Course Syllabus
Beginning Computer Applications - Microsoft Office 2019/Office 365

Class Times:
AM Courses: Monday, Tuesday 8:30-11:30 AM, Wednesday, Thursday 8:30-12:30 PM
PM Courses: Monday, Tuesday 5:30-8:30 PM, Wednesday, Thursday - 4:30-8:30 PM

Instructor: Ms. Julianne (Julie) Ellis
Email: Julianne.Ellis@sweetwaterschools.org

Phone: (619) 796-7058

Location: Room 113
Format: In Person only

*IET Instructor: Sonia Mahmud

Email: sonia.mahmud@sweetwaterschools.org

(619) 535-9317, Direct (call or text ok)

Location: Room 113A

Welcome!

Computer Applications with Microsoft Office 365 is a rigorous and highly engaging course designed to develop advanced digital literacy alongside critical career readiness competencies. This course challenges students to master the full suite of Microsoft Office 365 applications—Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams—through hands-on, practical instruction that mirrors real-world professional environments.

Beyond technical proficiency, this course integrates essential soft skills and strategic career development, including professional communication, resume and cover letter writing, job search strategies, mock interviews, and personal branding. Our comprehensive, career-focused curriculum empowers students to emerge workforce-ready with a polished portfolio that demonstrates their readiness to employers.

I am committed to facilitating an immersive learning experience that promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication, ensuring students not only learn but apply skills at a high level to succeed in competitive job markets.

Course Description

This entry-level course teaches students to effectively utilize Microsoft Office 2019/Office 365 productivity applications. Students will improve overall computer technology mastery through lectures, hands-on training, group activities, software practice, and assessments. The course emphasizes career readiness, combining technical skills with communication and professional development.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate advanced proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams

• Type at a minimum of 30 words per minute with accuracy

• Create professional business documents, reports, and presentations, effective resumes, cover letters, and elevator pitches

• Conduct strategic job searches and prepare for interviews

• Build a polished digital portfolio showcasing technical and career skills

Course Structure & Expectations

• Begin each class with 15 minutes of keyboarding practice via Typesy.com

• Participate in instructor-led lessons combined with MindTap online modules

• Engage in group projects, presentations, and career readiness activities

• Complete MindTap assignments, which constitute a significant portion of the course grade

• Attend mock interviews and job search workshops for hands-on career preparation

Grading Breakdown

• MindTap assignments and assessments: 40%

• Keyboarding progress and accuracy: 10%

• Career documents (resumes, cover letters): 20%

• Presentations and elevator pitches: 15%

• Participation and mock interviews: 15%

🔹Students must earn at least 80% on assessments and projects to pass.

Technology & Resources

• Students use their district email [studentID#]@sweetwaterschools.net to access Office.com, Teams, MindTap, and Google email

• Required textbooks: Illustrated Microsoft Office 365 & Office 2019 (Introductory & Intermediate) — free online versions available via MindTap; hardcopies optional

• Additional materials: flash drive (1GB+ recommended), OneNote virtual binder for file organization

Classroom Conduct

• Arrive on time and ready for keyboarding practice

• Complete assignments on schedule and actively participate

• Respect classmates and maintain a professional learning environment

• Communicate professionally and seek help when needed
  
  

Accessibility & Support

We foster an inclusive learning environment where diverse perspectives, cultures, languages, ethnicities, and abilities are recognized and valued as strengths. Students with different learning needs or requiring accommodations are encouraged to discuss their needs with the instructor. You may also submit a referral to the Disability and Access Resource Center for additional support.

Integrated Education Training (IET) is available to assist with reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills related to course content.

Final Note

This course prepares students to succeed by combining technology mastery with essential career skills. It is carefully designed to align with industry standards, career readiness frameworks, and educational best practices, ensuring that what you learn is relevant and valuable in today’s workforce. Stay engaged, practice regularly, and take ownership of your learning. Your efforts here will build a professional foundation for a competitive and rewarding career.