Computer Science: Grades 5 and up
Computer Science Pure and Simple for Homeschoolers – Book 1
Authors: Phyllis H. Wheeler, Don Sleeth, Virginia Sparks, Laura Breidenbach
Publisher: Motherboard Books
For more information or to order: www.motherboardbooks.com

Computers…love’em or hate’em, they’re here to stay!  In fact, we will be doing our students a disservice if we do not equip them with the tools they need to excel in an increasingly “digital” world.  Whether you consider yourself an expert or novice, it can be challenging to come up with a way to systematically teach these important skills.  When I heard there was a curriculum for teaching computer skills, I immediately contacted the author for a review copy.  My son, age 12 was the perfect “test” candidate J Computer Science Pure and Simple for Homeschoolers provides a strong foundation in three important areas of computing: basic office applications, computer programming, and website design.  From the very first lesson, we found this program to be well organized and easy-to-understand.

Computer Science Pure and Simple presents all concepts in a step-by-step format.  Lessons in each topic build on each other.  Along with clear instructions, there are also plenty of screenshots so the student knows exactly what they need to look for as they are working through the lessons.  My son was able to work through the lessons with very little help from me.  Although they cover three different areas of computing, lessons are kept interesting by “mixing up” the lessons.  For example, the first lesson covers some basic functions of word processing using Microsoft Word.  In lesson 2, students begin a series of lessons on basic programming.  Lessons vary in length, with some having additional assignments to allow students to apply what they have learned.  There are 21 lessons all together and are designed to be completed on a once a week schedule.  Much of this material was originally presented in a class situation, with students sent home to practice skills learned each week.  We found that, working independently, my son was able to complete several lessons in one week.  So, if using in a co-op situation, the course would take 5 months, while students working on their own should be able to complete it in as little as 6 – 8 weeks.

I just mentioned that my son completed several lessons in one week.  One of the reasons for this burst of motivation is the programming section and software used by the author.  In order to complete the programming lessons, you will need to have a copy of MicroWorld, which is available for purchase from the publisher of Computer Science Pure and Simple.  MicroWorld is a programming interface for the Logo computer language.  Logo is a very basic programming language that has been used by beginners, young and old, for several years.  My son LOVED learning Logo!  In fact, even if he didn’t do any of the other lessons in the book, the exposure to MicroWorld and the Logo language makes this book worth the price. 

In addition to basic word processing and programming, Computer Science Pure and Simple covers basic web-design, and other office programs such as spreadsheets.  Every topic is presented in an easy-to-follow format.  Some lessons include additional exercises or assignments designed to reinforce the material covered.  I did find myself wishing there were more assignments though.  This would really help the student to apply their new skills and help the parent/teacher to have an idea of how well their child understands the material.

Computer Science Pure and Simple for Homeschoolers fills a real need for families desiring to give their children a well-rounded education that includes computer skills.  I can’t say enough about the MicroWorlds component – if your child is even remotely interested in programming/video games, this is the best way to give them a feel for what it is like to develop their own programs.  The lessons for all of the topics are presented so well that most students can work through the course independently.  I eagerly look forward to reviewing future products from Motherboard Books!

Making the grade: B+
Cost: $24.99 (book only), $59.99 (book and MicroWorlds 2.0 software)
Value for your homeschool dollar: 9