xii Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Prepare P for Your Future As you prepare for college and career, an important key to success will be the fundamentals and foundations of information technology. Understanding the basics of computing, applications, and online technology is the fi rst step toward personal success. By studying Principles of Information Technology, you will have an opportunity to learn about the three elements of IT and how to make them work for you. Practical information helps you prepare for your future. Special features add realism and interest to enhance learning. • Ethics offers insight into ethical issues with which you will be confronted in the workplace. • Green Tech illustrates the importance of respecting the environment in the workplace. • STEM illustrates the importance of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics skills in the workplace. It is all about getting ready for college and career. College and career readiness activities address literacy skills to help prepare you for the real world. • English/Language Arts standards for reading, writing, speaking, and listening are incorporated in Reading Prep activities as well as in end-of-chapter applications. • Career Skills features present information about potential career opportunities in the Information Technology career cluster. By studying these, you can explore career possibilities for your future. • Portfolio Development activities provide guidance to create a personal portfolio for use when exploring volunteer, education and training, and career opportunities.