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Tech Integration Project
Lesson Accelerator: Project Overview

My Book Tracker
Software Type: Database
The example project created in this Lesson Accelerator addresses NETS Performance Indicators for middle grades as used in a(n) Language Arts curriculum. It could also be used with older learners or adapted for lower grades. See the section on Extending and Adapting at the bottom of this page for ideas on how to use this same project for different subjects, grades, and skill levels.
Project Launchers
Lesson Accelerator Project Launcher pages contain video tutorials that show you, step-by-step, how to create this project using specific software applications, as well as a movie showing you what the finished project looks like. They also provide a download of all the example files used in the project, so you can recreate it.
When you've reviewed all the information on this page and would like to go to a Project Launcher, click the application name below that corresponds to the one you'd like to use for the project.
Go to: FileMaker Pro 7 (Mac) - Project Launcher
Go to: FileMaker Pro 7 (PC) - Project Launcher
Description
Students can create their own Book Tracker database, work in small groups or create the database as a class project. Each record will contain information about the book that was read. Data fields such as the Title, Author, Genre, Summary, Rating, and Reviewer's name will be created. A field for a graphic of the Book cover can also be added. Databases allow you to view and enter data in different ways, so different layouts will be created for entering, viewing and print the Book Tracker lists. I script for exporting the data to a Master file will be created.
Goals
To provide students with the opportunity to create a database and manipulate the data in the database. Students can use their database to keep track of, rate and share a list of the books they have read.
Objectives
The student will be able to:
  • Students will be able to organize their data according to Genre, Author, Rating, etc.
  • Students will be able to build a simple database structure with at least 8 fields per record.
  • Students will be able to create a custom layout for presenting their data.
  • Students will be able to search and sort their data for comparisons among authors.
Preparation and Skill Mastery
Students should have basic computer skills and be familiar with basic database concepts, such as records and fields. If students are going to include a graphic into their data base they may need access to a scanner or a web site that sells books on-line. A standardized rating scale should also be discussed prior to creating the database.
Materials
  • Database Software.
  • Access to web sites such as "Amazon" or "Barnes and Noble" for Book cover graphics.
  • Access to printers, if a final product will be printed.
  • Access to a scanner.
Task List
The tasks to be completed for this project include:
  • Create a database in FileMaker Pro.
  • Add new field types to the database.
  • Format the main layout.
  • Create new records and enter data into the fields.
  • Create and format custom layouts to present the data.
  • Sorting the data sets on specific criteria.
  • Create Print and Export scripts.
Assessment
Assessment can be based on the following:
  • Have the proper fields been created?
  • Can the student format the layout properly?
  • Can the student search and sort the database as instructed?
  • Has data been entered properly in the fields?
  • Can the information be printed and exported?
Extending or Adapting
Here are some possible ways that this lesson plan might be extended or adapted for different timeframes, grade levels, and skill/ability levels:
  • Add new fields, such as other books by the author, recommended reading list, etc.
  • Add additional layouts for viewijng the data.
  • Add a Web link to the Authors Web site.
  • Compile a "Must" reading list for the summer.
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