COMPUTER APPLICATIONS

Course Overview:

In this course students learn to select appropriate software for various applications and become aware of the fast-changing world of information technology. Students will become knowledgeable in basic computer literacy and will select and use word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, graphics, web-authoring programs, imaging, operating systems, and Internet browser software. Students will become skilled in using common peripheral devices to include scanners, digital cameras, and CD burners. This course provides students with knowledge which is readily applicable in other subject areas and the Senior Project.

Students will engage in a variety of learning experiences, with an emphasis on hands-on computer applications. Students will have access to the most recent hardware and software available at St. Ignatius High School. Students will be assessed on completion of assignments, exams, and major projects.

Topics:

Computer Literacy

Basic vocabulary

Hardware components

Software packages

Operating Systems

Using windows, menus, dialog boxes, toolbars, help

File Management

Making, copying and moving files and folders

Finding a file

Creating shortcuts

Customizing Windows through the Control Panel

Internet

Basic terminology

Search engines (Boolean rules)

Basic operations (Favorites, History, Save as .txt file, etc)

Word Processing

Working with text

Working with paragraphs

Working with documents

Managing files

Using tables

Working with pictures and charts

Create a basic web pages

Presentations

Plan a presentation

Create a presentation

Modify a presentation

Work with text

Work with visual elements

Customize a presentation

Create output

Deliver the presentation

Spreadsheet

Work with cells

Work with files

Format worksheets

Page setup and printing

Working with worksheets and workbooks

Working with formulas and functions

Using charts and objects

Graphics

Modify appearance, size

Save as different files, resolution, etc.

Work with selections

Incorporate color techniques

Demonstrate basic photo retouching

Place type in an image

Flash

Introduction to environment, toolbars, state, timeline

Introduction to basic drawing techniques

Type techniques

Introduction to simple animation and tweening

Sound Editing

Create sound files

Modify sound files

Combine sound files

Integrated projects

Integrate word processing, presentations, spreadsheet, graphics, sound, etc.

Peripheral Equipment

Digital Camera

CD Burner

Scanner

Career Exploration

Exploring the Future of Technology

Content Competencies:

Standard #1: Students demonstrate an understanding of the basic operations of technologies.

Successfully operate a computer system with related peripheral devices
Demonstrate a knowledge of the hardware and software components of a computer system
Use terminology related to computers and technology appropriately in written and oral communications
Demonstrate proper basic care and maintenance of a computer system
Analyze and solve simple hardware and software problems
Demonstrate a working knowledge of the operating system
Create, modify, store, retrieve, and print files

Standard #2: Students use a variety of technologies to enhance productivity.

Demonstrate appropriate computer input methods (keyboarding, mouse, scanner, digital camera, etc.)
Use common features of word processing, spreadsheet, presentations, and graphics programs
Compose, organize, and edit information using a computer
Proofreading and edit files for accuracy, content, appearance and/or creativity, and for spelling, grammar, and punctuation
Demonstrate skill in basic word processing skills—tables, tabs, graphic placement, mail merge, etc.
Apply formatting, formulas, and function features of spreadsheet software
Use spreadsheet software to design, create, manipulate, store, retrieve, update, etc.
Use presentation and/or multimedia software to produce presentations (design, create, import data/graphics, scanned images/sound, edit, format, sequence)
Use presentation software to deliver presentations
Use the Internet efficiently and effectively for research and electronic communications.
Use features of applications that integrate word processing, spreadsheet, telecommunication, and graphics

Standard #3: Students use a variety of technologies for communication.

Use local area network and worldwide network
Use the Internet efficiently and effectively for research and electronic communications
Prepare web pages using a variety of software programs
Prepare multi-media presentations for online presentations
Participate in a collaborative online project
Demonstrate a basic understanding of audio/video conferencing and distance learning applications

Standard #4: Students use technology responsibly and understand its impact on individuals and society.

Demonstrate safe work habits
Comply with copyright laws regarding the use of technology, including citing references properly
Demonstrate knowledge of acceptable use policies when using the intranet and Internet
Demonstrate a knowledge of common future trends in the use of computers for personal and business use

Standard #5: Students develop the skills, knowledge, and abilities to apply a variety of technologies to conduct research, manage information, and solve problems.

Demonstrate productive work habits (organization)
Use skills for research (Internet, software packages, printed copy, etc.)
Apply task-specific skills to a variety of projects
Comply with copyright laws
Follow the standards for citing references
Prioritize job tasks
Develop effective teamwork skills through group and partner projects
Develop workplace ethics
Develop ability to focus and follow through on projects

Standard #6: Students apply technological abilities and knowledge to construct new personal understanding.

Acquire skills for troubleshooting
Acquire skills for lifelong learning
Develop creative ability
Develop self-discipline

School to Work Objectives:

Students gain foundations skills in Basic Skills (reading, listening, and speaking), Thinking Skills (decision making, problem solving, thinking creatively, and reasoning), and Personal Qualities (responsibility, self-esteem and self-management, sociability, and integrity/honesty.)

Students gain workplace skills in Information (acquire and evaluate information, organize and maintain information/files, interpret information, and use computers to process information), Interpersonal Skills (teaching others, participating as a member of a team, work well with people from culturally diverse backgrounds), Systems (understanding organizational and technological systems), and Technology (select equipment and tools, maintain and troubleshoot equipment, and apply technology to specific tasks).

Technology Integration:

The majority of the instruction is hands-on with the most recent hardware and software available at St. Ignatius High School.

House Bill 528 Integration of Native American Studies:

Students prepare/view multimedia presentations and web pages based on Native American culture and history.

Meeting Diverse Student Needs:

Students with diverse needs—those with unique abilities and/or disabilities—will have differentiated opportunities to achieve competencies and standards, and at rates and in a manner consistent with their needs.