BEGINNING OF THE CLASS INTRO

BEGINNING OF THE CLASS INTRO

Last Updated:  10/10/17

Classroom Etiquette  

·      What to call me: Mr. Griffith, Griff, Mr. G, Maestro, or Coach – NOT “Mr. Griff”

·      Cell phones / MP3 Players:  Not loud enough for others to hear and not to be used during instruction

·      Swearing, Hateful, or Hurtful Comments will not be tolerated – even if you were “only kidding”.

o   Racism or Hate Speech:  There is a “zero tolerance” policy in my classroom.

·      Spitting – Do it OUTSIDE in a trash can or planter box -- not in my class and not on the sidewalk.

·      Food & Drinks / Gum:  Do not bring food or drinks into the lab.   (Do NOT throw away in the lab.)

·      Plagiarism: Do not copy someone else’s work or submit a project as your own if you didn’t create it.

·      Downloading / Installing Software, Changing Wallpapers & Settings, etc. [It’s not your computer.]

·      Games are not for class time unless you’re completely caught up – and that’s not likely.

·      Late Work: I will only accept late work within two weeks of the due date [with a grade penalty]

·      Insight: Monitoring student computers, limiting software and web sites, blanking screens, etc.

·      Questions are awesome – but make them relevant to the topic being discussed (and raise your hand)

o   Interrupting a Lesson: You have a right to learn and I have a right to teach

·      Proxies, Bypass Filters, Hacking, Plagiarism

·      Respect: The priority of my classroom.  If you are an ass, you will not be here for long.

·      Safe Place / No Bullying: See “Respect”

·      Suggestion:  If students are missing __ assignments they are warned.

o   If it continues, then I refer them to the counselor with recommendation for removal

What to Bring / Get

·      Syllabus: 2 Part – 1 for your binder and 1 you and your parent/guardian will sign (rules, release, etc.)

·      Power School Account: Get username and password [Can I get these to pass out?]

·      USB / Flash Drive – 2GB+ (Careful of Viruses!) for Fonts, Textures, Brushes, Actions, Sounds, Graphics, etc.

o   I recommend restarting the computer before you use it [especially with a USB drive]

·      Binder / Notebook to save printed projects, instructions & Handouts (you can share with another class)

o   I expect you to take notes on specific techniques/functions as we cover them

·      10 Quality Sheet Protectors (for résumé, cover letters, etc.)

·      Headphones (if you want sound or music) – I have a few loaners for special projects… not games.

·      Digital Still or Video Camera [for some projects] – I have some loaners that you can check out.

·      Class décor donations (not required but it helps make the classroom yours) / Leave others’ stuff alone

·      Begin collecting information, certificates, letters, etc. for brag sheets.

·      Gmail & Blogger Accounts (and DeviantArt if you’re in Projects)

·      Completed Questionnaire from Griff:  Do you have a computer at home?  Do you have Internet?  Etc.

Extra Credit Possibilities

·      Bring in a damaged family photo to scan as an example.  [It will be returned immediately after scanning]

·      Photographing Games, Plays and Events:

·      Video Taping Games, Plays and Events:

·      Adding to the décor of “The Nerd Cave”

Teacher Issues

·      What do I do about students in two classes?

PROJECTS IN COMPUTERS:	Last Updated:  10/10/17

GETTING STARTED

The Basics

·         History of Computing / Computer Time Line

·         How a Computer Works: Lecture / Discussion / Props

·         Electronics & Surge Protection

o   Main > Transformer > Circuit Breaker > Plugs

·         Keyboard Shortcuts

·         Windows Applications

·         Folder / File Hierarchy and Organization

·         Customizing Computer Settings

·         Fixing Your Own Computer

o   Antivirus and Problem Solving

§  Virus warnings (legitimate or scams)

Typing / Keyboarding

·         MicroType Pro: One Lesson Per Day (1, R1, 2, … 19)  -- Make sure we can save scores.

o   Typing Certificates

Resource Drive:

·         Fonts

·         Photoshop:

o   Brushes: Scratches, Grunge, Torn Paper, Smoke, Cracks, Effects

o   Actions

o   Templates

o   Pieces: Splatter, Frames,

·         Sound Effects

·         Music Loops

·         Backdrops

·         Textures

·         3D Models

General Ideas

·         Weekly Challenge:  Creative prompt (i.e. sad city, summer scene) and students use any program to create

·         Online Voting:  Students can upload / vote on creations and we can have a “winner”

·         Making Money:  How different topics relate to careers and/or can help someone earn money

·         Advanced Projects:  Every 3 weeks choose a project and/or program to focus on

·         Some Outside Project:

·         Contact a business about doing a project for them and have the business judge the winner.

·         Marketing, Advertising, and Selling

o   Subliminal Advertising

·         Project Log: Image, Sound, and Font Sources; Creation Date; Sources of Inspiration; Tutorial/Instructions

THE INTERNET

Internet / Google Search Strategies

·         Internet Safety, Etiquette, and Responsibility

·         The Class Web Site (GriffsClass), KHS web site (MyKelseyville), and Google

·         The School Web Site (MyKelseyville) - News, Announcements, Daily Bulletin, Schedule, Class Pages, etc.

·         Boolean Search Strategies: Quotes, – , filetype, site, date, etc.

o   Robert Griffith vs. “Robert Griffith” vs. “Robert Griffith” – football –nfl

·         Web: More Search Tools (date, wonder wheel, timeline, news)

·         Using Google Images (file size, face, royalty free, color, etc.)

·         Saving Files (pictures, documents, etc.) from the Internet to your Thawspace

iGoogle

·         Registering for Google (save Username and Password!)

·         Setting Up an iGoogle Page and Add-ons

o   Translator

o   Calendar

§  Add a list of events

§  1^st Day / 2^nd Day Calendar Setup?

§  Can also Embed on Blogger

Gmail

·         We will use these email addresses to sign up for other accounts and services (you will need these)

o   Sign up for a Gmail account from www.gmail.com (write down your username and password!)

o   Basic Email Instructions (Email me with the subject “KHS Period _”)

o   Adding Filters

Google Docs

·         Save a copy of the class Syllabus to your desktop

·         Log in to your Google Docs (Documents) page and create a New Folder for this class

·         Upload the class syllabus to your Documents (into the new folder)

·         Create folders for your other classes

Blogger

·         Log in with your Gmail account name and password

·         Choose a template, view your blog, and write down your blogger address (http://___.blogspot.com)

·         Go to Settings > Layout > and view other templates available now

·         Downloading, extracting, and applying external templates

·         Daily / Weekly Blog: A second blog for personal responses

·         Adding Videos / Video Clips

Browsers

·         Internet Explorer, Safari, Firefox, Chrome

PROJECTS IN COMPUTERS: OFFICE APPLICATIONS

Last Updated:  06/01/13

Last Updated:  6/17/10

Word Processing

·         Google Docs

o   If you work on something at home & want to print at school, this might be the way to go.

·         Microsoft Word

·         Formatting, layout, spell check, grammar check, etc.

·         Selecting Text: Click & Drag, Double-Click, CTRL+Click, Triple Click, Right-Click

·         Typing Special Characters *

·         Templates

·         Block Letters

·         Letter to My Future Self (End of the Year)

o   End of the Year: Letter to Myself in 10 Years [keep in yearbook?]

o   Letter to My Grandchildren

·         Letter to a Leader

·         Cover Letters *

·         Résumé

·         Essay

o   Idea Mapping

o   Footnoting

o   Bibliography

·         Research Paper (with Title, Works Cited, etc.)

o   Internet Research: Appropriate Use, Safety, Evaluating Sources

o   Teen Health

·         Story / Script:

·         News Article:

·         Product Review:

·         Adding tables, charts, Word Art, etc.

Spreadsheets

·         Spreadsheet Basics

·         Google Docs

·         Microsoft Excel

·         Basic formulas

·         Colors, Formatting, Labels, etc.

·         Statistical Analysis: Sports, rainfall, etc.

·         Graphs

·         Templates

·         Creating Forms

Database

·         Flat File Database: From Wizard

·         Intro to Relational Databases: Tables and Linking, Queries and Forms

·         Address Book

·         Mail Merge

·         Occupations

Presentation Software

·         Google Docs

·         Microsoft PowerPoint

·         Templates

·         Create Your Own Template

·         Animated Text / Pictures and Transitions

·         Adding Excel, Graphs, and Video Clips

·         Do’s & Don’ts of Presentations: Eye Contact, Printed Notes, etc.

·         All About Me:  Students' hobbies, interests, etc.

·         My Favorite Poem: Animate song lyrics or poem.

·         Favorite Subject: Favorite actor, actress, musician, politician, animal, teacher, video game, etc.

·         Quick Tutorial: Make a Quick Tutorial (or a "Two Minute Tutorial”) about any skill you possess.

Desktop Publishing

·         Microsoft Publisher

·         Newsletter

PROJECTS IN COMPUTERS: PHOTOGRAPHY AND GRAPHIC DESIGN

Last Updated:  06/01/13

Last Updated:  6/17/10

Digital Photography  (see CTE Online Digital Photography Model)

·         Digital Camera Basics (optical zoom, resolution, etc.)

·         Composition: Rule of Thirds

·         Landscape

·         Portrait

·         Macro

·         Action

·         Where to Get Printed

·         Release Forms

Web Based Photo Editing / Manipulation / Stock Images

(find “10 Online Graphic Editors” from Google+, Facebook or Email)

·         Web Based Photo Editing

o   http://www.pixlr.com  (similar to Photoshop)

o   http://fotoflexer.com

o   http://www.photoshop.com

o   http://www.picmonkey.com

o   http://www.picnik.com

o   http://www.splashup.com

o   http://www.snipshot.com

o   http://www.pixenate.com

o   http://www.picture2life.com

o   http:// a.viary.com

·         Stock Images: (http://www.photoxpress.com)

·         Free Software: The Gimp (http://www.gimp.org)

Photoshop: Graphic Design, Photo Manipulation, Product Design, etc.

·         Ethics and History of Photo Manipulation

·         Basic Art Tools: Brushes, Filters, Layer Styles, Gradients, Text Tool (& Settings)

·         Veggie Head: Create a vegetable head using only the available vegetable pieces.

·         Text Effects: Convert text into special effects (i.e. Star Wars) using layer styles.

·         License Plate: Create a realistic license plate using beveled and embossed letters/numbers.

·         Photoshop Greeting Card:  Foldable 1-sheet card with Text & Titles

·         Clock & Keyboard:

·         Collage: Create a collage of related photo's for any subject (favorite actor/sports team/etc.).

·         Gondola Tutorial:

·         Blog Header: Create a title graphic for your Blogger home page.

·         Signature Block: A signature for a forum post / account

·         Basic Retouch Tips: Whiten teeth, remove blemishes, brighten eyes, adjust contrast, fix shines, etc.

·         Digital Makeover: Add makeup to an image (eye liner, cheeks, hair color, etc.)

·         Photo Repair: Get a damaged photo from a parent, grandparent, etc., scan it, and repair.

·         Colorize I: Layer with Eraser

·         Colorize II: Spray-on Color

·         Colorize III: Replace Color

·         Photoshop Actions:

·         Create a Taggable: Create a tag-me image for MySpace or Facebook.

·         Trace Art: Using any image as a base, trace the image onto a new layer, add color, and delete original.

·         Color Book: Take a line art image (thousands available) and color it.

·         Game Board: Create or customize a game board (i.e. Monopoly).

·         Time Change: Use filters, lighting effects, etc. to change a photo from day to night, dusk, etc.

·         Wallpaper: Make a wallpaper image for your desktop (i.e. 640x480, 800x600, 1024x768).

·         Background Tile: Create a seamless repeating pattern (offset, not simply tiled) for use as a background.

