Course A/B Introduction to computing
Multi-campus Modular Non-major Curriculum in Computing

Goals

• Students will recognize the major types of word processing programs.

• Students will discriminate the types of problems that are best solved with various types of word processors.

• Students will recognize the major tools that are available in word processor application programs.

• Students will use a text editor to create and modify a simple ASCII text file.

• Students will use a high end word processing program to practice common text formatting problems.

Prerequisite Skills

• Comfort with the keyboard and mouse
• Experience with the STAIR process for solving problems
• Familiarity with principles of data encoding
• Familiarity with differences between Hardware, Software
• Understanding of the attributes of RAM
• Familiarity with operating systems, file names and directories

Contents

• Discussion
  • How word processors work
  • Example
  • Word processors and RAM
• Types of Word Processing Programs
  • Text Editors
  • Integrated Packages
  • High-end Word Processors
  • Desktop Publishing
  • Sign / Banner Programs
  • How do you choose which word processor you use?
• Layout of Word Processors
• Commands available in <b>most</b> word processing programs:
  • File handling commands
  • Editing commands and block manipulation
  • Formatting Commands
    • Formatting a character
    • Formatting paragraphs
• Commands found in <b>more advanced</b> programs
  • High - End Formatting Tools
  • Composition tools
• Laboratory Assignment
  • Part One - The text document.
    • Example
  • Part Two
    • changeme.txt
• Vocabulary / Important Ideas
• Summary
• Review Questions
• Module Effectiveness Assessment / Questions for reviewers