Welcome to Adventures in Computers

Mrs. Bartlett ~ Andover Middle School

   ph. 316.218.4610

e-mail me at bartletl@usd385.org  

Course Description:

This semester-long class is designed to introduce basic computing skills that will be useful in school, business, and everyday life. Students will master outcomes related to general computer functions, word processing, desktop publishing, the basics of database systems, the versatility of spreadsheets, and how to effectively use presentation software. In addition, the touch method of keyboarding will be emphasized and reinforced.

Software/Programs Used:

Microsoft Office—includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator (if time)

Internet sites- for research and investigation

Instruction & Assessment:

Students will be introduced to concepts through instructor-led facilitation, hands-on experimentation, demonstration, & cooperative/peer learning. Students will utilize knowledge of the programs presented through exploration, practice activities, unit quizzes, & projects. Grades will be based on class participation (through teacher observation), proper execution of assigned tasks (daily & long term), written work and vocabulary, and production tests/quizzes.

Outline of Curriculum:

Computer Literacy

Perform and use basic desktop features

Use menu items as well as short-cut operations

Create, manage, save, and retrieve files and folders

Use proper keyboarding technique

Identify hardware and software devices/systems

Demonstrate basic troubleshooting skills and respond to system dialogue

Understand computer vocabulary & utilize available tools

Demonstrate proper care of equipment and materials

Knowledge of Ethical Behavior

Copyright Issues, Plagiarism, Fair Use, Licensing agreements

Computer crimes

Acceptable Use Policy

Word Processing

Demonstrate proficiency in basic page & text formatting by use of computer functions (bold, underline, italics, alignment, tabs, headers, footers, point size, text effects)

Apply word processing concepts and commands to create, save, retrieve, edit, & print a document (able to change page setup and print settings if needed)

Create desktop publishing documents that are well formatted through spacing, design, decoration, and presentation (borders, graphics, fills & patterns, colors, various font sizes/spacing, etc.)

Create tables with borders, gridlines, colors, and graphics

Spreadsheets

Identify key parts of a spreadsheet

Apply spreadsheet concepts and commands to create, save, retrieve, edit, & print spreadsheets (able to set print area, change print set up and settings, & print multiple sheets if needed)

Demonstrate proficiency in basic page & text formatting by use of computer functions (bold, underline, italics, alignment, cut, paste, etc.)

Use calculation formulas and functions of a spreadsheet

Enhance the appearance of the spreadsheet by using formatting tools/features (borders, graphics, fills & patterns, colors, various font sizes/spacing, etc.)

Create, edit, insert, and print charts and graphs

Integrate spreadsheet data with other programs

Publications

Create, edit, and print publications such as brochures, flyers, & newsletters

Demonstrate proficiency in basic page & text formatting by use of computer functions (bold, underline, italics, alignment, cut, paste, text boxes, etc.)

Use and manipulate templates to create publications

Adobe Photoshop

          Create collages using photos, adding layers, applying a mask, retouching photos and creating a photo           montage and more if time allows

Adobe Illustrator (if time allows)

           Create an illustration, set colors, apply gradients and blending modes, and add various effects

Make up Work:

Students who are absent from computer class are expected to make up the work missed. Many times, assignments may build on what has been accomplished in class the day before. For each day absent, students are given two (2) days to make up the work. However, the quicker the student is able to get caught up, the better. It is very necessary that you speak to Mrs. Bartlett about the ability to make up work missed. Time may need to be spent before/after school if necessary.

Late Work:

When work is assigned, a due date will be given. Therefore, work received after it is due is considered late. The following guidelines will be used when grading late work:

• Up to 3 days late Graded as is
• After day 4 up to end of unit Half credit
• Work received for a unit after the unit test No credit