·         Warhol: Create a 4x4 grid, insert the same picture into all four corners and modify each differently.

·         Text Replacement: Replace text from an existing photo (sign, billboard, etc.) with your own.

·         Fool the Eye: Combine (composite) two or more images into one seemingly real new image.

·         Magazine Cover: Make an appropriate "famous" magazine cover w/correct size, text, logo, bar code, etc.

·         CD Cover: Create a "jewel case" insert for a music CD.

·         3D Anaglyph: Take two photo’s and convert them to 3D Anaglyph using Channels.

·         Movie Poster: Create a poster for a "pseudo-movie".  Include actors, rating, production team, etc.

·         Band Poster: Create a poster for your favorite band.

·         Forrest Gump: Put yourself into a famous photograph as cleanly and undetectably as possible.

·         Picture Sandwich: Put an animal, building, or object between a foreground and background image.

·         Reflections: Add an item and its’ reflection in water, glass, or sunglasses.

·         Copy a Masterpiece: Choose a famous painter and reproduce one of their famous pieces.

·         "Ad" Nauseum: Recreate (improve) an advertisement from a local print ad (newspaper, flier, etc.).

·         LED / Neon Sign: Use layer styles to create a realistic electronic sign.

·         Jack O’Lantern: Use layer styles to create a realistic Jack O’Lantern.

·         Pumpkin Stencil: Use Stamp Filter to create a pumpkin carving stencil (then add it to your Jack O’Lantern)

·         Pop Art: Turn a photo into a graphic “pop art” image.

·         Logo: Create a logo for your computer creations (your own "company logo") in 3 colors or less.

·         Banner Set: Create a set of 3 banners (top bar, small & large rectangle) for any real or fake web page.

·         Self Portrait: Use a photo of yourself and modify/improve the image to your liking.

·         Cereal Box Game: A “back of the box” design which you could later use on a package design.

·         Package Dieline: Design a package for a "new" product.  Include necessary text, logo's, UPC, etc.

·         Campaign Poster: Create a poster for a real or fictitious candidate in the style of other campaign posters.

·         Anti-Tobacco Poster:  Create a poster with royalty-free art and include fact(s) about hazards

·         Animated GIF: Create a series of images to be converted to an animated GIF (keep it under 100k).

·         Web Buttons: Create a set of web buttons (i.e. email, home, gallery, etc.) each under 10k.

·         Dust Jacket: Create a dust-jacket for a non-existing book by your favorite author (+ "About the Author").

·         Comic Strip: Create a comic strip (i.e. about your life, your school, etc.).

·         School Book Cover: Make a cover to fit one of your school books, including title and appropriate images.

·         Face-Off: Replace a celebrities face with your own.

·         Frankenstein: Composite pieces of different faces (eyes, mouth, nose, etc.) into one seamless new face.

·         Community Improvement: Take a photo of local area and improve it (i.e. add a fountain, remove graffiti).

·         Postage Stamps: Create a set of postage stamps that you would like to see offered by the USPS.

·         Comic Book Cover: Design a comic book cover for any comic book character (or an original).  Use filters?

·         Break-Out Image: Use a provided frame and break an object out of the frame.

·         Photo / Scrapbook Album Page: Combine pictures and use embellishments to enhance the page.

·         Desktop Break-Through: Something coming out of a screen-shot of the Desktop

·         Motivational (or De-Motivational) Poster:

·         Design Second Life products:

·         Chimera:  Merge two [or more] animals into a single beast.

·         Movie Poster Remix: Change a famous movie poster by replacing the actors/actresses (i.e. Marilyn as Leia)

·         Plant-imals: Merge animals and plants into a single “creature” (i.e. dande-lion)

·         Celebrity Super Hero: Make a celebrity into a super hero.

·         Caricature: Use the Liquify tool to create a caricature of someone.

·         Paper Doll: Create a paper doll and several pieces of clothing/accessories on a white background.

·         Spot the Difference:  Put two side-by-side pictures together

Adobe Illustrator: Using Adobe Illustrator to create 2D vector art for commercial purposes.

·         Draw a Picture: Use the various tools / techniques (lines, boxes, fills, line styles, etc.)

·         Game Board: Create an original game board.

Multimedia / Adobe Flash: Using Flash to create graphics, animations, interfaces, etc.

·         Draw a Picture: Use the various tools / techniques (lines, boxes, fills, pulls, line styles, etc.)

·         Trace-a-Logo:  Trace your logo from Photoshop into a vector format.

·         Trace-a-Photo: Trace a photo (simply) onto a new layer, delete photo layer, colorize.

·         Trace-Your-Face: Self portrait done in traced Flash.

·         Create Yourself as a Cartoon

·         Trace Bitmap: Use Modify > Trace Bitmap

·         Frame-by-Frame Animation: Old-School Animation Technique – the “Bouncing Ball”

·         Adding Sound to Specific Frames:  Add a sound effect when the ball hits

·         Shape Tween: Draw a series of simple objects (apple, ball, etc.) several frames apart and shape tween.

·         Shape Tween 2: Shape Tween different words or phrases.

·         Shape Tween 3: Shape Tween a Story – Each “scene” tweens into the next.

·         3D Button: Create a mock 3D button using gradient fills.

·         Buttons: Create several animated buttons, each operating differently when you mouse over / click them.

·         Motion Tween: Create a new movie clip (or use your button), convert it to a symbol, then move it.

·         Pointless Game: Use a moving button as a target to shoot, smack, catch, or whatever as a simple game.

·         Invisible Button: Place an image on your desktop to be used as an invisible button.

·         Animated Gif Clip: Import an animated GIF into a new movie clip.

·         Alpha Fades: 

·         Motion Guide: Butterfly, bee, airplane, car, etc. following a bath.

·         Spotlight Mask:

·         Text Mask (with moving background)

·         Custom Mouse Pointer:

·         3D Button Interface: Buttons open a single window with a different image.

·         Eyes that Follow the Mouse:

·         Kids Program: Simple scene and animate various objects when clicked (i.e. a farm scene with animals).

·         Advertisement: Create a web advertisement for a product or service.

·         Educational Animation: An animation to help explain a concept (mitosis, circulation, water cycle, etc.)

·         Music Off/On Button:

·         Logo Splash: Short animation using your previously designed "company logo" for use in your movies.

·         "Loading" Graphic: Create an animated loading graphic for use in your larger Flash movies.

·         Storybook: Write and illustrate (and narrate?) an appropriate children’s story or virtual pop-up book.

·         Character Book: Use pictures of friends to create a storybook.

·         Tutorial: Create a book that teaches someone step-by-step instructions for something interesting.

·         Opening Credits: Create the opening credits for a fictitious movie or TV show.

·         Curriculum Resource: Animate something for a class (i.e. the water table, mitosis, etc.).

·         Multimedia Greeting Card: A greeting card where you have to click to open the rest of the card.

·         Advertisement / Commercial: An ad for a fictitious product or service.

·         Opening Credits:

·         End Credits:

·         Screen Saver: Design a "Screen Saver" to be used later with the "Flash to Screen Saver" program.

·         Movie Shell: Create a movie with a loading graphic, pointer, and labels)

·         Web Interface: Create a flash interface for a web page, then publish it and test it in a browser.

·         Portfolio: Create a multimedia portfolio of your best work (i.e. Photoshop, etc.). 

·         Movie Scenes: Recreate a famous movie scene in Flash (use actual audio clips if available) -- cheesy is ok.

·         Screen Saver:

·         Paper Doll:

·         Insert a Video Clip:

·         Speech or Sound Clip Animation: Create an animation around a speech or sound clip.

·         Dynamic Text Scripting I: Magic Multiplier

·         Dynamic Text Scripting II: Basic Password Protection

·         Dynamic Text Scripting III: Digital Clock or Date Display

·         Scripting I: Target Practice with Scoring

·         Scripting II: Random Number Generator [Dice?]

·         Game:  Create a Flash Game and post it online

·         Educational Animation: An animation that could be showcased in a teachers lesson

PROJECTS IN COMPUTERS: WEB PAGE DESIGN

Last Updated:  06/01/13

Last Updated:  6/17/10

Web Page Design (see Web Page Design Model on CTE Online)

Create various types of web pages using HTML and WYSIWYG editors

·         Google Sites:

·         First HTML Page:

·         Home Page: Create a home page of your favorite links, info about yourself, links (i.e. to portfolio), etc.

·         Subject Page: Create a web page on any subject (actor, movie, singer, video game, etc.).

·         School Resource Page: A page on a school-related subject (mitosis, Civil War soldier life, etc.)

·         Begin Web Portfolio: Create a page showcasing your Photoshop, web design, pottery, poetry, etc.

·         Adopt-A-Teacher: Select one teacher (not already selected) and build a web page using a template.

·         Adopt-A-School Page: You will create/maintain a page for the school (a class, department, sport, etc.).

·         Curriculum Resource: ANY specific subject (i.e. Vietnam War, Romeo & Juliet, Jazz) with content & links.

·         30 Second Tutorial: Create a page which will help someone else learn a computer skill or trick you know.

·         Teen Issue: A resource page with content, help numbers, etc. about a teen issue (i.e. drugs, suicide, AIDS).

·         Business Page: Create a page for a fictitious business using graphics, tables, links, & a professional look.

·         Real Business Page: Create a page for a local business using graphics, tables, links, & a professional look.

·         Web Adventure: Create a web-based adventure game w/graphics & Text (Choose Your Own Adventure).

·         Virtual School Tour: Create a click & go web page map and tour of our school with pics and maybe video.

·         Someone I Look Up To: Make a page about someone you look up to and why.  Famous, family, or friend.

·         Family Page: Web page with history, stories, family tree, recipes, pictures, etc.

·         Local History: A page tracing the history of something/someone in the community w/info, pics, etc.

·         Build-A-Band: An "official" band page for a fictitious band.  Include concert dates, photo's, etc.

·         Exercise Guide: A web page with photo-diagrams of how to do certain exercises, stretches, etc.

PROJECTS IN COMPUTERS: 3D GRAPHICS AND 3D ANIMATION

Last Updated:  06/01/13

Last Updated:  6/17/10

3D Graphics (Bryce, Rhino, Sculptris, Blender, & Daz): 3D models, environments, textures, characters, etc.

·         Bryce: Using shapes, mountains and textures; navigating; composition: Remember the Rule of Thirds

·         Bryce: Ocean / Island

·         Bryce: Alien Landscape [See Planetary Traveler]

·         Bryce: Lake or Pond

·         Bryce: River Valley

·         Bryce: Boolean Difference

·         Bryce: Cave or Dungeon

·         Bryce: Using External Textures (i.e. Photoshop images)

·         Bryce: Winter

·         Bryce: Forest

·         Bryce: City

·         Bryce: Desert

·         Bryce: 3D Logo

·         Bryce: Rounded Objects (Soft Brush in Terrain Editor)

·         Bryce: Object (i.e. Plaque, Tombstone, or Monument)

·         Bryce: Sword

·         Bryce: Outer Space

·         Bryce: Under Water

·         Bryce: Importing 3D Models (from the Internet and our 3D Library)

·         Bryce: Waterfall

·         Bryce: Natural Objects (i.e. horn or cornucopia)

·         Bryce: Animated Textures

·         Bryce: Animation 1 – Moving objects

·         Bryce: Animation 2 – Camera follows moving objects (Camera Perspective)

·         Bryce: Animation 3 – Camera flies around a scene (Camera Perspective)

·         Bryce: Animated Water

·         Sculptris: Sea Creature (add to Under Water Scene in Bryce)

·         Sculptris: Pet

·         Sculptris: Kids Toy

·         Sculptris: Head & Face

·         Sculptris: Bust

·         Sculptris: Body

·         Sculptris: Modify a Pre-Made Creature/Body and add to a Bryce Scene

·         Rhino: Rhino basics (navigating, solids, using viewports, stacking shapes, textures, bump maps, etc.)

