Computer Science Academy

The Computer Science Academy at Christopher High School welcomes incoming 9th graders for 2021/22! Our CS Academy provides 4 years of preparatory classes with hands-on opportunities to learn computer science skills using curriculum developed by Project Lead The Way (PLTW). If you like solving puzzles, you sound perfect for our program!

With each passing day, it becomes more difficult to name something that computer science doesn't touch. No matter if we're flying cross-country, using mobile apps to manage our daily lives, or perching on the edges of our seats at a movie theater, we're surrounded by computer science. At a time when computer science affects how we work and live, the CS Academy empowers students in grades 9-12 to become creators of the technology all around them.

As students work together to design solutions, they learn computational thinking ‒ not just how to code ‒ and transform themselves into builders of tech. The CS Academy's series of courses empowers students with in-demand knowledge and skills they will use in high school and for the rest of their lives, on any career path they take.

Please contact Mrs. Berggren if you or your parents have any questions.

Computer Science Academy Pathway Courses

9th: Computer Science Essentials

10th: AP Computer Science Principles (weighted)

11th: Cybersecurity

12th: AP Computer Science A (weighted & capstone)

See bottom of webpage for course outlines.

What does it mean to be in the CS Academy?

Priority automatic enrollment in pathway courses
STEM Premier portfolio
AP+PLTW recognition
- 2 AP classes built into the program
Other student opportunities
PLTW Scholar recognition at graduation

The Computer Science Academy is a rigorous program in high demand and students must submit an application to be considered. In addition to the items in the application, students must be in the eighth grade, students must have a 2.50 or better GPA, and successfully promote from middle school; incoming transcripts will be pulled for each student. Please complete the application you receive in the mail and submit it with your essay and 2 sealed teacher recommendations. *Students may request an intradistrict transfer to CHS

Applications must include these three parts:

Application/contract: Complete and sign the application/contract and have it signed by parent/guardian.
2 recommendations from current teachers, one must be from a science or math teacher.
Writing sample required for entry into the program, must be handwritten:
- Essay Prompt: In 300-500 words, please explain why you would like to enter the CHS CS Academy.
  - Include your interest in computer science and technology.

You may scan and email them to Mrs. Berggren, attach them to your articulation card and return to your counselor, or you can drop them off at the CHS front office.

Note: the recommendations must arrive in sealed envelopes, or teachers may email them to Mrs. Berggren

The deadline is February 26, 2021.

Computer Science Academy Course Sequencing

Freshman Year:

Computer Science Essentials

English I or Honors English I

Math I or Math I+

PE Course I

Foreign Language I

Biology or Honors Biology

Computer Science Essentials - 9th

With emphasis on computational thinking and collaboration, CS Essentials provides an excellent entry point for students to begin the PLTW Computer Science K-12 experience. CS Essentials will expose students to a diverse set of computational thinking concepts, fundamentals, and tools, allowing them to gain understanding and build confidence. Students will use visual, block-based programming and transition to text-based programming with languages such as Python. They'll apply computational thinking practices, build their vocabulary, and collaborate just as computing professionals do to create products that address topics and problems important to them. CS Essentials helps students create a strong foundation to advance to the next levels in the Computer Science Academy.

Sophomore Year:

Computer Science Principles (AP)

English II or Honors English II

Math II or Math II+

PE Course II (zero Period)

Foreign Language II

World History/ AP World History

Chemistry/ Honors Chemistry

AP Computer Science Principles - 10th

Using Python as a primary tool, students explore and become inspired by career paths that utilize computing, discover tools that foster creativity and collaboration, and use what they've learned to tackle challenges like app development and simulation. Using a project-based curriculum, students will collaboratively learn the seven big ideas of computer science: Creativity, Abstraction, Data and Information, Algorithms, Programming, The Internet, and Global Impact.

Throughout the year students will develop programs and research projects to prepare them for the Artifacts to submit to their Digital Portfolio as part of the AP Exam which will earn college credit.

Junior Year:

Cybersecurity

English III or AP English Language

Math III or Math III+

Foreign Language III

US History or AP US History

Physics or AP Physics

Cybersecurity - 11th

Introduces the tools and concepts of cybersecurity and encourages students to create solutions that allow people to share computing resources while protecting privacy. In Cybersecurity, students solve problems by understanding and closing the vulnerabilities in computational resources. This course raises students' knowledge of and commitment to ethical computing behavior. It also aims to develop students' skills as consumers, friends, citizens, and employees who can effectively contribute to communities with a dependable cyber-infrastructure that moves and processes information safely.

Senior Year:

Computer Science A (AP)

English IV / AP English Literature

Trig, AP Calc, AP Stats

Gov - Econ

Design Elective

Other Elective - Fine Art

AP Computer Science A - 12th

CS A is an advanced course in computer science building on the basic skill learned in CS Principles to teach students authentic Android app development in Java. Students complete activities and projects aligned with the College Board requirements then collaborate to create original solutions to problems of their own choosing by designing and implementing user interfaces and Web-based databases, as well as creating a game for their friends or an app to serve a real need in their community. The course aims to fully develop Object Oriented Programming skills and will require consummate engagements with the material for success.

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