MIDDLE SCHOOL CTE PROGRAMS

Gateway: Computer Science/App Creator (7th & 8th grade)

In Computer Science Innovators and Makers students discover computer science concepts and skills by creating projects that include computer programming blended with the creation of a physical product. Students will program using Microsoft MakeCode and have their code interact with the physical world using micro:bits. App Creators introduces students to the field of computer science and the concepts of computational thinking, through the creation of mobile apps. Students are challenged to be creative and innovative, as they collaboratively design and develop mobile solutions to engaging, authentic problems. Students experience the positive impact of the application of computer science to society. Teams identify a personal or community problem of interest to them that can be solved with a mobile app solution.

Fundamentals of Computer Science 

(7th & 8th grade - High School Credit 1.0)

Using Gateway Computer Science and App Creator modules, Fundamentals of Computer Science will explore a variety of programming languages and concepts that will prepare students for the computer science programs of study in high school. Students will foster their creativity and innovation through opportunities to design, implement, and present solutions to real-world problems. Students demonstrate their skills as they build their own websites, apps, animations, games, and physical computing systems. The PLTW Gateway modules will cover topics such as problem solving, critical thinking, and physical computing.

Students successfully completing Fundamentals of Computer Science at middle school will receive one high school elective credit toward the Computer Science Program of Study within the STEM Endorsement but the course grades will be excluded from the student’s high school grade point average (GPA).