Introduction to Computers is designed to teach the student to use technology as a tool to access information, analyze/solve problems, and communicate ideas. It is the first course of the computer curriculum. As such, it lays the foundation for students’ technology proficiency and prepares them for the use of computers in high school. Introduction to Computers also begins students’ preparation for collegiate level computer science studies and/or entry level work in the computer industry. The goals of this course are:

• to prepare students in the basic use of computers.
• to prepare students to be successful using technology in school and in the workplace.
• to prepare students to pass the computer proficiency examinations required by the school district for graduation

Please note, however, that passing this course does not by itself meet the computer proficiency graduation requirement; this course serves as preparation for it. The school district’s computer proficiency requirements are fully described in a separate document, but include the following four proficiencies:

1. Keyboarding: Typing at 25 words per minute with not more than three errors
   In this course, several weeks will be allocated for building and improving this skill through direct instruction, drills, exercises, practice, and timed typing. Success in learning this skill requires focus and attention, and needs to be mastered in a timely manner.
2. Word processing software: Preparation of a document with not more than two errors
   Microsoft Word is the word processing software students will learn in order to write, format, and edit documents. Assignments are specifically for preparing students for the word processing portion of the district’s computer proficiency examination.
3. Computer terminology: A multiple-choice exam for which a passing score of 70% is required
   The first half of the semester will focus on increasing students’ knowledge of computer terminology and technology. Several vocabulary quizzes will be given to prepare students for the district’s examination. Since the intenet is such an important part of current computer technology, we will spend some class time exploring the internet to understand how it works and to obtain information from it.
4. Presentation software: A presentation using PowerPoint. This powerful software tool will help you in your future school work and in your career. Your final project (to be described later) will require you to use PowerPoint. The presentation of your final project will be made orally using PowerPoint, before the entire class near the end of the semester. This will provide an opportunity to earn a speaking certificate.
   

Grading for this course is determined by how well you complete th assignments and the required district outcomes. The following genera expectations apply to assignments for this course:

The equipment and furniture in the classroom is to be treated with care at all times. All litter must be placed in wastebaskets or recycling bins and the room must be in good order at the end of every class. No food or beverages other than bottled water are allowed.