Python / Java

Recommended Curricula that use Python / Java

The programming language Python "allows the concepts of computational thinking to take precedence over tricky language idiosyncrasies" and code "revision and testing take less time" (Taggert, 2015).

Python is generally used as the programming language with most of the high school curriculum providers listed below. Java, while an older language, is well established and is the only approved language for AP CS A and therefore used in this course. Additionally, the following is the recommended sequence when building out a robust CS program: 1. Intro to Programming, 2. AP CS Principles, 3. AP CS A, and 4. Advanced CS topic, CS Capstone, internship, etc.

Watch the video to learn why Python is recommended as the first programming language.
Complete the introductory "Hello, World!" practice activity either using the PYTHON Hands-on Online exercises and/or JAVA Hands-on Online exercises.
Review and select one of the curricula listed below.

Note: Each of the following curriculum providers offer various CS courses ranging from introductory focusing on the basic concepts of the text-based programming to AP CS A and others. When selecting, consider how you want to teach (self-taught in a LMS or instructor-led), cost and support. If TEALS is available in your area, it is highly recommended due to their tremendous teacher support and coaching.

Instructions: Review and select high school CS curriculum providers from the following that use the Python and Java programming languages for use in your class or school.

Carnegie Mellon CS Academy https://academy.cs.cmu.edu/about

Courses: Intro to Programming and CS, AP CS Principles
Cost: No Cost
Additional Details: This is a new program currently being piloted in schools and can be implemented with support from TEALS.

Code.org https://code.org/educate/curriculum/high-school

Courses: CS Discoveries (can also be taught in grades 6-8), AP CS Principles*
Cost: No Cost however teacher professional development is offered as a surcharge
Additional Details: The AP CSP course can also be facilitated through TEALS mentors

CodeCombat: https://codecombat.com/teachers/resources

Courses: Intro to CS 1-5, AP CS Principles*, Web Design, Game Design
Cost: There is a cost per course, however this is not published on their web site
Additional Details: Programming is taught in a game-based learning approach

CodeHS: https://codehs.com/info/curriculum/pathways/hs

Courses: Intro to CS in JavaScript, Intro to CS in Python, AP CS Principles*, AP CS A
Cost: $2,000 - $3,000 per course per class; Teach PD is additional
Additional Details: Curriculum is taught within a LMS and is entirely online; Code HS offers additional advanced courses like Video Game Design

Edhesive: https://edhesive.com/

Courses: Introduction to CS, AP CS Principles*, and AP CS A
Cost: ~$2,500 per school however Amazon's Future Engineer program offers grants to assist with costs
Additional Details: Curriculum is taught within a LMS and is entirely online

Microsoft Philanthropies TEALS: http://www.tealsk12.org/schools/

Courses: Introduction to CS Semester 1 (block-based), Introduction to CS Semester 2, and AP CS A
Cost: No cost; TEALS identifies industry mentors who support a school implementation at various levels
Additional Details: Some geographic limitations; Application periods each year.

Project Lead the Way: https://www.pltw.org/our-programs/pltw-computer-science-curriculum

Courses: CS Essentials, AP CS Principles*, AP CS A, and Cybersecurity
Cost: ~$2,000/school plus additional funds for teacher professional development
Additional Details: PLTW is a national recognized engineering program

* Curriculum for AP CSP with an asterisk have been formally endorsed by the College Board. All other programs should be submitted for authorization to the College Board by the school prior to teaching.

References

Taggert, M. (2015, September 4). Bringing Python into the classroom. Opensource.com. Retrieved from https://opensource.com/education/15/9/python-in-the-classroom

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