·         Rhino: Castle

·         Rhino: Texturing, Transparency, Bumpmaps, and Environment (reflection)

·         Rhino: A Room Corner (Adjoining walls, floor with texture, and simple lighting)

·         Rhino: Goblet or Vase

·         Rhino: Funky Coffee Table

·         Rhino: Text Model (i.e. your name)

·         Rhino: Tombstone / Monument

·         Rhino: Checker Board

·         Rhino: Chess Pieces

·         Rhino: Flashlight

·         Rhino: Wooden Box

·         Rhino: Wooden Pull Toy

·         Rhino: Inlaid Table with Carved Legs

·         Rhino: Curtain (transparency with lace texture)

·         Rhino: Table Cloth (transparency with lace texture)

·         Rhino: Rubber Duck

·         Rhino: Chrome Objects

·         Rhino: Box Model Spaceship / Airship

·         Rhino: Box Model Land Vehicle

·         Rhino: Box Model Underwater Vessel

·         Rhino: Kleenex Box (using actual measurements)

·         Rhino: 3D Head

·         Rhino: Create a Ring

·         Rhino: Create or redesign a new appliance, product, tool, etc.

·         Rhino: Create Your Room in 3D

·         Rhino: House Structure (floors, walls, windows, doors, etc.)

·         Rhino: Create items for your house and/or room.

·         Rhino: Create a Neon Sign using curves and pipe commands

·         Rhino: Draw an object and “build it” in Rhino

·         Rhino: Dream Piece of Furniture

·         Rhino: Create a Robot which serves a purpose or performs a task

·         Sweet Home 3D: Design Your Room (Again)

·         Sweet Home 3D: Design a House

·         Sweet Home 3D: Make a House from Existing Floor Plans

·         Sweet Home 3D: Create one of your classrooms

·         Sweet Home 3D: Create a Street / Town

·         Sweet Home 3D: Design the “New Kelseyville High School” in 2020.

·         Daz 3D: Posing People

·         Make a 3D scene modeled after a photo (side-by-side)

·         Design an Award: Plaque, Statue, Trophy, Etc.

·         Particle Physics: Explosions and whatnot

·         Freestyle Scene: Make a scene for anything

·         Combo: Create a model with a custom [Photoshop] texture

·         Combo: Put your house with décor into a Bryce scene

·         Combo: Create a new package design with textures

·         Combo: An island with props (raft, tent, hammock, people/animals, etc.)

·         Combo: A sports arena / stadium using Rhino and put into Bryce

·         Combo: Computer Wallpaper (1024x768?) with a 3D scene and PhotoShop “branding” (i.e. KHS)

·         Put a Rhino object and a Daz figure into a Bryce scene.  In Photoshop add a title and your name.

·         UDK (Unreal Development Kit): Create a game level (group project)

·         Google Sketchup [Find Volunteer to Become an Expert]

·         Blender: [Find Volunteer to Become an Expert]

·         Blender Game Engine: [Find Volunteer to Become an Expert]

PROJECTS IN COMPUTERS: SOUND AND VIDEO EDITING

Last Updated:  06/01/13

Last Updated:  6/17/10

Sound Editing

·         Audacity: See “How to Cheat in Adobe Flash CS4”

·         Audacity: Make your own theme song based on your personality

·         Audacity: Make a Music Mix

·         Make a character speak with your voice

·         Fruity Loops

Video Production (see CTE Online Video Production Model)

Introduction to video production, storyboarding, editing, and special effects.

·         Understanding Release Forms

·         Writing / Formatting a Screenplay

·         Creating a Storyboard

·         Video Formats / Converters

·         PhotoStory: Create a slide show

·         Adobe Premiere:

·         DVD Creator: Free Windows 7 Program

·         Camtasia / Fraps: Capture Screens

·         Beginning Video: Use provided public domain video clips to piece together and edit a video with music.

·         Music Video: Create a music video for your favorite song.

·         Tutorial Video: Show someone how to install RAM, create Flash buttons, build a birdhouse, dance, etc.

·         Documentary: Present an issue, problem, person, event, etc. in documentary form.

·         Commercial: Produce a video commercial for a business (real or imagined).

·         Commercial: Priceless Ad – “Priceless… for everything else, there’s Mastercard.”

·         Slide Show / Montage: A school montage using short music clips, and edit together as a rally presentation.

·         Short Fiction Film: Storyboard, Script, Film, and Edit a short fictional film.

·         School Videos: Stream videos of teacher lesson or interview, SAT training, rallies, game highlights, etc.

·         Video Yearbook: Year-long project where students produce a video yearbook.

·         Special Effects: Use a program to add effects (light saber, glowing hands, etc.) to a movie.

·         Blue/Green-Screen Video: Create a video using a green/blue screen for special effects.

·         Lore of the Lake: Interview Elders and Make a Documentary (see releases and copyright for photos)

·         A Day In The Life Of…: Do a serious video documenting “a day in the life of” one person.

·         Movie Parody: Storyboard, Script, Film, and Edit a short movie parody.

·         Curriculum Video: Class video (i.e. local artists, types of trees, tide pool animals, tour of the Capitol, etc.)

·         This Is My School: A video showing the community what your school is all about.

·         ClayMation / Stop Motion: Use clay, action figures, paper clips, etc. to create a stop-motion movie.

·         Silent Movie: Take a famous movie clip with no audio at all and add music and sound.

·         Soap: Film a scene from a made-up soap opera with music.

·         Sitcom: Film a scene from a made-up sitcom.

·         Interviews: Interview a class, club, sports team, community elder, etc. and edit smoothly.

·         Movie Preview / Trailer: Create a movie preview or trailer for a fictitious upcoming movie.

LIFE SKILLS AND PERSONAL FINANCE OUTLINE

Last Updated:  06/01/13

Last Updated:  6/17/10

Getting Started:

·         Getting to know each other in class better.

·         Imagine two groups of people getting stranded on a desert island.  One group gets trained on dangers, survival, foraging for food, shelter, etc. and the other says, “Here’s the island… good luck.”  You choose.

·         Read: “16 Useful Hours of Financial Training” (newspaper clipping to be copied or scanned)

Your Last Year of High School:

·         Things to help you succeed in your last year of high school and your first year of college

·         Get To Know Your Teachers

·         S.L.A.N.T.:  Sit in Front, Lean Forward, Ask Questions, Nod Your Head, Talk to the Teacher

KNOW YOURSELF

Pride / Self-Respect:

·         Be yourself and believe in yourself – if you don’t, nobody else will either

·         Don’t conform to what you think your friends / colleagues want you to be

·         Hold on to your beliefs and values unless you really believe changing them is for the better

·         Don’t dress like a slob

·         Don’t expect more than you’re willing to give

·         First impressions and the way you dress will determine how people treat you

·         Responsibility for your own actions

·         Tattoo’s: (Tattoo vs. Income Level)

Personal Growth and Looking at Your Future:

·         Hope / Optimism About the Future

·         Interest Surveys / Career Interest Surveys

o   Theory of Vocational Choice (Dr. John Holland)

§  Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, Conventional

·         Personality Target

o   It’s a Wonderful Life

·         Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow *

·         Road Map of Your Life

·         Participation in politics is essential to being a responsible citizen

·         Voting & Voter Registration

·         Understanding World News vs. Local News

·         Envisioning Your Future (CC pp.13-14) (2 paragraphs)

·         10 Year Plan (CC pp.278-283)

·         Autobiographical Narrative

·         Keys that Open Locked Doors *

·         High school is nothing like real life

o   “High School Never Ends” – Bowling for Soup

·         Non Sequitur: Self Help Marketplace *

·         Life is a journey – not a destination

o   Your parents/teachers help you pack for your trip and give you a map

o   You decide how fast to drive, which side-roads to take, and when to make a rest stop

o   Sight-See

o   Take lots of photos

o   Collect mementos

o   Plan ahead

o   Find good travelling companions

o   Don’t litter – and if you see litter, pick it up

·         Life isn’t fair – don’t expect it to be

·         Life Skills Definitions *

·         Lifelong learning

o   Musical Instrument

o   Arts & Crafts

o   Hobbies

o   Sign language

o   Swimming

o   Ride a bike

o   Reading a Map

·         Learning Modalities

·         Family trees

·         Decision Making

·         Relationships

o   Abusive Partners

·         Dating

o   Interview someone who has been married to their HS sweetheart for more than 20 years.

·         Emotions & Feelings

o   Stress

o   Depression

·         Ability to read a bus schedule

·         Speaking in front of a group

·         Being social / able to talk to new people easily

·         Learning to relax while under pressure

·         Do you have a favorite music?  Movie?  Book?  Sports team?  Do you think others opinions are wrong or stupid?  Do you make fun of others for their choices?  Why?  Why do *you* have ownership?

o   Have you congratulated someone when their team won?

o   Have you ever congratulated someone because their favorite TV show was really good?

·         Set goals and achieve them

o   SMART Goals (NEFE pp.5-6)

Office / Computers:

·         Typing / Certificates

·         Internet Research

·         Email

·         Scams and bogus emails

·         Blogging & Simple Web Sites

·         Addressing an Envelope Properly

·         Microsoft Office Applications

o   Word

§  Assignment Logs

§  Drop Case

§  Collage: Who Are You? [Publisher?]

§  Who Am I? Essay *

§  Essay

·         Idea Mapping

·         Footnoting

·         Bibliography

o   Excel

o   PowerPoint

·         Computer Hardware

o   Hook up a computer

o   Open a computer / Identify parts

·         Basic photo editing / retouching

·         Basic video editing

Financial / Organizational:

·         Basic usable math

·         Solving Word Problems

·         What’s So Important About Financial Planning?  (NEFE p.3)

·         Banking

o   Balance a checkbook

§  Follow the Bouncing Check (NEFE p.63)

o   Debit Cards

§  7 Signs of Smart Debit Card Use (NEFE p.66)

o   Bank On It * (packet with masters)

o   Credit Cards

§  Understanding Credit Cards * (packet)

§  Credit Card Agreements: Interest, Terms, etc.

§  Credit Rating / Credit Score (NEFE pp.49-50)

o   Security First Bank * (book and exercises)

·         Fraud, Identity Theft, Etc.

o   When Fraud Comes Knocking (NEFE pp.72-73)

o   Deal With Deception (NEFE p.74)

o   Ten Smart Steps to Take (NEFE p.75)

·         Budgeting

o   Ask Someone Who Knows: Budget Questions *

o   Home

o   Utilities

o   Auto

·         Breaking Big Payments Into Monthly Payments

o   Propane, Kerosene, Insurance, etc.

·         Big Bucks & Big Buckets * (Check www.chadfoster.com)

·         Investing

o   Starting Early (NEFE p.29)

o   The Time Value of Money (NEFE pp.30-32)

o   Diversification vs. Dollar Cost Averaging (NEFE pp.38-39)

o   Rental Property / Real Estate

·         Credit

·         What Cost This Lifestyle

o   Cigarettes

§  Smoking Ad from 1946 *

o   Alcohol

o   Drugs

o   Monster Drinks

·         Needs vs. Wants (see Money$mart text)

o   Do I Really “Need” It… or… Do I only “Want” It? *

o   Where Does Your Money Go? (NEFE pp.8-9)

·         Bargain Shopping

o   Free Stuff on the Street (& the Dangers)

o   Garage Sales (& the Dangers)

o   FreeCycle

o   Thrift Stores

o   Antique Stores

o   Costco: Is bulk better?

o   Grocery Outlet: Why are they discounting groceries?

