Lab Assignment #3: Database
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Sample Database Assignments
RUBRIC

Resources:
Statistics Canada and E-STAT
US Census Bureau
United Nations Cyber School Bus
United Nations Monthly Bulletin of Statistics

Weight: 10%
Late assignments will be penalized 5% per day.

Introduction

One of the most powerful applications of computers is the capability to store, organize, and retrieve large quantities of data. An organized collection of data is referred to as a database.

The purpose of a database is to make large amounts of information easier to understand by giving the user the ability to sort, organize and retrieve information as needed.

Databases do not necessarily require the use of a computer. You probably already maintain several databases without even knowing it! Any time you keep track of information with some type of organized system, you are managing a database.

Assignment

1. Create an activity (series of questions) that would require students to create and use a database. The students would either collect their own data or import it from an existing database such as E-STAT. The inquiry, problem solving and/or decision making activity would have students investigate the data by looking for patterns and relationships
   
   
   • Identify the curricular goals this activity will address.

   Write a brief description of the activity (1-2 paragraphs).

   • Discuss how technology enhances this activity (1 paragraph).
   
   
   
   
2. Provide a sample of the product(s) that students would be expected to create in your lesson/activity. Incorporate as many features of a database as possible. For example:*15-25 records
   

• 15-25 records
• 3-6 fields in each record
• different data types in the fields
• formatting options such as the text, date and time, graphics, borders, etc.
• data input form with pop-up lists or something similar
• define relationship between two tables
• combine data from two tables
• a macro

3. Submit a hard copy of the lesson plan and email a copy of your 'student sample' as an attachment to your teaching assistant.

NOTE: Statistics Canada offers an annual $500 cash prize for the best curriculum project that utilizes the Statistics Canada website.You can read the details at: http://www.statcan.ca/english/liaison/index.htm

Last Updated 9/09/02