos • Wind Tunnel • Loadstar 2000
• Hydroponic Garden • Robotics • Flight Simulator
Sights And Sounds
This station introduces young children
to audio and video technology. Students will have access to various types of sound
equipment; video equipment; and a host of opportunities to plan, produce, and present
their own productions.
Station components include:
• 1 computers • 4 - 13”
televisions • Video Mixer • Software packages including Adobe Premiere
• MIDI Keyboard • 2 - 8mm camera and tripod • News desk • Video editor
• Video titler • Digital camera • Microphone with stand • Wireless
microphone • 3 VCRs • 3 Standing lights • Sound proofing
Invention
This station brings out the Thomas
Edison in every child. Students will practice critical and creative thinking skills as
they solve problems, allocate resources and materials, and invent and build projects and
exhibits.
Station components include:
• Storage containers • Commercial building
K’NEXÆ, ErectorÆ, • Lincoln LogsÆ, and CapselaÆ • Lego Dachta Robotics
• Tempera paint and paint brushes • Construction paper • Hot glue guns
• Scissors • Modeling clay • Yarn • Glitter • Colored chalk
• Felt • Shaky eyes • Brass fasteners • Pipe cleaners, cotton balls,
and craft sticks • 2 Computers
Fabrication
This station provides tools and
equipment that allow young children to fabricate products and projects. This
adult-monitored station promotes problem solving skills and applied science and math.
Station components include:
• 1 Computer • Autocad Software
• Autocad Printer • Scroll saw • Drill press • ShopvacÆ
• Hand drills and sanders • Vises • Miter box • Hammers and
mallets • Screwdrivers • Pliers • Clamps • Files • Hand saws
• Levels • Safety gear • Wrenches
Food And Fashion
This station includes a fully equipped
kitchen and fashion center that allows students to cook; create; invent; and apply skills
such as math, science concepts, planning, and teamwork.
Station components include:
• 1 computer • Software packages •
Microwave • Bread machine • Food dehydrator • Food processor • Hand
mixer • Stove • Sink • Refrigerator • Cookware • Tableware •
Crock pot • Blender • Sewing machine • Loom
Presentation
This station provides a state-of-the-art
platform that will allow students to make top quality presentations. It is also designed
to support multimedia presentations, satellite and cable feeds, and other types of
necessary equipment. Students will practice public speaking and communication skills in
this unique station.
Station components include:
• 1 computer • Software packages • 27”
monitor • Surround sound speakers • CD player • Dual cassette deck
• VCR • Receiver/amplifier • U.S./World
Maps • Overhead projector and screen • Podium
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