·         Expenses: Fixed, Variable & Periodic NEFE pp.19-20)

·         Sales Tax

o   What is taxable?

o   Is sales tax the same everywhere?

§  Cost of buying a car/furniture here vs. Santa Rosa

·         Time Management

o   Getting up on time

o   Scheduling

o   Planning ahead

o   Ability to quit something (Facebook, game, etc.) when you need to refocus

o   Break large projects into larger pieces

§  Rocks in a jar

o   Time Log

§  Time Log Follow-Up

§  Time Management Questionnaire

·         Arrive a few minutes early for appointments or meetings

·         Paying Bills: Money is due before the due date… not mailed on the due date

·         The Cost of Using Credit (NEFE pp.44-45)

·         Credit: The Good and the Bad (NEFE p.46)

·         Loans / Debt / Financing

·         Taxes: 1040ez

·         Saving Money:  Begin Saving or College Now – Even if it’s just a few dollars at a time.

o   Early savings vs. later savings

·         Cell Phones:  Is it “free” if there’s a 2 or 3 year contract?

o   Insurance

o   Replacing Phones: New vs. Used

·         Free trials aren’t free if there’s a charge for shipping/handling

·         Home Filing

·         Planning Your Dream Vacation or Across America on a Budget / Travel Project *

o   Motels, Travel Routes, Points of Interest, etc.

o   Collect “Photos” along the way and paste into your “travel journal”.

o   Spreadsheet with trips budget.

Career and Professional:

·         Paychecks

o   Income Tax, Social Security, etc. (NEFE pp.17-18)

·         What is Success?

o   Fear of Failure < Desire to Succeed

·         Why People Work (CC pp.15-16)

·         Test Taking Strategies / Test Anxiety

·         Jobs vs. Careers (NEFE pp.96-970

·         Passions

·         Values

·         Reading for Understanding

·         Note Taking Strategies

·         Reading Want Ads / Classifieds: Work, Car, Ads

·         Things Every Person Should Know Before Being on Their Own *

·         Why don’t we get paid to be in high school?  We do.

·         4-Year Plan: Am I Going to Graduate?

·         National Career Cluster Models

·         “California Educating with Careers”

·         CA Career Café

·         Career Planning Levels

o   Owner

o   Manager

o   Supervisor

o   Specialist

o   Career-Sustaining

o   Pre-Requisite (Entry Level)

·         College

o   1^st Year College Students Dropping Out at Alarming Rates

o   Finding a College Match (Career World 1/01 pp.15-17)

o   Bridges to Careers: Post-Secondary Planning (pp.39 & 35)

o   All Colleges in California

§  Community / Junior College

§  State Universities

§  University of California

§  Career / Technical Schools

o   College Visit(s)

§  Weekend / Day Trips

§  College Day

·         When is college day at Mendo?  SRJC?  Sonoma State?  (Require one?)

§  School Visitations

o   Request college information from one college of interest

o   College Requirements

o   College applications

o   10 College “Prep” Pointers (Career World 4/99 pp.19-21)

o   Per Year Estimated College Costs *

§  Average Annual Costs (NEFE p.100)

·         Scholarships

o   Financing College (Career World 9/01 pp.26-28)

o   Award Winning Scholarship Strategies (Career World 1/01 pp.4-5)

o   Six Scholarship Myths (Career World 9/01 pp.4-5)

o   Summer Action Plan (Career World 4/99 p.5)

o   10 Steps to an Outstanding Scholarship Essay (Career World 1/00 pp.4-5)

·         Professional Letterheads

·         Beginning A Portfolio [See Portfolio Section below]

o   Computers / Careers Fourth Quarter Portfolios *

o   Building Your Career Portfolio (Career World 1/01 pp.24-27)

·         Review: The Job Hunting Handbook *

·         Job Search Worksheet

·         Résumés

o   Straight Talk About Your Résumé *

o   Basic Chronological Résumé *

o   Words for Résumés * / Words That Describe You * / Function Verbs to Describe Skills *

o   Résumé Worksheet *

o   Résumé Writing Guide *

o   Résumés, Applications and Cover Letters *

·         Cover Letters *

o   Thank You (for the Interview)

§  Thank you Phone Call?

o   Follow-Up

·         Applications

·         Dealing with the Receptionist

·         References

·         Interviewing

o   Interview Tips & Bloopers  (Career World 4/99 pp.16-18)

o   Test Your Interview Skills *

o   The Interview *

o   How to Nail That Job Interview *

o   Is Your Body Language on Your Side? (Career World 11/00 pp.21-23)

o   Making a Good First Impression (Career World 9/01 pp.20-22)

o   Most Common Questions in an Interview *

o   Answering the Tough Questions in an Interview *

o   Questions You Should Ask in an Interview *

o   After-Interview Checklist *

·         Employment Testing (Career World 1/01 pp.13-14)

o   Drug Tests

o   Personality Tests

o   Skills Tests

o   Aptitude Tests

o   Honesty Tests

·         Career Research

o   Jobs: A-Z *

o   Snickers Ingredients: Jobs *

o   Book Lists Nation’s Best, Worst Jobs *

o   Career Pathways

o   Career Development Process *

o   Fastest Growing Occupations *

o   My Dream Job * / Strategies for Success: The Ideal Career *

o   Create an Occupation Poster

o   Salaries

§  Median Annual Income, by Level of Education, 1991-2006 *

§  Salaries Depend on Location: (Career World 1/00 p.2)

o   Job Descriptions

§  Pro’s and Con’s List

o   LiveInspired.com

o   Occupational Outlook Handbook: http://www.bls.gov/oco/

o   Top 10 Job-Hunting Myths (Career World 1/02 pp22-24)

o   Job Shadow

o   Career Outlook / Changes

o   Creating Your Career Path (Career World 9/01 pp.6-10)

o   Career Path II (Career World 1/02 pp.6-12)

o   Skills Desired by Fortune 500 Companies

o   Ideal Career Tests

o   Interviews

o   Dealing with Rejection (CC p.260)

o   Accepting a Job (CC p.261)

o   Handshaking

§  Shake Your Way to Success (Career World 1/02 p.2)

§  Hand Shake Etiquette *

o   Jobs are not easy to get

o   Work Ethics (Career World 4/99 pp.24-27)

o   Summer Job Hunt *

·         Brag Sheets   (Do this early in the year)

o   The Brag Sheet: How to Get Started *

·         Some specific career field information / training:

o   Nursing Assistant

o   Secretarial

o   Military

o   Law Enforcement

·         Starting a Business / Entrepreneurial Skills

o   How To Be Your Own Boss (Career World 4/99 pp.6-12)

o   How to Run a Successful Business (Career World 11/00 pp.6-10)

§  Business Ideas: House Sitter, dog walker, dog washer, lawn care, animal sitter, etc.

·         Networking vs. Burning Bridges

·         Don’t expect to become manager right away – or have a say in the way the business runs

·         Don’t cop an “I won’t do that” or “That’s not my job” or “They don’t pay me enough” attitude

·         25 Ways to Become a Popular Employee *

·         Peer Review / Evaluation

·         Living with Unemployment: (look for “Down But Not Out”)

Dealing With Others:

·         Debating Intelligently

·         Manners / Etiquette

·         Compassion and understanding of others

·         Try not to be judgmental

·         Try to keep an open mind no matter what your personal beliefs are

·         How to politely complain about customer service [in a way that will fix the problem]

·         Reign in your passion and realize when you are getting upset before you get too upset

·         How to get along with people – even the disagreeable ones

·         Shaking hands – when and how

·         Look people in the eye when speaking

·         Learn to listen when someone is speaking

·         Team work / Team building

·         Let the person with 1 item go before you in the grocery store

·         Common Courtesy:  Saying “please”, “thank you, “yes sir”, “yes ma’am”, “no sir”, or “no ma’am”

·         Being part of your community

·         Qualities to look for in a friend or partner

o   Compatibility

o   What traits do you look for in a friend?  Do you have those traits?

Automotive / Mechanical:

·         Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for Automobiles

o   Tires

o   Oil

o   Brakes

o   Wear & Tear

·         Gasoline

o   Putting gas in your car

o   Driving to Lakeport for Cheaper Gas

o   Price of Gas 9/10¢

§  Gas Tank Sizes

o   Mileage and Speed

§  Cost of Speeding

§  Mileage for Different Car Models

·         Check oil / fluids in a car

·         Add oil (if necessary)

·         Check tire pressure & add air

·         Change a tire

·         Using Basic Tools

o   Saw

o   Drill

o   Screwdrivers & Screws

o   Post-hole digger

o   Hammer & Nails

·         Putting Together a Tool Kit

o   Begin with tools that family/friends can give you

o   See about donations from local businesses

o   See: “artofmanliness.com/2009/06/01/13-essential-tools-for-a-toolbox”

·         Driving

o   Practice Drivers Tests

o   Dashboard lights – pull over!

·         Importance of Seatbelts

·         Courteous Driving / What speeding “saves” you in time and “costs” you in money

·         Drinking and Driving

·         Texting while driving

·         Car Insurance

o   Did You Know? (NEFE p.85)

o   All About Auto Insurance (NEFE pp.85-88)

o   If You Have an Accident (NEFE p.89)

Health & Fitness:

·         Health Insurance

o   What Do You Think? (NEFE p.80)

o   Risks (NEFE pp.80-83)

o   What are Preferred Providers

o   Cost Without Insurance

·         Teen Pregnancy

o   Talking with Teen Parents *

o   Baby Report *

o   Flour Baby Project

·         Drugs and Alcohol

o   Dangers

o   Effects of Marijuana

·         Wellness / Preventative Care

o   Health Chart (water, exercise, etc.)

o   Physical Fitness

·         When to see a doctor

o   How much is a doctor’s visit without insurance?

·         Basic First Aid

·         Stocking / Keeping a First Aid Kit / Emergency Kit

o   Antiseptic medications (hydrogen peroxide, iodine, triple antibiotic)

o   Ibuprofen/Acetaminophen/Aspirin [DO NOT administer aspirin to children or teens]

o   Calamine Lotion

o   Syrup of Ipecac and Activated Charcoal [for poison treatment]

o   Band-Aids [of various sizes]

o   Elastic Bandages and Roller Bandages

o   Tape and Sterile Bandages and Compresses [in sealed envelopes]

o   Triangular-Shaped Bandages

o   Sterile Cotton Balls and Q-tips

o   Sanitary Napkins

o   Scissors [with blunt tips, tweezers and safety pins]

o   Cold-Pack or Ice Bag

o   Hot Water Bottle [with cover]

o   Thermometer

o   First Aid Treatment Book [should include poison treatment guide]

o   Flashlight with Working Batteries [or crank or solar]

o   Portable Radio with Working Batteries [or crank or solar]

·         Emergency Responses

o   “Duck and Cover” (old nuclear bomb commercial)

·         CPR (Contact Kelseyville Fire Department or KCORPS)

·          Sleep Management

o   Getting Enough Sleep (Career World 9/01 pp.23-25)

·         Contraception

·         Dangers of STD’s

·         Fostering / Foster Care

·         Self Defense

o   Pink Power / Pink Diamond

o   What date rape drugs taste like

o   Basic self defense strategies

Homemaking:

·         Selecting a place to live

o   Walking distance to stores, school, etc.

o   Public transportation

o   Parking

o   Affordable groceries, gas, pharmacy, etc.

o   What services are available?

