Motherboard Books: Computer Science Pure & Simple

MotherboardBooks.com

I have always loved technical things, expecially computers. Unfortunately, I still don't know much about how they work or the technical terms. So when I was told I was going to get this curriculum I was really excited! We were so blessed to get Computer Science Pure and Simple book 1 and book 2, and we also got MicroWorlds EX software (which is needed for this curriculum). This course is geared for 5th grade and up.

I absolutely love this curriculum. It is very well-laid out for the student. Actually, this is perfect for anyone who wants to learn about computer science. The lessons are not childish at all, yet they are not over your head (I'm talking over the parent's heads because we all know that kids these days know so much more than we do when it comes to computers). So I do the lessons ahead of the kids, not only so I can keep abreast of what they are learning, but because I want to learn it too.

In Book 1, they offer a comprehensive intro to HTML, how to use notepad and the other windows accessories software already on your computer. It also covers more about word processors, programming drawings, animations and games using LOGO language (which is found on the software sold with the curriculum). You will learn how to format a newsletter and how to work with a spreadsheet.

Here's a link to see a sample page from book 1: http://www.motherboardbooks.com/pagehtml.pdf

Book 2, builds on book 1 and provides more work on programming using LOGO language, spreadsheets, and how to make a multi-page website. Your child can also create their own games.

Here's a link to see a sample page from book 2: http://www.motherboardbooks.com/2pagespreadsheet.pdf

Each of the above mentioned books covers one year of computer science. You can purchase them seperately or as a set. Book 1 costs $29.99, Book 2 costs $32.99, and the set costs $161.98. Motherboard also offers computer courses for younger kids; LOGO Adventures(8-12yo), Let's Make a Webpage(8-12yo) and Let's Make a Webpage jr (for 7-9yo).

Phyllis Wheeler is the creator of this curriculum, she is a mechanical engineer who has taken a number of programming courses throughout the years. She created this curriculum so she could teach her children computer skills. With this curriculum she not only taught her children but taught at her co-op as well. I am very thankful that she decided to share this curriculum with the homeschooling world. Check it out for yourself: http://www.motherboardbooks.com/index.htm