This course is designed to give students an understanding of how a computer works, its capabilities, limitations, and applications. It includes system components, societal impact, applications, and the use of the Microsoft Office software package. This course is strongly recommended for all students. This course has no prerequisite. Students will learn basic computer concepts with an emphasis on the personal computer and its practical use, including hardware, mechanics of computer operation, application and system software, the Internet and World Wide Web, communications, and computers in society.  The major emphasis will be on the following applications: Keyboarding (Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing), MS Word, MS Excel, Charting, MS PowerPoint, MS Access and integration of these applications.

“I do not fear computers. I fear lack of them.”– Isaac Asimov

"Technological Literacy is a new fundamental for our education system. All of us must develop this literacy if we are to make wise decisions in our roles as citizens and in our personal lives."-- Rod Paige, U.S. Secretary of Education

Course Outline:    Click here for Adobe Acrobat format 

Course Requirements:

Digital Curriculum:  "Applied Educational Systems" and "Microsoft Computer Dictionary".

"Practical Excel 2000" by William B. Bergquist.
 

Electronic Notebook
Pen
USB Drive (backup)

Computer Workstation (Both in school and at home; I am here most afternoons, please come in to catch up on your work.)
The above items are to be brought to class every day.

*You will be utilizing  this year to access download data files and upload completed assignments and assessments.

Students will be expected to manage their time and complete required assignments and participate in class discussions. Classroom activities will include group discussions, problem solving, and individualized instruction. Students are encouraged to work independently and assist others when appropriate.

Grading Scale:

Tests.......................................................................................................................35%
Computer Exercises/Projects..........................................................................................35%

Quizzes....................................................................................................................20%
Teacher Evaluation......................................................................................................10%

Tests:  Students retention of course content is assessed periodically, usually weekly. If a student plans to be absent, they should contact the teacher and arrange for the test to be taken three-school days from the date of absence.  A Final Exam will be administered.
 

Computer Exercises/Projects: The entire semester will involve the use of computer applications to establish the relevance of this important tool to respond in your personal and professional lives.  The emphasis on software will be Windows XP/2000 (networking version of ME, 98, 95, etc.) and Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel, Graphics & PowerPoint.
 

Quizzes:  Student’s retention of course content will be assessed periodically and a grade will be given.  If a student plans to be absent, they should contact the teacher and arrange for the quiz to be taken before the date of absence.
 

Teacher Evaluation:  This subjective grade will include daily attendance, student behavior, classroom preparation, homework, daily work effort, and a notebook that should be updated daily and class participation.  (Preparation includes a student’s ability to bring required materials to class on a daily basis.)

Computer Printout Heading: 
(All printouts are to contain the following header, I will not grade an assignment that does not contain a complete heading.)