§  High Speed Internet

§  Cable

§  Satellite

§  Propane

§  Kerosene

·         Living With Someone (parents, friends, family, etc.)

o   Following the rules of people you live with

·         Home / Renters Insurance

·         You Were Just Willed an Apartment Building *

·         Inspecting an Apartment *

·         Rental Agreements / Deposits *

o   Read the Rental Agreement and See If You Understood *

·         Informal Roommate Contract *

o   Roommate Compatibility Chart *

·         What Can I Do If My Landlord Doesn’t Take Care Of A Problem For Me? *

·         Must-haves when you’re on your own

o   Furnishing and Maintaining Your Apartment *

o   Equipment & Supply Check List (for an Apartment) *

§  What kind of furnishings do I need? *

o   Plunger

·         Flipping the breakers back on if the power goes out

·         Building permits / codes

·         Simple repairs / fixes around the home

·         Laundry

o   Washing

o   Drying

o   Ironing

·         How to properly clean

·         Doing dishes

·         Sewing: attaching a button, mending a hole, making a pillow, etc.

·         Caring for a Child

·         Emergency / Weather Kit:  Flashlight, First Aid, Radio, Water, Food, Etc.

·         Basic Tool Box:  Screwdrivers, Crescent Wrench, Socket Set, Pliers

·         Pets:  Cost of feeding, grooming, shots, vet bills, etc.

·         Gardening

o   Herb garden

o   Vegetables

Nutrition, Food, and Cooking:

·         Meal planning:  Nutrition and Budget

·         Shopping:  Nutrition and Budget

·         Food Expiration:  When doe foods actually expire?

·         Shopping for groceries

o   What are the necessities? *

§  Bottled Water?  (What is the real cost? – including deposit)

·         Spreadsheet: Cost per fluid oz. of liquids (water, Monster, beer, soda, etc.)

o   Unit Price vs. Per Ounce price

o   Stick With Your List

·         Selecting Produce:  How do I select a watermelon?  Orange?  Tomato? 

·         Learn to cook

o   Cooking for one

o   Necessary Foods:  Cook rice, boil an egg, etc.

o   Baking vs. Cooking

o   Calculate the cost of meals

§  What are some cheap recipes?

·         Create a Recipe Book:  Easy, Affordable, Nutritional Meals

o   Sandwiches

o   Party Foods & Appetizers

o   Breakfasts

o   Side Dishes & Salads

o   Main Dishes:  Soups, Casseroles, Pastas, etc.

o   Desserts

TEXT OUTLINES TO CONSIDER FOR LIFE SKILLS / PERSONAL FINANCE

Last Updated:  06/01/13

Last Updated:  6/17/10

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions!  Preparing for Young Adulthood: A Guide to Making Decisions ⁰

·         Chapter 1: Making Decisions That Work for You

·         Chapter 2: Personal Values and Goals

·         Chapter 3: Getting Support from Adults

·         Chapter 4: Getting Support from Peers

·         Chapter 5: Getting Support from Community Agencies

2008 Consumer Action Handbook ¹

·         Part I: Be a Savvy Consumer

o   General Buying Tips

o   Banking

o   Cars

o   Credit

o   Education

o   Employment

o   Food and Nutrition

o   Healthcare

o   Housing

o   Insurance

o   Internet

o   Investing

o   Phones

o   Protect Your Identity

o   Protect Your Privacy

o   Shopping From Home

o   Telemarketing and Unwanted Mail

o   Travel

o   TV

o   Wills & Funerals

·         Part II: Filing a Complaint

o   Contact the Seller

o   Contact Third Parties

o   Report Fraud & Safety Hazard

·         Part III: Key Consumer Information Resources

·         Part IV: Consumer Assistance Directory

Practical Money Skills for Life ²

·         Making Decisions

·         Making Money

·         The Art of Budgeting

·         Living on Your Own

·         Buying A Home

·         Banking Services

·         About Credit

·         Credit Cards

·         Cars and Loans

·         The Influence of Advertising

·         Consumer Awareness

·         Saving and Investing

·         In Trouble

·         About Consumer Privacy

·         Supplementary Resources

NEFE High School Financial Planning Program ³

·         Unit 1: Your Financial Plan – Where It All Begins

·         Unit 2: Budgeting – Making the Most of Your Money

·         Unit 3: Investing – Making Money Work For You

·         Unit 4: Good Debt, Bad Debt – Using Credit Wisely

·         Unit 5: Your Money – Keeping it Safe and Secure

·         Unit 6: Insurance – Protecting What You Have

·         Unit 7: Your Career – Doing What Matters Most

Personal Finance: A Lifetime of Responsibility ⁴

·         UNIT I: Income – Learning to Earn

o   Ch. 1: Career Planning

o   Ch.2:  Job and Career Success

·         UNIT II: Managing Your Money

o   Ch.3: Financial Planning

o   Ch.4: Budgeting

o   Ch.5: Checking Accounts

·         UNIT III: Saving and Investing

o   Ch.6: Saving: Starting NOW!

o   Ch.7: Investment Options: Risk and Rewards

·         UNIT IV: Spending Wisely

o   Ch.8: Influences on Buying Decisions

o   Ch.9: Transportation

o   Ch.10: Housing

o   Ch.11: The Necessities: Food and Clothing

o   Ch.12: Consumer Rights and Responsibilities

·         UNIT V: Credit and Debit

o   Ch.13: Credit: Helpful or Hurtful?

o   Ch.14: Using Credit Wisely

·         UNIT VI: Financial Risk Management

o   Ch.15: Auto and Home Insurance

o   Ch.16: Health and Life Insurance

Foundations in Personal Finance (Dave Ramsey) ⁵

·         Orientation

o   What’s the point of this class?

o   Money Problems

§  Number one cause of divorce

§  Number one cause of male suicide

·         Dave’s Personal Testimony

o   Got rich and bought cool, sparkly stuff

o   Lost everything they owned

o   Tortoise and the Hare

·         7 Baby Steps (Within Unit 1)

o   $1,000 in an emergency fund

o   Debt snowball

o   3 to 6 months expenses in savings

o   Invest 15% of your income into retirement

o   College funding

o   Pay off your home early

o   Build wealth and give!

·         UNIT 1: SAVING AND INVESTING

o   Part 1

·         Must become a priority

·         How much the average person has in savings ($3,800)

·         Vaccine Analogy (needed $5,000 cash) – If it was important enough, they would

·         What country saves the most money?  (France 15%... U.S. -.6%)

·         Emotion and Contentment

·         Money is Amoral: It’s can be used for good or evil (like a brick)

·         You have to be 18 to have your own savings account

·         Savings vs. Hoarding

o   Part 2

·         Reasons for Saving:

o   Emergency Fund

§  Emergencies are going to happen

§  3-6 months expenses in savings

·         Put in a good Money Market account

o   No penalties for taking money out

§  Do NOT touch it – this is an EMERGENCY fund

§  Murphy repellant

o   Purchases

§  Instead of borrowing, pay cash by using the Sinking Fund

·         Set aside money (earning interest) toward something

§  Financing (i.e. 90 Days Same as Cash)

o   Part 3

·         Wealth Building

o   Secret to Saving = Focus and Discipline

o   Marathon not a Sprint

o   Invest $100 a month for 40 years – over $1,000,000

§  Can’t afford $100/month?  No car or furniture payments.

o   Cost of smoking ($90/month from 16 to 76 = $11.6 Million)

o   Cost of Starbucks ($5/day from 16 to 76 = $19 Million)

o   Automatic Withdrawal to Mutual Fund (You get used to it being gone)

o   They make us see our “wants” as “needs” to get our money

o   Trends, Fashion, etc. will always change.

o   Saving and staying out of debt frees up your greatest asset – income.

o   Compound Interest: $1000 at 10% = $1100.  Year two it’s $1210.  $1331.

o   Ben vs. Arthur investing from 19 to 65.  Who invested more?  (Rate?)

o   Young People: The Voice of Regret from Older Generations

o   Part 4

·         Compound Interest and Interest Rates: Why both are important

·         Interest Rate

o   $1000 at 6% (25-65) = $10,000.  12% = $93,000.  18% = $750,000.

o   Credit Card Interest

o   In case there’s an “emergency”

o   We loan the bank our money at 6% maybe and they loan it back at 18%!

o   How much do you need in an Emergency Fund if you’re a student?  $500

o   Pour all of your money into the “Spending Cup”

·         Show Credit Movie (or break into parts)

·         Bonus Material: Setting Goals

o   Skiing, getting paychecks, setting an overall financial plan

·         UNIT 2: CREDIT AND DEBT

o   Ch.4: Dangers of Debt

§  How many credit cards do you have?

·         Getting “points” or “credits” or “rewards” – Is it worth it?

·         Getting a credit card to “build your credit”

o   Credit cards are being targeted at teens (18+)

o   First semester of college you will receive between 25-50 cc solicitations

o   Borrowing money is a loaded gun

o   70% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck

o   Paradigm Shift: Thinking about things in a different way

o   Great Great Grandparents thought debt was a sin (Ford, Penney, Sears)

o   Debt is not a privilege… debt is a product.

o   We think we’re someone if we get approved for credit / debt

o   The Borrower is Slave to the Lender

o   80%of Millionaire’s are 1^st Generation Rich

o   Money Myths

§  Loaning money to friends

§  Don’t co-sign

§  Payday Lenders / Rent to Own / Title Pawn

§  Lottery and Gambling

§  Car Payments: You’ll always have a car payment

·         Car Replacement Plans

§  Lease a Car

§  Buying a New Car

§  Never take out more than 15 Year Mortgage

§  ARM or Balloon Mortgage

·         Why do we do what we do?  (My pan was too short)

§  Need a Credit Card For… (you can always use a debit card)

§  You spend less if you use cash

§  Earning airline miles

§  Teenager Credit Card

§  Gifts with Credit Cards / “I’ll never use it…”

§  Case for Economic Education by Junior Achievement

§  More young adults filed bankruptcy than grad. From college

§  Losing more students to credit card debts than academic failure

§  Home Equity / Debt Consolidation

§  Can’t borrow yourself out of debt

§  Debt is a tool – not

·         Broke finance teacher is like a shop teacher w/o fingers

§  Mimic the Winners

§  Forbes 400 – Most important way to become wealthy

·         75% say “Stay debt free”

o   We’re just goats / He just gave up / Goat that got away

o   RUN like a gazelle

o   If your broke friends are making fun of you, you’re right on track

o   Steps to Get Out of Debt

§  Quit Borrowing Money

§  Sell Something

§  Part Time Job or Overtime

o   Debt Snowball: Pay off smallest debt first and work upward

o   Ch.5: Consumer Awareness

§  Develop a Resistance to Marketing

§  Caveat Emptor: Buyer Beware

§  How many ads do you see a day?

§  Scents in the Air

§  Personal Selling: Sales people are trained to talk to you

§  Financing: Money and Easy Payments as a marketing tool

§  TV, Radio & Internet: Repetition

§  Product Positioning: Brand representation, recognition, color, shelf position, store layout, packaging,

§  Bottled Water

§  What is a “major purchase”

§  Immaturity

§  Consumer vs. Investor: One “consumes”

§  Power Over Purchase: When Buying  a Major Purchase

·         Wait Overnight

·         What Is Your Motive: Stuff does not equal happiness

·         Never Buy Anything You Don’t Understand

·         Opportunity Cost: Consider What You’re Giving Up to Make This Purchase

·         Seek Counsel / Get Advice From Someone: Someone willing to hurt your feelings

§  If you can’t buy with cash, don’t buy it.

§  Carefully Consider Your Buying Motives

·         Needs vs. Wants: Needs = food, clothing, transportation,

§  Happiness is where you are right now – don’t look back or forward.

·         “You’re Gonna Miss This” – by Trace Adkins

·         It’s like chasing a rainbow

§  Beware and Be Aware

·         Companies aggressively go after your money

§  Bonus Video: Warnings for College

·         Dealing with credit cards at college

o   Ch.6: Credit Bureaus and Collection Practices

§  What’s a FICO Score?

