Technology, Engineering, and Business

Introduction to Computer Science and Coding

Course #: IT133   Grades: 9-12   Credits: .5   Length: Semester   Expectation Level: 3

Prerequisite: None

A highly interactive and collaborative introduction to digital citizenship, the field of computer science, and coding including the use of variables, conditionals, and functions. Students will participate in hands-on projects, coding, and problem solving. This will be accomplished using the design process to produce short computer programs, to produce simple apps, games, and programs for robots.

Text and materials: laptop, notebook, pocket folder

Expectations: Students should be at ease with a computer and working in groups. The class is project-based, and students are expected to complete projects on given topics. There are also related assignments, primarily classroom-based.

Computer Science/Coding II 

Course #: IT233   Grades: 9-12   Credits: .5   Length: Semester   Expectation Level: 3

Prerequisite: Introduction to Computer Science and Coding

In Computer Science/Coding II, students will expand their coding knowledge. This will be accomplished by exploring how lists, loops, traversals, parameters, returns, and libraries allow for the design of increasingly complex apps. Students will also learn how data analysis helps turn raw data into useful information about the world. These skills will be demonstrated by creating a more complex app that can be used on smartphones. This course may be used as preparation for AP Computer Science.

Text and materials: Laptop, notebook, pocket folder

Expectations:  Students must have successfully completed intro to computer science and coding. The class is project-based, and students are expected to complete projects on given topics. There are also related assignments, primarily classroom-based.

Honors Computer Programming A

Course #: SI243   Grades: 10-12   Credits: 1   Length: 1 Year   Expectation Level: 4 

Prerequisite: Introduction to CS and Coding; strong math knowledge

Honors Computer Programming is a fast-paced course in Java programming. Students learn about the exciting kinds of problems tackled by computer science while exploring the field’s most important tool: Programming. The focus is on the logic of writing programs and the structures of building them. Throughout the course students study common reusable algorithms and learn to analyze them for correctness and speed.

The course covers fundamentals of programming syntax and methodology using the Java programming language. Java is a modern, object-oriented programming language used to create professional software. In addition to gaining fluency in Java, students develop general computer skills and consider the social and ethical implications of computing.

This course follows along with the AP Computer Programming curriculum but at a modified pace.

Text and materials: Online Textbook (eIMACS)

Expectations: Students will get a blend of direct instruction as well as frequent independent learning opportunities.  This class covers most of the same material as AP Computer Programming, but at a slower pace. Outside assignments will be given and class time will be used for discussion, lessons and collaboration.

AP Computer Programming A

Course #: SI150   Grades: 11,12   Credits: 1   Length: 1 Year   Expectation Level: 5

Prerequisite: Introduction to CS and Coding and Algebra II-4

This is a fast-paced course equivalent to a college introductory programming class. The course covers fundamentals of programming syntax and methodology using the Java programming language. Java is a modern, object-oriented programming language used to create professional software. In addition to gaining fluency in Java, students develop general computer skills and consider the social and ethical implications of computing.

This class is for motivated and independent learners. Students follow an online curriculum at their own pace, but with clear minimum goals to reach for each quarter. Students are expected to work two to four hours each week outside of class in order to meet benchmarks. Strong students can work ahead significantly. Students taking AP Computer Science will be expected to take the AP Exam in May.

Text and materials: Online Textbook (eIMACS)

Expectations: Students are expected to maintain a rigorous pace, clearly delineated from the onset. Students spend time outside of class reading, taking notes and completing exercises. 3-4 hours per week is standard. Class time is to be used completing activities, tests and labs. Collaboration in class is expected. Students are expected to take the AP exam in May. 

Introduction to Engineering Design

Course #: SI345   Grades: 9-12   Credits: .5   Length: Semester   Expectation Level: 3

Prerequisite: None

Introduction to Engineering Design is intended to give students an overview of engineering. Students explore what it means to be an engineer, what engineering is, and how to do engineering. Students study engineering career options, the engineering method and design process, written and oral communication, interpersonal skills, team-building, and technical drawing. Both in teams and individually, students face a series of engineering challenges all involving science content. Upon completion, students should be able to understand the engineering process and profession.

