700 - Computer Science I - Foundations Course Description Grades: 9-12 Group: II Units: 0.5 This course is designed as a broad introduction to computer science. The project-based curriculum covers many of the basic concepts and problem-solving processes that are essential to the field while contextualizing the role of computers in modern society. Through the analysis of algorithms, exploration of digital electronics, and study of cybersecurity, students learn the fundamentals of program development. Block programming languages such as Snap and professional languages such as Arduino and Python provide the platforms for creating games, building physical artifacts, and developing encryption programs. This course is useful to all students new to programming: those who wish to better understand how computers work; those interested in computer science as it applies to other fields; and those who want to pursue computer science in college and beyond.
Essential Questions 1. How is logic used in design? 2. How can computing and the use of logic foster creative expression? 3. How does abstraction help us to write programs, create computational artifacts and solve problems? 4. How can computation be used to facilitate exploration and discover when working with data? 5. How is data stored and processed by computer devices? 6. How is logical thinking reflected in programming? 7. What is the purpose of variables in programming? Assessment 1. Evaluation of individual progress and development of skills. 2. Project completion to meet or exceed expectations. 3. Problem solving and creative extension of assignments. 4. Productive use of time and ability to meet deadlines. 5. Persistence and attention to detail. 6. Willingness to explore, experiment, and learn through trial and error. 7. Ability to defend a position on a technological idea through a reflection document. 8. At the end of the semester students put together a culminating project in which they apply the design skills learned through the semester and demonstrate creative problem solving.