§  Don’t borrow or create debt to build a credit score.

§  You MUST go into debt to build a FICO score

§  Find out about: car insurance, home insurance, renting apartments with no FICO

§  Manual underwriting mortgage company

§  Things stay on your credit score for 7 years after last activity

·         Chapter 7 Bankruptcy is a 10 year activity

§  You can legally remove inaccurate information from your credit report

·         You can NOT remove accurate information – don’t fall for scams

§  Check credit report annually (once a year for free)

·         Experion

·         Trans Union

·         Equifax

§  Federal Fair Reporting Act: 30 days to remove items reported as inaccurate

§  Check once per year after 18 – just need Social Security Number.

§  15,000,000 people had their identity stolen this year.

·         Takes approximately 600 hours for a victim to recover

·         Fraud Victim Report

·         Police Report (Makes Fraud Victim Report permanent)

o   Be completely honest if you know who it is

·         You owe nothing and don’t need to pay anything

·         Contact Fraud Victim Division of Creditor and Furnish Documentation

o   Be Persistent

o   Send letters certified mail (they have 30 days from receipt)

o   If it’s not responded to in 30 days, request it be completely removed

§  Paying Debts and Dealing With Collectors

·         Develop a Plan and Get Organized

·         Collectors are NOT your friend

·         Don’t be intimidated (salespeople and telemarketers)

o   High 85% turnover and low pay / idiot in a cubicle with a headset

·         Taught to Invoke Strong Emotion (Usually fear and anger)

o   Psychological warfare

·         Show Credit/Debt Movie on Netflix

·         Federal Fair Debt Collections Act – Debt Collectors Have to Follow This

o   Harassment is Illegal

o   8am – 9pm

o   Demand creditor cease calling you at work

§  Send certified mail

o   Cease and Desist Letter (only in extreme situations)

o   Lay out instructions about how calls will be handled

o   Can’t garnish your wages (unless it’s IRS or Student Loan)

§  They have to sue you, win, wait 30 days, etc.

o   Threats Against Your Credit Score

·         What happens if you don’t pay your bills on time?

·         If you can’t pay minimum payments, use the pro rata plan

·         Have Caller ID, Call Block, and an answering machine with “memo” to record call

·         If it’s not in writing, it never happened.

·         Credit Card Collectors are Scum

·         Paying Necessities First

o   Food, House, Lights, Electricity, Basic Phone, etc.

·         Never let them have access to your account or send a postdated check.

·         Opt Out of Pre-Screening Options (online, etc.)

·         You can win this game with knowledge

o   (Have students play a game where they don’t know the rules)

·         Bonus Video: Credit Score and Employment

·         Unit 3: Financial Responsibility and Money Management

o   Ch.7: Budgeting 101

§  A budget is telling your money where to go instead of wondering where it went.

§  Written Cash Flow

§  You have got to have a game plan – a blueprint.

§  If you make $40,000/year for 10 years, you’ve let $400,000 slip through your fingers.

§  If you aim at nothing, you’ll hit it every time – Zig Ziglar

§  Starting Your Budget

§  The first few months are hard – but it gets better.

§  When should I open my first checking account?  (13-15)

§  Keep checkbook balanced EVERY MONTH.

·         Open and read the bank statement

·         Use it to reconcile the statement to the checkbook

·         Overdrafts

o   10.3 Billion Dollars in Fees for Overdrafts.

§  Why don’t people want to do a budget?

§  Cash Plans Don’t Work If…

·         You overcomplicate it.  Keep it simple.

·         You don’t do it!  Just do it!

·         You don’t live on it!

§  Take Care of Your Four Walls First

·         Food

·         Shelter

·         Clothing

·         Utilities / Transportation

§  Budget System Check List

§  SHOW ME THE MONEY!

§  Getting Going

·         Major Components of a Healthy Financial Plan

·         Consumer Equity Sheet

o   Your Net Worth               

·         Income Sources

·         Lump Sum Payment Planning

o   Planning out a monthly set-aside amount for a yearly cost

o   Planning for the “unexpected” (tires, car breaking down, etc.)

·         Monthly Cash Flow Plan

·         Student Budgeting Forms

·         Recommended Percentages

·         Allocated Spending Plan *

·         Irregular Income Planning

o   If you get extra money, how much do you spend on each item

·         Breakdown of Savings

§  BONUS VIDEO

·         Balancing Your Checkbook

o   Write down EVERY transaction in your account

o   Keep a running balance in the register

o   Compare every item from your register

o   Check for bank fees and service charges

o   NEVER trust the account balance on your ATM receipt

o   Ch.8: Bargain Shopping

§  “Horse Trading” – Bargain Shopping (It’s okay to get a deal)

·         Don’t misrepresent the truth / lie

·         Not trying to harm the other party

·         Win-Win Perspective

·         Arguing over the orange

§  Tom Stanley: “The Millionaire Next Door”

§  Lucky 7 Basic Steps of Negotiating

·         Always tell the truth – and not telling something is the same as lying

o   Integrity Matters

·         Never Buy Extended Warranties

·         Use Cash – it’s very visual, it’s immediate,

·         Understand and Use “Walk Away” Power

·         Shut Up: Nod, smile, and gather info

o   Buying a used car

·         Use the Phrase “That’s not Good Enough” & Watch Out for It

·         Good Cop / Bad Cop: Car Salesmen Examples

o   I came in to negotiate – I apologize.  I thought you were qualified to deal.  I need to make an appointment to deal with your manager.

·         If I… (were to give you $20,000 for this car, were to buy this shirt from you)

§  Patience

§  Don’t Get Married to the Purchase

§  Know Where to Find the Deals

§  College Textbooks

·         Off Campus Used Textbook Stores

§  Shop Around: Even for Banking

·         How many checks can you write?

·         Free checking for students?

·         Penalty for minimum balance?

§  Giving “Gift Certificates” as Gifts (for your talents/services)

§  But from Individuals: No “cost”

§  Estate Sales

§  Public Auctions

§  Couponing : Use on things you were going to buy ANYWAY

§  Garage Sales

§  Repo Lots: Cars

§  Flea Markets

§  Refunding

§  Foreclosures

§  Pawn Shops

§  Online Auctions / eBay

§  Classified Ads

§  Consignment Sales

§  Conventions

o   Ch.9: Relating with money

§  #1 Cause of Divorce in America: Money Problems

·         Also: Discussions/Fights About Children (whether to have them, discipline, etc.)

·         In-Laws: Set Boundaries

·         Religion

·         Think about whether you would marry this person

§  “Opposites Attract” – being on time, warm/cold, spender/saver, etc.

§  Flow of Money Represents the Value System of the Family

§  Differences Between Men and Women

·         Men are from Mars; Women are from Venus

§  Dating and Opinions of Money

§  Financial Struggles

·         Men: Self Esteem

·         Women: Fear

§  Free Spirits & Nerds: Budget Meeting

§  Singles:

·         Impulse

·         Stress

·         55% of single moms are classified as poor

·         Written Plan: Gives Empowerment and Self Control

·         Accountability Partner: Willing to get in your face and hurt your feelings

§  Teaching Kids

·         Work Hard

·         Save

·         Spend Wisely

·         Always be Givers

§  Earning Money

§  Money is Finite

§  Young People Bouncing a Check

§  Sharing With Your Parents

·         Be Careful – People are touchy about money

§  Parent and School Involvement

§  “Give your kids enough money that they can do anything… but not enough that they can do nothing.”  – Warren Buffett

§  BONUS VIDEO: TIME MANAGEMENT

·         Know how to balance your time

·         Get studying done first so you can hang with your friends

·         Unit 4: Insurance / Risk Management and Income / Careers

o   Ch.10: Career Choices and Taxes

§  Find and Follow Your Passion

·         Follow your heart and enjoy what you do

§  Working in our Strengths

§  Outgo vs. Income

·         “If your outgo exceeds your income, your upkeep will be your downfall.”

§  Because of the rate of change, careers are constantly changing

§  Commitment to be a lifelong learner

§  Average Job lasts 2.1 Years (avg. worker will have over 20 jobs in their lifetime)

§  Where do you want to be?  What do you want to be doing?

§  “Trombone Player Wanted” – Marcus Buckingham

§  Myth: As you grow, you change -- You don’t outgrow your personality, typically.

§  You don’t need to be “balanced” or “well rounded”

§  Concentrate on your strengths as much as you concentrate on your weaknesses

§  Believe it or not… money will NOT make you happy.

§  Identify your motivation and your passion

§  Dan Miller – “48 Days to the Work You Love”

·         Skills

·         Abilities

·         Personality Traits

·         Values

·         Passions

§  How do I figure out what I want to do?

·         Natural Tendencies & Personality Style

§  “EQ” – Emotional Quotient

·         In the formula that creates success, only 15% is academic training

o   85% include passion, perseverance, character traits, attributes, integrity

§  College is essential – and is never a waste.  Learning how to learn, lifelong learning.

§  DISC Profile:  Dominant, Influencing, Stable, Complient

§  “Good to Great” – Collins

·         Get the right people in the bus… wrong people off the bus… right people in the right seats on the right bus.

§  Pursue a company you love

§  Contact the company

·         Introduction Letter

·         Cover Letter

·         Follow Up (set an appointment)

·         Thank you note

§  Résumé

§  Cover Letter (why you are submitting a résumé)

§  Interview

·         Appearance

·         Be on Time

·         Address everybody by name

·         Firm handshake

·         Look People in the Eye

·         You get hired/fired the first 30 seconds of the Interview – sometimes.

§  Taxes

·         Federal  Income Tax

·         Social Security (FICA)

·         Medicare

·         State Income Tax

·         How much all together?  About 25%

§  Only 15% of jobs come out of the newspaper

§  Long Term Strategic Thinking Career

§  Necessities – money to eat

§  How Important is Income?

§  Short Term Game Plan: Working in uncomfortable places

§  Start Your Own Business

§  Not going to give up.  Not going to get stuck in a rut.

§  Don’t allow work to be your only source of worth

§  BONUS VIDEO: Your First Year of College

o   Ch.11: Ins and Outs of Insurance

§  Insurance is to Transfer Risk – It’s best to use it for catastrophes

·         Continually be shopping

·         Maybe contact an independent agent (not just a guy for one company)

§  7 Basic Kinds of Coverage

·         Homeowners / Renters

o   Guaranteed Replacement Cost vs. Extended Replacement Cot

o   Landlords aren’t responsible if your belongings are damaged or stolen

§  Also if someone is injured.

o   Moving Out on Your Own

§  Renters Insurance

·         Auto Insurance

o   Protects you against financial loss on theft, accident, or damage

o   Provides property, liability and medical coverage

o   Required

o   Liability – at least $500,000

o   Rates

§  Luxury Car

§  Raised Deductible

§  Clean Driving Record

§  Academic Discounts for Grades

§  Shop Around for Rates

§  College?  Maybe able to stay on parents plan

§  What discounts do they offer?

·         Anti-Theft Device

·         Drivers Ed

§   

·         Health Insurance

o   Only 59% of employed people have insurance at their job

o   80/20 Plans

o   Increase Stop Loss (max out of pocket) i.e. after $10,000 they pay 100%

o   Never Decrease Maximum Pay (maximum they will pay out total)

o   HSA: Health Savings Account – Tax Deductible Medical Savings Account

o   Medical Bills can Ruin Your Credit

·         Disability Insurance

o   Replace Income Lost Due to Short Term or Permanent Disability

o   1 in 3 Chance at Becoming Disabled (6 months or more) in Your Life

o   Get Occupational Disability if You Can: Based on your job skills

§  Can get a 2 year plan

o   Don’t buy short-term disability.  Focus on long term.

