CS101 – Living with Computers

ACTIVITIES & QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

Chapter 5 (Classes 11-13):

• Answer Student’s Questions
• Demo what’s on the CD (Hands-on introduction to word processing, spreadsheets and graphics software; dynamic computer art and animation examples)
• Demo what’s on the website
• Demo Word, Excel (spreadsheet with chart), PowerPoint, Paintshop Pro (customize image – crop, reduce # of colors)
• Questions for discussion:
• Describe how computers can make the writing process more efficient, more effective, and more fun.
• Explain how desktop publishing technology has revolutionized the process of publishing for individuals and institutions alike.
• Describe the basic functions and applications of spreadsheet programs on personal computers.
• Describe other software tools for processing numbers and symbols on personal computers, workstations, and mainframes.
• Describe several ways that computers are used to create multimedia materials in the arts, entertainment, education, and business.
• Explain what a database is and what it can be used for.
• Explain how databases threaten our privacy.
• Projects
• Demonstrate spell checker on word processor, spreadsheet, presentation software: Paleemorfism, hipokondriak, fonetikly.
• Have students bring samples of good and poor examples of style and formatting in published documents (student newspapers, sales flyers, apartment guides, newsletters, junk mail, web pages).
• Have each group of students look at game packaging to determine what hardware is required for use and what video and audio effects are used in the game.
• Have each group of students design a database (video rental stores, student records, sporting goods store, etc.) They need to identify the tables, records, and fields for a simple relational database. Have each group present their design to the class.
• Demonstrate online phone directories.
• Chapter 5 Quiz: 3-5 short questions from the chapter review and 2-4 definitions (include questions that require students to match applications with software)
• Chapter 5 Assignment: Page151 – Project 6 (this will require the use of the Internet)
• Chapter e-journal on computer applications
• Student should find material from chapter (on computer application software) in newspapers, magazines, or online
• Student should discuss the most difficult concept for them in this chapter
• Student should list any terms they do not understand