Weeks 1-2 :: Intro to Computer Elective

v    Objectives

Students will know classroom expectations and procedures.  Students will be able to negotiate the environment of their local computer and the remote server.  Students will be able to use command keys to accomplish routine tasks. Students will also be able to use the CaptureMe application that takes screen shots . . . this will be foundational for the Student Portfolio.

v    Standards

Classroom expectations and procedures will be clarified for all students.  Students will practice logging into the local computer and the school server.  Students will create simple documents, learn the basics of ubiquitous toolbars, and save and open from distinct locations. 

v    Anticipatory Set

When students come in for the first time, they will see a series of slideshows that past students have created.  These will be played to upbeat music in Quicktime format in a repeating slideshow that will be paused when the class is ready for more instructions.

v    Teaching

a.     Input

Teacher presents practical basics in introduction to the computers and the school’s network.  No theory (bytes, hertz, communications protocols, formats, etc.) right at first. 

b.     Modeling

Teacher walks students through basic steps of managing data, demonstrating different ways of accomplishing the same task (copy/paste, for example).  Students follow on their computers.

c.     Check For Understanding

Students periodically check their neighbors’ screens and indicate completion of the steps by raising hands if the neighbors are/aren’t at the right place.  These first weeks of class are very lock-step and we do things in unison.

v    Guided Practice/Monitoring

Students will create folders and create the PowerPoint file that will become their Student Portfolio.

v    Closure

Same slideshow as the Anticipatory Set, only now with commentary from the teacher about what students will be creating as the class moves forward.  Students are ready to begin creating, and the first unit is very creative.

v    Independent Practice

Students create file folder structure in their server space to hold class projects, music, pictures, temporary files, etc.  They may also begin playing with PowerPoint to develop the framework for their Student Portfolio.