§  Emergency Fund (3-6 months) covers this

o   If they offer it at work, buy it.

o   Usually 50-70% but try to stay at 65% at least

o   Elimination Period (waiting time)

·         Long-Term Care Insurance

o   Don’t worry about it until you are 60 – then do it immediately.

o   Talk to parents/grandparents about their long term insurance

§  Powdered Butt Syndrome: Don’t want your opinion on money

o   69% of you will need long term care

o   Last 6 months of your life are most expensive

o   You can’t just move assets out of your (or parent/grandparent) name

·         Identity Theft Protection

o   Fastest growing white collar crime in north America today

o   52,188,123 instances of identity theft

o   Spend average of 600 hours getting it cleaned up

o   Don’t buy ID theft protection that only provide credit report monitoring

o   Includes restoration services to clean up the mess

o   Shred Papers

o   Never give SSN until you have actually been offered a job

o   Beware of Phishing

§  Good Phishing tips here

·         Life Insurance

o   Replace lost income due to death

o   22% of public has NO life insurance

o   Term: For a specified period (cheaper and no savings plan)

o   Cash Value: Life, much more expensive, funds a savings plan (Whole Life, Universal Life, etc.)

o   Not a permanent need for life insurance

o   Permanent life insurance is a huge profit maker

o   Buy Term Life Insurance and invest the rest

§  Buy for spouse as well

§  Rider for children to cover burial

o   Stay away from crazy financial options (i.e. accidental death)

§  Avoid “Return of Premium” programs

o   About 10 times your income on you

o   Credit “pay off” insurance is a bad idea – 90 times the rate

o   Cancer and Hospital Indemnity Insurance – Gimmick

o   Any Insurance with Cash Returns

o   Prepaid Burial Policies – Put the money in a savings plan

o   Mortgage Life Insurance – If you’re sick and can’t get insurance

§  10-15 times the cost of term insurance

§  Only pays off the mortgage

o   Emotional Sellers – the companies make money on you

o   Don’t buy duplicate coverage – it has the reverse effect

§  They fight with each other over who is responsible

§  BONUS VIDEO: Insurance for Students

·         Getting health insurance at college

o   Student health plans (check with college)

o   Go to health insurance company

o   Shop around!

o   Corporate Provided Health Care is slowly going away

§  Moving toward HSA

§  Deductibles

o   Ch.12: Real Estate and Mortgages

§  Couple arguing about renting vs. buying and cats and savings vs. borrowing

§  Average price of a house

§  Baby Step 6: Pay Off House Early

§  Selling Your Home

·         Think like a retailer

o   Clean Up: Sparkling and Shiny

o   Bright Light bulbs (makes it seem bigger)

o   Like a model home – people don’t live here

o   No Dogs

o   No Cats

o   Everything but 2 things come off the kitchen counter

o   Take about 75% out of the closet, box, and put in garage

o   Bake bread or vanilla extract

o   Light a Candle

o   Get out of the house

o   Remove extra furniture

o   Clear out cobwebs

o   Clean glass doors (lip prints, fingerprints, smudges)

·         Fix Ups: Before you put it on the market go through the house and fix

·         Attention to Curb Appeal

o   71% of Buyers Make a Decision from the Curb (go in just to make sure)

o   Trim or remove bushes

o   Look from the street and look for problems as if you just drove up

o   Paint the front door

·         List it on the Internet!!  (Make sure your realtor lists it!)

·         Use a Realtor – if they are good.  20% do 80% of the business.

o   Do NOT use a friend or relative

o   Interview them – they are a marketing consultant getting $12-20k.

§  How many houses have you sold this year?

·         Use MLS Multiple Listing Service (Realtors Use) – Shared Listings

·         Offering a Home Warranty won’t help make a sale

o   Real estate agents get commissions

§  BUYING A HOME

·         Forced savings plan – as you pay mortgage off you save money

·         Inflation Hedge

·         Grows virtually tax free (if you own it for 2 years you can make profit)

·         Always buy title insurance (insures against unclean title)

·         If you’re buying land, get a survey unless you’re buying a standards subdivision

·         Get a realtor to help you with the MLS

·         Always buy at the bottom of the neighborhood range

·         Homes appreciate in good neighborhoods: Location, location, location

·         Buy near water or with a view

·         Overlook bad paint, old carpet, etc.  – Good bargains to be found.

·         Always buy a home that is attractive at the street *and* has a good floor plan

o   Don’t buy a house with ugly bones

·         Have home inspected by a certified home inspector

·         Appraisal: An opinion of value

·         Do NOT do a balloon mortgage

·         Do NOT do adjustable rate mortgages

·         Do NOT do Interest Only loans

·         Do NOT do a reverse mortgage

o   Full of fraud and con artists

o   Even legitimate reverse mortgages are bad

·         Do NOT go with Accelerated Payments

o   It’s okay to do this, but not paying people or software to help you

·         Bi-Weekly Payments can work – but do it on your own

·         Do NOT buy trailers or mobile homes (go down faster than a car)

·         Do NOT buy time shares (go down in value – you can’t give them away)

o   NOT an investment

·         HATE debt – consider paying cash

·         If you’re going to buy…

o   Payment no more than 25% take home pay

o   15-Year Fixed Rate Mortgage

§  $225,000 15yr=$1,899 / 30yr=$1,349

o   At least 10% down

·         Paying Off Your House: Do you lose your tax deduction on the interest?

·         Get a mortgage from a mortgage company

·         Get a “Conforming Mortgage” – it conforms to general conventional mortgage

·         Sallie and Fannie Mae

·         Types of Mortgages

o   Conventional Mortgages / Conforming Mortgages

§  PMI – Private Mortgage Insurance (foreclosure insurance)

§  If you don’t put down 20% you are required to buy PMI

o   FHA Loan

§  Insured by government

§  Small down payments (as low as 3%)

§  More expensive – Not recommended

o   VA Loan

§  Insured by veterans administration

§  Lot of fees and high interest

§  Should buy a conventional loan

o   Owner Financing

§  Creative loan structure

·         Do not buy real estate quickly – be the tortoise, not the hare.

·         Owning a home can be a curse if you aren’t ready

§  RENTING

§  Apartment Hunting

·         Extras: spas, pools, etc.

·         Ask about hidden expenses: pets, trash service, washer/dryer, etc.

·         Understand the lease before you sign

o   Is rent listed correctly?

o   Is deposit on there?

o   What if you break the lease?

o   Do not sign if you don’t understand and do NOT give a deposit

§  BONUS VIDEO: 15 Year vs. 30 Year Mortgage

Financial Math: Book One  ⁶

·         Chapter 1: Basic Math Review

·         Chapter 2: Rounding and Estimates

·         Chapter 3: Dollars and Sense

·         Chapter 4: Wages and Earnings

·         Chapter 5: Buying Groceries

·         Chapter 6: Sales, Fees, and Payment Programs

·         Chapter 7: Insurance

Financial Math: Book Two ⁷

·         Chapter 1: Bank Accounts

·         Chapter 2: Borrowing Money

·         Chapter 3: Paying for a Home

·         Chapter 4: Investing

·         Chapter 5: Taxes

·         Chapter 6: Maintaining a Car

·         Chapter 7: Personal Finance

Work Skills: Situational Judgment and Active Listening  ⁸

·         Chapter 1: Solve Problems and Make Decisions

·         Chapter 2: Active Listening

·         Chapter 3: Resolve Conflict

·         Chapter 4: Cooperate with Others

·         Chapter 5: Take Responsibility for Learning

Read to Work: Business  ⁹

·         Unit 1: Jobs in Information Handling

o   Lesson 1: Working as a Receptionist

o   Lesson 2: Handling Mail and Packages

o   Lesson 3: Delivering Messages by Hand

·         Unit 2: Office Support Jobs

o   Lesson 4: Working as a Secretary

o   Lesson 5: Working in Personnel

o   Lesson 6: Checking Insurance Formas

·         Unit 3: Jobs in Customer Service

o   Lesson 7: Taking Customers’ Orders

o   Lesson 8: Working in an Auto Club

o   Lesson 9: Meeting Customers’ Needs

·         Unit 4: Jobs in Finance

o   Lesson 10: Working as a Bank Teller

o   Lesson 11: Checking Credit Information

o   Lesson 12: Preparing Bills

Becoming Money $mart (Smart)  ¹⁰

                (Merge with Dave Ramsey Unit)

·         Chapter 1: Planning Your Financial Future: It Begins Here

·         Chapter 2: Paychecks: using Your Money Wisely

·         Chapter 3: Budgets: Keeping Track of Your Money

·         Chapter 4: Banking: Managing Your Money

·         Chapter 5: Credit: Buy Now, Pay Later

·         Chapter 6: Insurance: Protecting Your Assets

·         Chapter 7: Education: A Passport to Your Future

·         Chapter 8: Loans: Cars and Housing

·         Chapter 9: Investments: Making Your Money Work for You

·         Chapter 10: Retirement Planning: Looking Toward the Future

·         Chapter 11: Your Financial Future: You Make the Choice

TENTATIVE CAREER UNIT OUTLINE

CAREER RESEARCH

RÉSUMÉ

COVER LETTERS

PROFESSIONAL REFERENCES

LETTERS OF REFERENCE

PORTFOLIO DEVELOPMENT

·          Now that you have a résumé, a cover letter, references, etc., you need to complete the package and build a portfolio.  A portfolio is a “show and tell” résumé – a sophisticated scrapbook.  Portfolio’s offer you a unique opportunity to present your accomplishments and skills, using them to your advantage.  It allows you to elaborate on the sections of your résumé of which you are the most proud and to include additional information about yourself that is relevant to the job for which you are applying.  It highlights your skills and abilities, and it documents your classroom, employment, and extracurricular achievements.  For example, anybody can say they have strong writing skills, but someone who includes a sample of their writing is proving it.  Another example would be telling a prospective employer that you have experience with a variety of computer applications – or you can show them a collection of works.

·          Until recently it was primarily people in the visual arts, performing arts and education professionals that used portfolios – but times have changed.  Now job seekers across all industries have started to take advantage of the edge that a complete, well-constructed portfolio can provide.  It is a strong persuasive tool in the interview process when you can visually demonstrate evidence of your skills and abilities to an employer. 

·          A good cover letter will get employers to read your résumé… a good résumé will help get you an interview… and strong communication skills will enhance your ability to stand out and be more likely to get an offer of employment.  If you insert a well-constructed portfolio into the process you will have a competitive edge that sets you apart from other applicants and will dramatically improve your chances of being hired for the job.

·          First and foremost, your portfolio will be a key component of your job interview presentation.  Additionally, as a high school student (or new college student) your portfolio will helpful in organizing college applications, applying for scholarships, and planning your schedule.  Once you are employed you can use your portfolio to document your professional growth (classes and workshops in your industry).

·          Portfolio Appearance:

o    It is important that your portfolio be visually appealing and easy to read.  You’ve probably heard the old adage, “You can’t judge a book by its’ cover.”  Unfortunately, we do it all the time – and so do employers.  A nice portfolio is as important in an interview as dressing nicely and combing your hair. 

o    I strongly suggest a professional-looking portfolio (i.e. leather or faux leather) with a 3-ring binder mechanism and high quality sheet protectors.

o    Your portfolio should be attractive, well-organized, and relevant to the position [or college] you are applying for.

·          Portfolio Organization:

o    Design a cover sheet that includes an interesting background with your name and appropriate photo prominently placed.

