Using Email — WJEC Vocational Digital Skills & IT

The WJEC Level 1 Award for IT Users (ITQ) is a vocationally-related qualification that assesses practical digital skills across word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and safe internet use. It focuses on real-world application, requiring students to demonstrate competence in using IT tools to complete tasks efficiently and safely.

The WJEC Level 1 Award for IT Users (ITQ) is designed to equip students with essential digital skills needed in the modern workplace. It covers a range of IT applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and using the internet safely. The qualification is practical, meaning you are assessed on your ability to complete real-world tasks, such as creating documents, analysing data, and communicating online.

This qualification is important because it provides a foundation for further study and employment. In today's digital age, employers expect basic IT proficiency, and this award demonstrates that you can use common software tools effectively. It also helps you develop problem-solving and organisational skills, as you learn to plan and execute IT tasks efficiently.

The course is structured around units that reflect everyday IT use. You will learn how to create professional documents, manage data in spreadsheets, and understand the importance of staying safe online. By the end of the course, you will have a portfolio of evidence showing your competence, which can be used in job applications or to progress to higher-level qualifications.

• →File management: saving, naming, and organising files in folders.
• →Word processing: creating, editing, and formatting text documents.
• →Spreadsheets: using cells, formulas, and functions to manage data.
• →Databases: understanding records, fields, and how to search for information.
• →Online safety: protecting personal data and recognising phishing or scams.

• Award credit for using a clear and descriptive subject line that reflects the email content.
• Award credit for using a professional tone and appropriate layout, including salutation and closing.
• Award credit for correctly attaching files and noting any size or format restrictions.
• Award credit for demonstrating the use of contacts and distribution lists when sending to groups.
• Award credit for creating folders and applying flags or categories to manage incoming emails effectively.
• Award credit for setting up filters or rules that automatically sort incoming emails into appropriate folders.
• Award credit for correctly identifying suspicious emails and taking appropriate action, such as deleting or reporting them.

• 💡Practice composing emails with clear subject lines and professional tone in various scenarios.
• 💡Familiarise yourself with your email client's features for attachments, contacts, and folders.
• 💡Learn to create and use distribution lists to streamline group communication.
• 💡Understand how to set up filters and rules to automate email management.
• 💡Stay vigilant about email security; always verify sender details and avoid clicking on suspicious links.
• 💡Always read the task instructions carefully and highlight key requirements such as file names, formats, and specific features to use.
• 💡Practice using keyboard shortcuts (e.g., Ctrl+S to save, Ctrl+C to copy) to save time during practical assessments.
• 💡Double-check your work before submitting, especially spelling, formulas, and file saving locations.

• Using vague or missing subject lines, leading to unclear email purpose.
• Attaching files that exceed size limits or using incompatible formats without checking.
• Sending emails to individuals instead of using distribution lists for group communication.
• Failing to organise emails, resulting in cluttered inboxes and missed tasks.
• Ignoring email security, such as clicking on links in suspicious emails or not reporting phishing attempts.
• Misconception: 'I can just type a document without formatting it.' Correction: Formatting is essential for readability and professionalism; you must use styles, fonts, and alignment appropriately.
• Misconception: 'Spreadsheets are just for calculations, not for organising data.' Correction: Spreadsheets are also used for sorting, filtering, and presenting data visually with charts.
• Misconception: 'It's okay to share my password with a friend.' Correction: Passwords are personal and should never be shared; this compromises security.

1. 1Week 1: Focus on word processing – practice creating and formatting documents, using bullet points, tables, and images.
2. 2Week 2: Move to spreadsheets – learn to enter data, use basic formulas (SUM, AVERAGE), and create simple charts.
3. 3Week 3: Explore databases and online safety – understand how to search a database and identify secure websites.
4. 4Week 4: Complete practice tasks under timed conditions to simulate the exam environment.
5. 5Week 5: Review your work, identify weak areas, and revisit those topics.

• 📋Practical tasks: You will be given a scenario and asked to produce a document, spreadsheet, or database. Advice: Read the scenario carefully and ensure you meet all requirements.
• 📋Multiple-choice questions: These test your knowledge of IT concepts. Advice: Eliminate obviously wrong answers and choose the best option.
• 📋Short-answer questions: You may be asked to explain a process or define a term. Advice: Use correct terminology and be concise.
• 📋Scenario-based questions: You might be asked to solve a problem using IT, such as planning a budget. Advice: Show your working and explain your choices.

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