Tech - Ninth

Computer Science

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER PROGRAMMING (597)

Grades (9-12):  Level 2

(Semester) .5 credits


Introduction to Computer Programming is designed to introduce students to the breadth of the field of computer science through an exploration of engaging and accessible topics. Rather than focusing the entire course on learning particular software tools or programming languages, the course is designed to focus the conceptual ideas of computing and help students understand why certain tools or languages might be utilized to solve particular problems. 


The goal of Introduction to Computer Programming is to develop in students the computational thinking practices of algorithm development, problem solving and programming within the context of problems that are relevant to the lives of today’s students. Students will also be introduced to topics such as interface design, limits of computers as well as societal and ethical issues.


Instructional units will include Human Computer Interaction, Problem Solving, Web Design, App design,  Computing and Data Analysis, Robotics, Interface Design, Societal and Ethical Issues.

HONORS COMPUTER SCIENCE (529)

Grades 9-12: Honors

(Semester) .75 credits

Prerequisite:  None but it is suggested that students take Introduction to Programming


Honors Computer Science is offered to students who are motivated and interested in learning how to program. The course is designed to develop and enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills through hands-on programming projects. Students will be taught the fundamentals of programming, or the basic building blocks found in all languages. Students will be exposed to and learn several programming languages, ranging from web-based, interpreted languages to full, compiled application development. Additionally, the students will learn how to use several industry standard software development packages.


Students planning a career in computer science, engineering, information systems, mathematics, science and business will greatly benefit from taking this course.


Topics include:


This course is suggested for Advanced Placement Computer Science and Competition Robotics.

Graphic Design

GRAPHIC DESIGN I (503)

(9-12):  Level 2

(Semester) .5 credits


Graphic Design is the study and creation of visual communication. This course will study visual perception through the use of color, design and typography. Through the use of the industry standard Adobe Creative Suite students will learn several skills in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Students will explore the theories of graphic design while designing and producing several real world projects. Projects include image manipulation and collaging, visual messaging through text and logo design. All students will be required to maintain a digital portfolio where they can store and showcase their work. 


Please note that this is an art course that will require time and commitment from everyone in the classroom and at home. Creating sketches and designing is the core of this course, that being said - words and shapes thrown onto a computer screen/sketchbook is not a thought out design and you will not receive credit for those assignments.


Sketchbooks are encouraged for this course. In your sketchbook you will keep class notes, brainstorm ideas, collect examples and lay out projects. Sketches should be well thought out drawings that take place before you turn to the computer. Please try to date each page as best you can. Doodling in your sketchbook is acceptable and encouraged! You can use a physical sketchbook, or make your notes digitally. 

GRAPHIC DESIGN II (504)

Grades 9-12:  Level 2

(Semester) .5 credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Graphic Design I


Graphic Design is the study and creation of visual communication. This course will continue to study visual perception through the use of color, design and typography. Through the use of the industry standard Adobe Creative Suite students will expanding their working knowledge in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, as well as being introduced to the publishing and layout software InDesign. Students will explore the theories of graphic design while designing and producing several real world projects. Projects include advanced image manipulation, digital illustration and cartooning, and design layout. All students will be required to maintain a digital portfolio where they can store and showcase their work. 


Please note that this is an art course that will require time and commitment from everyone in the classroom and at home. Creating sketches and designing is the core of this course, that being said - words and shapes thrown onto a computer screen/sketchbook is not a thought out design and you will not receive credit for those assignments.


Sketchbooks are encouraged for this course. In your sketchbook you will keep class notes, brainstorm ideas, collect examples and lay out projects. Sketches should be well thought out drawings that take place before you turn to the computer. Please try to date each page as best you can. Doodling in your sketchbook is acceptable and encouraged! You can use a physical sketchbook, or make your notes digitally. 

WEB DESIGN I  (519) 

Grades 9-12:  Level 2

(Semester) .5 credits



This course is offered to expand and enrich the student’s education using state-of-the-art technologies. Learning will be collaborative, hands-on and project based. Problem solving, organizational skills, creativity, and a positive attitude toward technology are key components to the students’ success in this course.  Projects will involve creating, publishing, and evaluating web sites that adhere to web standards. Key elements of web authoring—site design, tables, creating and maintaining hyperlinks, graphics manipulation (including editing of images), interactive features, and site management—will be the core topics in this course.  


Each student must: 

Robotics

ROBOTICS  (522)

Grades 9-12:  Level 2

(Semester)  .5 credits


This hands-on course is designed to introduce students to the world of mechanical engineering and programming through an exploration of robotics. Students will engage in activities through hands-on projects. Successful completion of this course includes inquiry on past and present robots, researching the engineering design process, understanding fundamental engineering theories, studying the IPO model, examining basic robotic concepts, and constructing functional prototypes.

PROTOTYPING  (508)

Grades 9-12:  Level 2

(Semester)  .75 credits

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Robotics and Intro to Computer Programming


This hands-on course is designed to increase knowledge and skills in mechanical engineering and programming through robotics. Students will engage in activities through hands-on projects. Successful completion of this course includes analyzing present and emerging robots, understanding the engineering design process, utilizing the IPO model, applying engineering theories and basic circuitry concepts, formulating relevant programming, and constructing original prototypes to meet specific criteria.