The 6th grade classes are concentrating on proper typing procedures and also on learning about how computers work. They have complete several worksheets on computer processes from the Kid's Caboose site http://parenting.kaboose.com/education-and-learning/learning-resources/brain-computer-lesson.html 
 
They are now watching a video about how computers work and writing definitions of computer terms. There will be a test some time next week on these terms. 

Posted by: susanclark

Seventh graders have started working with Microsoft Word word processing software. They are learning how to format colors, sizes, different fonts, and how to easily & quickly make corrections. 
 
If you do not have the Microsoft Office suite at home, you can download a TOTALLY FREE suite called Open Office on your computer. It is almost identical to Microsoft Office & includes a spreadsheet program (like Excel), a word processing program (like Word), a presentation program (like PowerPoint) and other stuff. 
 
You can go to http://www.openoffice.org/ to download it. (You'll need a high-speed connection - it's a large file.) The site even includes free tutorials for learning more about the products. 

Posted by: susanclark

The 8th grade classes have started off by registering for the Georgia Career Information System. This website is highly informative and useful for guiding students in career choices. It includes various types of career quizzes and tests to help direct students towards a career that fits their personalities and educational aspirations. 
 
Students can access the site any time they like, even at home. Just go to http://www.gcic.peachnet.edu/  
 
Parents interested in changing jobs or pursuing higher education may also be interested in the site.  

Posted by: susanclark

My 2nd semester is definitely off to a rough start - I spent last Tuesday & Wednesday in the hospital with a myriad of stomach issues and was forced to miss the first day back. Thanks to the snow, though, I was able to rest Thursday & Friday without worrying about class activities. 
 
All of the classes started off watching a video about the International Space Station and all the computer power that it takes to run it. Analyzing data, operating a robotic arm, guidance & basic life support are all controlled by computers on board the ISS. 
 
Each class will begin with typing. Typing, or keyboarding skills, are VITALLY important. Students who do not have a good foundation in keyboarding will be very limited in what they can do in higher grades or even in a job. In class, students must use keyboard covers which hide the letters to force them to memorize the position of the keys. 
 
Speaking of keys, I require the students to use hand sanitizer when entering the classroom every day. This way, they keys stay relatively germ-free. I do clean them with anti-bacterial cleaner some but the hand sanitizer really helps cut down on germ sharing. If you would be so kind as to donate a bottle of hand sanitizer, that would be fantastic. Next time you're at a store, pick up a bottle, please. Thanks! 

Posted by: susanclark