§   http://get2work.borderlink.org/page.php?pid=190&book=yp

o    Use quality sheet projectors.  Do NOT three-hole punch items.

o    Use index tabs or title pages to divide each section (if necessary).

o    Omit page numbers to make it easier to add and move items.

o    Use the same font, font size, and style for all headings in order to give your portfolio a consistent look.

o    Begin keeping track of extracurricular activities.

o    What do I include in my portfolio:

§   Table of Contents

§   Résumé

o    Skills to Highlight:

§   Communication (speaking, listening, reading and writing)

§   Mathematics

§   Science and Technology

§   Thinking Skills: Learning, Reasoning, Creative Thinking, Decision Making, Problem Solving

·          Web sites created

·          Program from an event you helped plan

·          List of conferences and workshops you have attended (and a description of each)

·          Samples of flyers, newsletters, or brochures you have designed

·          Description of a class project you completed utilizing “thinking skills”

·          Examples: http://get2work.borderlink.org/page.php?pid=192&book=yp

§   Personal Qualities: Responsibility, self-confidence, honesty, integrity, adaptability, flexibility, team player, punctuality, self-directed, positive work attitude, well groomed, cooperative, self-motivated, time management

·          Completion of a project done within a time deadline

·          Joining a new organization

·          Running for an office

·          Leadership recognition as a class officer

·          Recommendations from employers you have worked for who can attest to your character

·          Recommendations from teachers and other school staff who have knowledge of your abilities

·          Photos or newspaper clippings showing you as part of a team whether related to sports or class project

·          School transcript showing good attendance and lack of tardies

·          Web site, PowerPoint, newsletter or other creative assignment done with minimal direction from teacher

·          Certificate of appreciation for a service learning project

·          Documentation of extra-curricular activities

·          A well-organized, attractive portfolio

·          Examples: http://get2work.borderlink.org/page.php?pid=193&book=yp

o    Examples to Demonstrate Skills:

§   Official copies of transcripts (high school and college)

§   College acceptance letters

§   Scholarship letters

§   ACT, PSAT, SAT or other standardized scores

§   Honor roll certificates

§   Other certificates or awards or honors

§   Samples of your writing

§   Personal statement for college applications

§   Documentation of technical or computer skills

§   Letters of commendation

§   Letters of appreciation

§   Letters of nomination to honors and academic organizations

§   Newspaper articles that address your academic, creative, or athletic achievements

§   Evidence of completed courses in technology

§   Certificates received from Regional Occupational Program courses

§   A list of computer software programs that you use

§   Articles that you wrote for the school newspaper, club newsletter, or yearbook

§   Golden State Examination Academic Excellence Award

§   Science fair project notes and pictures

§   Sample of PowerPoint presentations

§   Examples: http://get2work.borderlink.org/page.php?pid=191&book=yp

o    Experience: Paying job, volunteer work, work readiness skills, etc.

§   Certificates or other documents of employer recognition

§   Business cards from past employers

§   Copies of performance reviews

§   Lists of skills you gained on the job relating to:

·          Communication

·          Responsibility

·          Team Participation

·          Time Management

·          Customer Service

§   Descriptions of projects you completed

§   Letters of recommendation from co-workers and employers

§   Pictures of you on the job

§   Web sites you developed for your school, church, or someone’s business

§   PowerPoint presentations you produced for a charity or school function

§   Certificates of Appreciation for participating in a philanthropic project

§   http://get2work.borderlink.org/page.php?pid=194&book=yp

·          Electronic Portfolios:  Presented via the Internet, CD-ROM, USB drive, etc.

o    Include a “mailto” link [to a professional-sounding email address] so prospective employers can contact you

o    Create your printed portfolio and then include the Word documents in electronic form.  You may want to convert them to PDF first.

o    Be sure it’s well organized – perhaps using folders or an interface – especially if it’s online.

o    Avoid using personal information (drivers license, SSN, home address, phone number, etc.) for online documents.

o    Bell State University Career Center for Online Portfolios: http://www.bsu.edu/students/careers/documents/portfoli/

·          Conclusion: 

o    Now that your portfolio is complete, practice presenting it to a family member or friend to listen how well you tell your story.  The best portfolio in the world won’t help you if you don’t know how to use it effectively during an interview.

o    Portfolio Web Sites:

§   A Secret Weapon for Your Internship Search: http://www.internweb.com/portfolios.asp

§   Michigan State University Career Services: http://www.csp.msu.edu/pages/explore/proport.cfm

§   Florida State University Portfolio Prep: http://www.career.fsu.edu/ccis/guides/port.html

§   Education Students: http://www.pampetty.com/profportfolio.htm

JOB SEARCH SKILLS

INTERVIEWS

FOLLOW UP

WORKING

INDEPENDENT STUDY / CREDIT RECOVERY

Last Updated:  06/01/13

Last Updated:  6/17/10

Main Header 

·         First Item

NCAA Division I and II Eligibility

·         NCAA rules regarding software-based credit recovery, virtual, online, independent study, and correspondence courses have change.  These types of courses which are identified by the NCAA Eligibility Center as nontraditional courses, must meet specific guidelines in order to be used toward initial eligibility for college-bound student-athletes.  As discussed in previous newsletters, the rule change was adopted for Division I college-bound student-athletes and was effective August 1, 2010.  This legislation has now been adopted for Division II as well.

·         Requirements for Nontraditional Courses: To be used toward initial eligibility, nontraditional courses must meet the following criteria

o   Courses taught through distance learning, online, credit recovery, etc. need to be comparable in length, content and rigor to courses taught in a traditional classroom setting.  Students may not skip lessons or test out of modules.  The course must be four-year college preparatory.

o   All courses must include ongoing access between the instructor and student, as well as regular interaction for purposes of teaching, evaluating and providing assistance.  This may include, for example, exchanging of e-mails between the student and the teacher, feedback on assignments, and the opportunity for the teacher to engage the student in individual instruction.

o   Any course taken must have a defined time period for completion.  For example, it should be clear whether the course is meant to be taken for an entire semester or during a more condensed time frame.

o   Nontraditional courses should be clearly identified as such on the high school transcript.

ADDITIONAL TOPICS TO THINK ABOUT

Last Updated:  06/01/13

Last Updated:  6/17/10

·         Audio Books on CD

·         Disabled for a Day

o   Blindfolded

o   Wheelchair

o   Arm tied down

·         Song of the Week

o   Inspirational Songs

o   Songs with Meaningful Lyrics

·         Hall of Doors

·         Animals

o   Dogs

o   Cats

o   Tortoises

o   Birds

o   Snakes

·         GLEF: George Lucas Educational Foundations

·         Einstein: Insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.

o    

TEACHER TRAINING / ASSISTANCE

Last Updated:  06/01/13

Last Updated:  6/17/10

Memory Sticks for Teachers

·         Handbooks

·         Technology / Appropriate Use Agreement

·         Forms (Student Data, “time outs”, referrals, hall passes, bulletin submission forms, etc.)

·         Letterhead

·         Lesson Plan Reflection Form

·         Web Shortcuts (by subject/discipline)

·         Clip Art (knights logos, school photo, free educational clips, etc.)

·         Email Addresses (Faculty Directory, Emails, Phones, etc.)

·         Office Templates (PowerPoints, Calendars, Seating Charts, Certificates, etc.)

·         Sound Clips

Workshop Ideas

·         Just for the Kids / edresults.org

·         Internet Search Strategies: Taking full advantage of Google searches, locating relevant data, etc.

·         Microsoft Word: Formatting, images, working with clip art, copying/pasting from the Internet, etc.

·         Microsoft Excel: Using formulas, making graphs, creating forms, etc.

·         Microsoft PowerPoint: Beyond "how to use it", adding video clips, links to resources, etc.

·         Adobe Photoshop: Photo editing and effects [only 2 labs have Photoshop but I could still cover it]

·         Creating a Class Blog: Blogs are easy to set up and even easier to update.  Use as a class "home page".

·         Using Google Docs: Used as file storage or even use their built-in word processing, spreadsheets, etc.

·         Using PhotoStory: Easy, free program lets you create a slide show with a bunch of pictures and music.

·         Video Editing: Using a free video editor we put together movie clips to create videos w/ tiles and music.

LIST OF ASSIGNMENTS FROM 2010-2012

Last Updated:  06/01/13

Last Updated:  6/17/10

Projects in Computer Technology

·         Email Accounts

·         Blogger Pages

·         Keyboarding

·         Block Letter: To Future Me

·         Microsoft Word Sampler

·         Extra Credit: Back to School Night

·         PHOTOSHOP

o   PS: Rule of Thirds Crop

o   PS: Veggie Head

o   PS : Retouching

o   PS: Colorize (Spray)

o   PS: Colorize (Erase)

o   PS: Replace Color

o   PS: Break-Out

o   PS: Gondola

o   PS: Collage (Wallpaper)

o   PS: Blog Header

o   PS: iPod/Phone Screen

o   PS: Public Service Posters

o   PS: Jack O’Lantern

o   PS: Virtual Makeover

o   PS: Fool the Eye

o   PS: Project Frankenstein

o   PS: Plantimal / Chimera

o   PS: Caricature

o   PS: Paper Doll

o   PS: Seamless Tiled Background

o   PS: Package Dieline

o   PS: Custom License Plate

o   PS: 3D Anaglyph

o   PS: Restore Damaged Photo

o   PS: Magazine Cover

o   PS: CD Case

o   PS: Movie Poster

·         FLASH

o   Flash: Drawing

o   Flash: Trace a Photo

o   Flash: Frame-by-Frame Animation

o   Flash: Shape Tween

o   Flash: Button

o   Flash: Motion Tween

o   Flash: Import Animated GIF

o   Flash: Greeting Card

o   Flash: Mouse Pointer

o   Flash: Eyes that Follow the Mouse

o   Flash: Motion Guide

o   Flash: Invisible Button

o   Flash: Interactive Book

o   Flash: Virtual Paper Doll

·         BRYCE

o   Bryce: Island Scene

o   Bryce: Snowman / Snow Globe

o   Bryce: River Valley

o   Bryce: Lake / Pond

o   Bryce: Boolean Difference

o   Bryce: Forest

o   Bryce: City Block

o   Bryce: Desert

o   Bryce: 3D Logo

o   Bryce: Rounded Objects

o   Bryce: Outer Space

o   Bryce: Importing External Models

o   Bryce: Streaming Light Rays

o   Bryce: Under Water

o   Bryce: Outer Space

o   Bryce: 3D Model with Symmetrical Lattice

o   Bryce: Organic Shapes

o   Bryce: Animation I (Moving Object)

o   Bryce: Animation II (Moving Camera)

o   Bryce: Animation III (Camera Follow Object)

·         SCULPTRIS

o   Sculptris: Sea Creature

o   Sculptris: Head

o   Sculptris: Body

o   Sculptris: Edit a Creature

·         RHINO

o   Rhino: Castle

o   Rhino: Room Corner

o   Rhino: Goblet or Vase

o   Rhino: Funky Coffee Table

o   Rhino: Checker Board

o   Rhino: Chess Pieces

o   Rhino: Text Model

o   Rhino: Wooden Box

o   Rhino: Pull Toy

o   Rhino: Rubber Duck

o   Rhino: Air/Space Craft (Box Model)

o   Rhino: Inlaid Table with Carved Legs

o   Rhino: Tissue Box

o   Rhino: Basic Furniture (Dresser, End Table, TV)

o   Rhino: Room Design

·         SWEET HOME 3D

o   House Design

o   House Design (from Existing Floor Plan)

o   House Design (Two Story)

·         WEB DESIGN

o   Basic HTML / XHTML Framework

o   Coffee House Page: Basic CSS

o   Curriculum Resource Page

·         VIDEO EDITING

o   Storyboard (GewGaw?)

o   GewGaw

o   Production Company Intro

o   Video Intro Sequence

o   Tutorial / How-To

o   Video Yearbook

o   Emotional Music Montage: Sadness, Anger, Loneliness, Happiness, Love