In 7th grade we stress the educational use of computer programs such as database, draw (desktop publishing), paint (edit graphics), and multimedia.

In 8th grade we shift to the business use of programs. To increase enthusiasm and interest, the students create their own business. Something they would enjoy and engage them in their work (skateboards, clothing, pets, sporting goods, etc). They create a product database with calculation fields. They create reports using a sort, search, and layout for each. They create animations to use in their presentations. In our spreadsheet unit, they create tables and charts using the records from their database. The culminating project is to create a linear business presentation. The presentation includes reports from their database, charts from their spreadsheets, animations, and pictures of products that they sell. They enhance their presentation with special effects.