The majority of the course is project-based. These projects will allow you to apply your computer skills to real life. We will use reading, math, language arts, science, history and other skills. We will do some book work, but the majority of the time will be on the computers. ALL COMPUTER WORK must be completed in the classroom to assure that all students have the same access to the same programs.
NO DISKS are allowed in the classroom.

All students having access to computers at home is a wide-spread assumption that is leading to thoughts that all students are at the same point in ability using the computers. Though many students do have easy access to computers and are able to work on them freely, we are finding that many do not. Therefore, we strive to allow every student the opportunity to work at their own level incorporating basic skills to the more advanced usages of programs.

Weeks 1 - 2: Introduction to Computers
During the first week of Technology Applications the students are allowed to explore the world of computers and learn the correct terms and usages of the hardware. They also become familiar with the keyboard, and we stress proper technique and posture.

The following are examples of the work completed in class.

• Hardware and software terms
• Parts of the Computers
• Keyboarding (Mavis Beacon) - posture, hand positioning, key location
• Mouse control - making a self-portrait in Microsoft Paint - this project allows the students to learn about mouse control, as well as, using the correct buttons on the mouse, and single vs. double clicking.
  • Examples of Self Portraits - Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, Advanced(2)

Weeks 3-4: Word Processing (Word)
Many students have had access to Microsoft Word in the content area classes. However, the students have not had complete teaching as to the ins and outs of all Word has to offer. In our projects, we start with the basics of font selection, color, size, style, and tabs, then move to the more advanced margins, page borders, clip art and Word Art.

• Introduction to Microsoft Word - vocabulary and uses, inserting clip art, Word Art
• The Milkmaid and Her Pail and Me from A to Z

Weeks 5-6 Spreadsheets (Excel)
Excel is a program that most students will not utilize until high school. However, we like to introduce the students to Microsoft Excel. In our program we show the students how to use tables, formulas, and graphs.

• Introduction to Microsoft Excel
• Cents-Able Shoes, Analyzing Student Votes, Stock Market Set-up

Weeks 7-8: Multimedia Presentations (Power Point)
Students have had exposure to Microsoft Power Point from Kindergarten until middle school. In weeks 7-10 the students combine their new found knowledge of the Power Point basics with their ability to utilize the resources available on the Internet.

• Introduction to Power Point
• Quadrilaterals

Weeks 9-10: Multimedia Presentations and Internet Research (Power Point)

• Research using the Internet
• Power Point presentations "Where would you go?" - The students choose a place they would like to visit and do research on the area. The must list the motto, the climate, tourist attractions, restaurants, etc.

Weeks 11-12: Desktop Publishing
Microsoft Publisher offers the students an opportunity to create multiple publications ranging from greeting cards to calendars to brochures. Utilizing the information from "Where would you go?", the students create a tourist brochure in Microsoft Publisher.

• Introduction to Microsoft Publisher
• Tourist Brochure