Computer Science

Students in grades K-2 can engage in coding, physical computing, and fabrication to enhance Computer Science Fundamentals, Courses A-C. Students learn computer science concepts and complete code quests, learn to be good digital citizens, engage in Computer Aided Design and 3D printing, and create games and animations. 

Tools and Resources Used: Strawbees STEAM Kits, Ozobots, 3D Printing, Circuit Playground Express, Micro:bits 

Introduction to Computer Science 2, allows students to further explore computer science concepts while exposing them to new careers and STEAM skills. Students will engage in coding/programming, physical computing, and fabrication while being challenged to think about how to incorporate these skills into engineering design.  

Coding Fundamentals 1 gives students an introduction to Physical Computing that guides students to explore fundamental CS concepts by programming with the micro:bit, a simple programmable computer device. Each unit of the course guides students through the learning process with three practices: analyzing computer applications, prototyping a project that reflects the result of their analysis, and communicating about their projects. Projects are based on teaching students to think computationally: to decompose problems, abstract and modularize, reuse and remix existing solutions, and to test fully to arrive at a working solution. Students that complete Coding Fundamentals 1 will be prepared to take the Programming and Logic Essentials Digital Tool Certification. 

Students enrolled in Coding Fundamentals 2 should have completed Coding Fundamentals 1. Students should have the basics of the Microsoft Make Code editor and the sensors on a Micro:bit. Students will apply concepts learned in Coding Fundamentals to the Makecode Arcade platform. This is the main game programming platform, which simplifies the complex internal logic into the form of building blocks, making it easy to understand. As long as students can understand the meaning of each block, they can easily get started with the game programming platform. The platform supports building blocks to code, other supported languages ​​are Javascript and Python. On the Arcade platform, students create advanced games with maturity of programming skills through step-by-step programming. Students will be prepared to earn the Gaming Essentials Digital Tool at the completion of this course

Computer Science Discoveries 1 introduces students to computer science as a vehicle for problem solving, communication, and creative computing.  The course focuses on the visual programming/coding, game creation, CAD design and 3D printing and physical computing.  This course encourages students to see where computer science exists around them and how they can engage with it as a tool for exploration and expression.  It supports their development as computational thinkers – individuals who can draw on computational concepts, practices, and perspectives in all aspects of their lives, across disciplines and contexts. Students will be prepared to take the Coding In Minecraft Digital Tool Certification Exam at the end of this course. 

Computer Science Discoveries 2 focuses on Computing Essentials, Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence and physical computing.  This creative computing emphasizes the knowledge, practices, and fundamental literacies that young people need to create the types of dynamic and interactive computational media that they enjoy in their daily lives. Engaging in the creation of computational artifacts prepares students for more than careers as computer scientists or programmers. It supports their development as computational thinkers – individuals who can draw on computational concepts, practices, and perspectives in all aspects of their lives, across disciplines and contexts. Students will gain knowledge to take the ICT Essentials: Cyber Security Tools Certification.

Computer Science Discoveries is an introductory computer science course for 6th - 10th grade students. This course takes a wide lens on computer science by covering topics such as problem solving, programming, physical computing, user-centered design, and data, while inspiring students as they build their own websites, apps, animations, games, and physical computing systems. 

This course teaches algebraic and geometric concepts through computer programming, physical computing, and fabrication. The lessons focus on concepts like order of operations, the Cartesian plane, function composition and definition, and solving problems - all within the context of Math and Computer Science. By shifting classwork from abstract pencil-and-paper problems to a series of relevant programming problems, engineering, and manufacturing, students can see how algebra applies in the real world, using an exciting, hands-on approach. 

Computing affects almost all aspects of modern life, and all students deserve an education that prepares them to pursue the wide array of intellectual and career opportunities that computing has made possible. This course seeks to provide foundational knowledge and skills to meaningfully participate in our increasingly digital society, economy, and culture. 

AP Computer Science A is an introductory college-level computer science course. Students cultivate their understanding of coding through analyzing, writing, and testing code as they explore concepts like modularity, variables, and control structures. 

Cambridge International AS & A Level Computer Science encourages learners to meet the needs of higher education courses in computer science as well as twenty-first century digital employers. It encourages leaders to think creatively, through applying practical programming solutions, demonstrating that they are effective uses of technology. 

Learners develop computational thinking & programming skills to solve computer science problems. Cambridge International AS and A Level Computer Science will help learners develop a range of skills such as thinking creatively, analytically, logically and critically. They will also be able to appreciate the ethical issues that arise with current and emerging computing technologies.