High School Computer Applications Syllabus


Room 14: Computer Lab

Course Description

This is a survey course of the concepts taught in basic computer applications with the intent to prepare students to be able to do the following:

:     Define basic computer terminology

:     Identify basic computer hardware and software

:     Identify issues, ethics, and security concerns related to computer use

:     Use basic operating system commands and functions

:     Explain uses/advantages of word processing

:     Define basic word processing terminology

:     Create, open, save, view, and print documents

:     Format documents

:     Edit documents

:     Use desktop publishing techniques

:     Explain uses and advantages of databases

:     Define basic database terminology

:     Create and edit databases

:     Explain uses and advantages of spreadsheets

:     Create, format and edit spreadsheets

:     Explain uses and advantages of telecommunications

:     Define basic telecommunication terminology

:     Transmit and receive electronic messages

:     Access on-line information for research

:     Use the Internet as a source of information, communication, and as a problem solving resource

:     Choose the appropriate applications and resources to solve a problem

:     Use computer-aided instruction, software, and the Internet to enhance critical thinking, math, language, reading, science, and social studies skills and information

Programs Covered

:     Groupwise E-mail System

:     Novell (School System)

:     Internet Explorer

:     Microsoft PowerPoint

:     Microsoft Word

:     Microsoft Excel

:     Microsoft Access

:     Microsft Publisher

:     Microsoft Picture Manager (or similar picture editing program)

Grading Procedures

Homework, quizzes and tests will be administered as deemed appropriate. Grades will be calculated on a point system.  Grades will not be weighted.  Daily practice will be worth 5-10 points.  Most chapter exercises will be worth 10-20 points, and most tests will be worth 50-100 points.  Special projects will count as a test grade.

Homework and other evaluative assignments are an integral part of the learning process and are expected to be done promptly. Homework will be graded on an all or none basis, partially completed homework will not be accepted by the teacher. All homework is due at the beginning of the period unless otherwise noted. All homework should be typed, unless told otherwise. All assignments must be neat and include student’s name, date, assignment, and period.

**Please note that all special projects/papers will be announced in advance.

Materials/Supplies

To have an effective school year, the following materials will be required in class daily:

*Notebooks (1st two weeks)

*Paper (1st two weeks)

*Pencils or Pens (Blue/Black ink-1st two weeks)

*Textbook (class room set)

Make-Up Work

q       It is YOUR responsibility to make up work you have missed. If you are absent, and your absence is excused, it is your responsibility to check the “Daily Assignment Calendar” for missed assignments.

q       Students excused from class for dental or medical appointments are responsible for any assignments and/or tests due the next day.

q       If homework/tests are assigned prior to the absence, the student is responsible for the test or homework upon his/her return to school.

q       In case of an absence, which does not pertain to the previous 2 situations, all make-up work must be made up within two times the number of days the student was absent, or receive a grade of zero.

q       The teacher will not ask for your missed work. This is an effort to promote student accountability, responsibility, and maturity.

Classroom Policies & Procedures

Procedures are definitely a part of our daily lives. Motorists, pedestrians, passengers boarding a plane, athletes who play sports and individuals that work in various capacities from day to day, follow procedures. Therefore, this class is no exception; procedures are vital for efficient functioning.

Classroom Rules

1.      Be in your seat and ready to begin when the bell rings

2.      Bring all needed materials to class (books, notebook, paper, pencil, etc). We will work EVERY day. Therefore, it is imperative that each student brings all needed supplies each day.

3.      Speak at appropriate times using appropriate language and voices. It is extremely important that we respect those who have the floor. If you have a comment or question, please raise your hand to be recognized.

4.      Be respectful of others and other’s property!

5.      Do not bring food or drink into the classroom or lab.  Spills can harm the computers.  No exceptions will be made.

6.      Go to the restroom between classes and other allotted breaks.

7.      Do not leave your seats for any reason without permission from the instructor.

8.      Obey all school rules.

Consequences for Violations of Classroom/School Rules

First Offense:                Verbal Warning

Second Offense:           Detention/Parents or guardian notified

Third Offense:               Discipline Referral (Office)

**Severe disruptions or offensive behavior will not be tolerated! Students will be sent immediately to a school administrator.