Text and materials: Engineering the Future, It's About Time; calculator

Expectations: Students are expected to work diligently in class, and a minimum of two hours per week of homework and study time should be expected. Students should expect to utilize high school level math and science principles on a regular basis in this class.

Projects in Civil and Mechanical Engineering

Course #: IT235    Grades: 10-12   Credits: .5   Length: Semester   Expectation Level: 3

Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design

Projects in Civil and Mechanical Engineering is a project-based class where students will learn about the design, construction, and maintenance of mechanical systems and man-made infrastructure. Students will take on the role of mechanical engineers as they discover how to put machines to work for people, applying the principles of motion, energy, and force to anything that moves. They will also act as civil engineers who are responsible for public works such as roads, bridges, structural components of buildings, dams, pipelines, and airports. Students will develop an in-depth understanding of materials, which both engineering disciplines use to calculate failure conditions based on the dimensions of a part, the properties of its material and the conditions under which it will operate. 

Text and materials: Engineering the Future; students will also be required to maintain an engineering notebook/binder

Expectations: Students are expected to work diligently in class, and a minimum of two hours per week of homework and study time should be expected. Students should expect to utilize high school level math and science principles on a regular basis in this class. 

Introduction to Robotics  

Course #: IT160    Grades: 9-12   Credits: .5   Length: Semester   Expectation Level: 3  

Prerequisite: None

Introduction to Robotics is an entry-level class that includes simple building, coding, and sensor use to activate robots. Students will be utilizing the design process to solve challenges and accomplish goals, as well as programming sensors and brains to automate the robots. In addition, students will explore the impacts of robotics and artificial intelligence on today's society.

Text and materials: school-issued laptop

Expectations: Students should be at ease with computers and collaborative work. The class is project-based, and students are expected to complete projects on given topics. There are also related assignments, primarily classroom-based. 

VEX Robotics

Course #: SI134   Grades: 9-12   Credits: .5   Length: Semester   Expectation Level: 3/4

Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design or Computer Science/Coding II

VEX Robotics students will work with VEX robotics equipment to gain skills and knowledge about structural, motion, and power systems in robots. Students will have the opportunity to build, test, and modify multiple robots to meet the requirements for tasks assigned to them. After building the robots, students will use C++, and/or Python programming software to program motion control devices, such as motors and sensors.

Text and materials: School-issued laptop

Expectations: Students are expected to build a working robot, and then learn coding to automate the robot to meet specific skills and challenges.

Introduction to Business

Course #: IT331   Grades: 9-12   Credits: .5   Length: Semester   Expectation Level: 3

Prerequisite: None

Introduction to Business is targeted at students who plan to study business in college and/or aspire to becoming business-owners in the future. Focusing on activities of the business world and the economic system in which it operates, concepts/topics include business ownership, advertising/marketing, product development, and the economy. Students learn the essentials of starting a business; skills developed include collaboration, communication, problem-solving, and presentation. Students have the opportunity to assist with day-to-day operations and functions of running the school store.

Text and materials: None

Expectations: Students will engage in a project based course utilizing an online simulation and various related assignments. Students should expect to utilize high school level math and the successful completion of Algebra I is recommended. 

Sports and Entertainment Marketing  

Course #: IT332   Grades: 9-12   Credits: .5   Length: Semester   Expectation Level: 3  

Prerequisite: Introduction to Business

Offering insight into one of the most popular fields in business today, Sports and Entertainment Marketing is for students interested in sports, entertainment, and event marketing. Emphasis is on the principles of endorsements, branding, and naming rights as they apply to the industry. Students learn about the requirements of creating a successful brand or product and establishing target markets. This is a project-based course utilizing marketing simulations, projects, and teamwork.

Text and materials: None

Expectations: Students will engage in a project based course utilizing  an online simulation and various related assignments.