Beginning Computer Concepts

2011-2012 School Year
1st Semester Course
Grades 4-6 Recommended
Thursday

Course Tutor:
To be announced soon

Course Description:
Beginning Computer Concepts is a one-semester course designed to familiarize students with the basics of computer science while using the computer as a valuable tool to help improve their academic and organizational skills. The class uses a fun learning environment and a project-based approach to learn keyboarding skills and introduce the major Microsoft programs. By the end of the course, students should be able to type approximately 40 words per minute and independently navigate through the basics of the Microsoft programs. Students will spend approximately 20 minutes of each class in keyboard practice and an hour of instruction and applied practice in the following units of study:
•    Intro to Microsoft One Note
•    Intro to Microsoft Word
•    Intro to Microsoft Excel
•    Intro to Microsoft PowerPoint
•    Intro to Microsoft Publisher

Homework Commitment and Grading:
•    20 minutes of keyboarding practice four days a week, keeping records of words per minute
•    All software application activities and assignments will be handled in class with no homework. Exams will be fun and stress free with no preparation required at home. There will be a final project prepared in class and presented on the final day of class in place of the final exam.
•    Grading will be based on participation in class projects and keyboard practice at home.

Course Prerequisites:
None

Course Fees:
$  5 copy fee payable to the tutor on the first day of class
$30 lab fee payable to Teenworks

Required Software:
Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing, Deluxe 17 (or newer)
Internet Access

Required Supplies:
½” three-ring binder
5 tab dividers