This program is a computer contest to be held at the National 4-H Engineering Event. Participation is limited to 4-H members enrolled in the 4-H Computer project during the current year.

Objectives

1. To provide a challenging microcomputer experience which will encourage creativity.
2. To promote logical problem solving techniques utilizing microcomputers.
3. To recognize youth for their accomplishments in microcomputer applications.
4. To expand the use of microcomputer programs in 4-H.

Eligibility of Exhibitors

1. Each state may enter a maximum of two 4-H youth in this contest.
2. Participants must be enrolled in the 4-H Computer project during the current year.
3. Participants must have reached his or her 14th but not 19th birthday as of January 1 of the current year.
4. Previous state winners and national computer contestants are not eligible to participate in the Computer Event.

Contest Rules

• Windows type software will be used as a standard for this event with questions and problems related to current widely used word processing and spreadsheet software. A popular windows version of spreadsheet and word processing software will be required this year to use in "hands-on" problems. Some questions will pertain to general practices of Internet and www access and use.
• The event will consist of three components as described below:

• Contestants are required to bring their own equipment and supporting materials to compete in this event. This includes a microcomputer with keyboard, monitor, disk drive, 80 column printer, multiple plug outlet, Windows, spreadsheet software, word processing software, extra floppy diskette, and approximately 30 sheets of paper for the printer. A 3.5 inch diskette with graphic files and sample text will be provided for use in the hands-on exercise.

Written Quiz

A quiz will be given to each contestant at the event to determine the contestant's knowledge and understanding of general computer terminology and programming. Questions to be taken from the references cited in GENERAL INFORMATION and below.

References

• National 4-H Computer Curriculum: Booting Up (4HCCS BU-7509); Adding On (4HCCS BU-7510); Reaching Beyond (4HCCS BU-7511)
• 4-H Computer Projects: High Tech Electricity and Electronics (7th-9th Grade Level), and Computer (10th-12th Grade Level), Louisiana Cooperative Extension
• Lotus or Excel Spreadsheet software and manuals
• Word or WordPerfect word processing software and manuals
  

Hands-On Problem Solving

Each contestant will be given several short mathematical and logical type problems which can be solved by software stated above and produce printed results using their own equipment. The results will be judged on readability, format, organization, accuracy, and following of the instructions given.

The contestant should understand how to use spreadsheet software including, but not limited to knowing how to:

1. Move around and enter titles and equations in the spreadsheet and access the Help features.
2. Print out results and the formulas used to obtain the results.
3. Format the spreadsheet as required (for example, column width, number of decimals, currency format, etc.).
4. Organize the spreadsheet so that it is readable, clear, and understandable with necessary instructions and documentation to enable another person to use the spreadsheet.
5. Use absolute and relative cell references or a combination of both.
6. Perform mathematical operations including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, exponentiation, sums, and averages.
7. Use the spreadsheet to solve, or to develop a program to solve, an assigned problem.
8. Use the @SUM and @AVG functions to calculate the sum and average of a column or block of data, or whatever functions your software uses.
9. Use the IF, =IF or @IF function for logical decisions and selections.
10. Be able to produce and print line and bar graphs from a set of data.

Spreadsheet software must be brought to use in a hands-on problem. 
 

The contestant should understand how to use word processing software including, but not limited to, knowing how to:

1. Format and change margins, line spacing, fonts before and within a document.
2. Make corrections, insertions, deletions, underlining and bolding characters throughout a document.
3. Indent paragraphs.
4. Copying and moving sections of the document to different locations in the document.
5. Include graphics (graphic files of .bmp, .wmf, or .wpg types) into a document.
6. Printer must be capable of clearly printing font features such as bold, underline, italics, graphic images, etc. and software must be able to produce these font and graphic features.

Illustrated Talk

A 10 to 12 minute talk will be required of each contestant. An actual computer can be used in this presentation if done in a manner the audience and judges are able to see the material presented. Charts or enlarged diagrams may be used as visual aids, including electronic projectors (slides, LCD, video, etc.). This visual presentation may include explanation of the proper care, maintenance, and functions of a computer, programming techniques, computer applications, special software, web and Internet topics, graphics or other related topics.

Participants must furnish their own demonstration materials and equipment or inquire at least one week in advance of the event for availability of the equipment. Visuals should be easily readable by the audience

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Contestant's Number _________________	Name: __________________________
	State ___________________________

Title of Presentation :

Items under the major divisions I, II, and III should be scored. Space under "Judges' Comments" is for additional scoring suggestions and ideas. Indicate scoring, compare scores, and decide on combined score and comments to be made. First place will be determined by high score. Time limit: 15 minutes maximum; 10 to 12 minutes preferred.

POINTS TO CONSIDER IN SCORING VISUAL PRESENTATION

I. The 4-H Member (20 points)

1. Appearance Neat appropriate dress, good posture. Is the 4-Her well groomed? Is the clothing he is wearing suitable for the task he is performing?
2. Voice Distinct, forceful, yet natural. Is the 4-Her's voice clear with distinct enunciation, and reasonably strong? Is he enthusiastic?
3. Poise Calm, pleasant, confident. Does the 4-Her keep his composure even when something appears to go wrong or does go wrong? Does he have self-assurance, yet a pleasant manner?
4. Grammar Correct, well chosen words. Does he use correct grammar and has he chosen words that make the meaning clear?

II. Presentation (35 points)

1. Introduction Effective, interesting. This is an explanation of the presentation not an introduction of the 4-Her. Does it get the attention of the audience?
2. Appropriate Method Did the 4-Her choose a demonstration when an illustrated talk would have enabled him to do a better job?
3. Verbal Presentation Steps, illustrative material, and explanation coordinated. Does the 4-Her talk about what he is showing and explain the procedure? If information given is to fill time during the process, is it related to what is being shown?
4. Teaching Aids Equipment, models, charts, and supplies effective and well arranged. Did the 4-Her choose the teaching aid that would best tell the story? Were the charts and models neat, concise, and appropriate?
5. Organization Presentation well organized, steps clear and logical, not memorized. Is evidence shown that the 4-Her has planned his presentation?
6. Audience View Are aids large enough for audience to see? Does the 4-Her keep space in front of him open so that audience can see what he is doing?
7. Summary Are key points summarized?

III. Subject Matter (45 points)

 
 

Contestant's Number ____________	Name: _________________
	State: __________________