Joseph Temple Henley Middle School
5880 Rockfish Gap Turnpike
Crozet, Virginia 22932
(434) 823-9343
Lisa Boyce, Mrs. Boyce
Computer Solutions, 7th Grade
Hello Parents,
I am your child’s Computer Solutions teacher, Mrs. Boyce. Please read over the course syllabus and complete the short form at the end. Please know that I welcome your mentorship and volunteerism in any of our projects, and if you have any questions or comments, don’t hesitate to contact me at the above listed email address!
I. Course Description
Computer Solutions is a semester long elective course in which your student will enhance his or her current computer skills and create a foundation of knowledge of numerous programs. We will start by revisiting school log on and appropriate use knowledge and keyboarding to ensure those skills are at an appropriate level. We will then move to Internet safety and effective searching methods, online communication and “cloud” programs such as Skype, Dropbox, Google Drive, etc.
Software applications generally covered:
· Word Processing: Microsoft Word and Google Docs
· Spreadsheets: Microsoft Excel and Google Spreadsheets
· Presentations: Microsoft Power Point and Google Slides
· Research/Databases: Students will have a stronger background in using Henley’s Media Center’s multiple sources of research.
· Photo Manipulation/Vector: Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator
· Coding: Arduino, Sketch, TurleArt, possible robotics software
· Website Development: Google Sites
· Portfolio: Acrobat Portfolio options
Share Day: Throughout the course students will participate in a “share” day every other Friday. During this class students will be able to present their best software skill of the current two-week time period, and provide group tutoring to those who need extra assistance. This is a fun activity, and all students will need peer tutoring at one time or another during the course.
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Back Portion To Be Signed,
Removed and Given To Mrs. Boyce
II. Material Requirements
Students will have a few material expenses throughout the course, but these will be minimal and advance notice will be given. Initially, students have an option for the two-pocket fastener folder needed for class. I am able to loan them a folder that will be kept in class for any non-electronic handouts and notes during class time. These folders will have a label for their name, but should not be decorated in any way. Students that like to doodle or draw may benefit from providing their own folder or purchasing the folder from the class for $1.00. Students will need to be prepared for each class with a writing utensil, lined paper, their laptop (7th), headphones or “earbuds”, and a flash drive. They may want to purchase an inexpensive computer mouse. If they keep all of their things together, they have a greater chance of earning up to100% on any quizzes given throughout the semester.
III. Communication: Students should prepare to check their ACPS email and the Blackboard (Bb) landing page on a daily basis, as this will be how I communicate with them. Homework will be listed on our Blackboard (Bb) landing page, and students will be asked to review/remark upon some of the unit materials prior to coming to class. This will be done via the Discussion “tab” or through uploading assignments to their Google Drive Assignment folder. I will model these procedures in class.
Sharing successes: I love to share photos of our activities with parents and students! Your permission for photographs on the technology use form is appreciated.
IV. Grading Policies and Procedures
Henley’s grading scale, explained in the student agenda, will be followed for this course.
Grading
Participation & Behavior – worth 5 points each class period
Assignments – worth 5 points
Classwork – worth 10 points
Quizzes – worth 10-25 points
Projects & Papers – worth 40 points
Extra Credit: There will be a few extra credit opportunities announced throughout the semester.
Points will be taken off for each class period an assignment is late. Late work will be accepted at full credit with an excused absence. Missed quizzes, etc, will need to be made up during STING and by appointment.
Please feel free to contact me with any questions at
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I have read the Computer Solutions Syllabus with my student and we understand the requirements of the class.
Student’s Printed Name: __________________________________________
Student’s Signature: _____________________________________________
Parent’s Signature: ______________________________________________
Parent’s E-mail address: ______________________________________________
Student’s E-mail address: ______________________________________________
Best number to contact parents during the day: __________________________