Computer Science

COMPUTER SCIENCE

60625W  COMPUTER SCIENCE DISCOVERIES

(Grade 9,10) (0.5 Elective Credit) 

(Prerequisite:  None)

An essential introduction to the world of Computer Science, covering core concepts from programming and data analysis to web development (HTML/CSS) and hands-on physical computing. This project-based course is designed to be fun and engaging, empowering students to use code for creativity and problem-solving. Students will build their own apps, games, websites, and simple robotics projects, gaining foundational skills that apply to every career field.  

40469W  INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES

(Grade 9,10,11,12) (0.5 Credit)

(Prerequisite:  None)

Introduction to Computer Programming is a course designed to introduce students to programming in a captivating manner while simultaneously building problem-solving skills and an understanding of the thinking methods used by programmers.  The course will teach students how to write their first programming language using JavaScript and Python languages. The course is predicated on the notion that learning about programming and computer science should be fun and engaging.  All units are project-based, and physical items, such as programmable robots, will be used to teach and apply the Python language.

40475W   INTRODUCTION TO CYBERSECURITY

(Grade 9,10,11,12) (0.5 Credit)

(Prerequisite:  None)

The Introduction to Cybersecurity course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the digital world. Students will dissect the inner workings of computer hardware and software, explore how networks connect, and master the fundamentals of encryption and cryptography. Crucially, they will learn to protect our increasingly digital world from unauthorized access, thereby ensuring data privacy and integrity. This foundational knowledge empowers students to effectively identify and defend against cybersecurity threats, equipping them to confidently navigate the ever-evolving landscape. 

40473W  COMPUTER PROGRAMMING USING C++

(Grade 10,11,12) (0.5 Credit)

(Prerequisite:  None)

Students will use the codehs.com curriculum to learn the fundamentals of programming in the C++ language.  The course begins with learning the basics of structured programming, including if…else, loops and functions.  The student will then move on to the concepts of object-oriented programming.  The student will learn to use ready-made classes to simplify work with strings, arrays, stacks and queries.  Students will demonstrate their achievement of the outcomes of the course through the completion of programs, projects, and tests.  Students will take the C++ final exam at the end of the course. 

40474W  COMPUTER PROGRAMMING USING JAVA

(Grade 10,11,12) (0.5 Elective Credit)

(Prerequisite:  Course 40473E)

Students will use the codehs.com curriculum to learn the essentials of the JAVA programming language.  The course begins with learning the basics of structured programming, including if …else, loops and functions.  The student will move on to the concepts of object-oriented programming.  The student will implement classes of software libraries.  The student will design classes that instantiate objects and call subroutines from parent programs.  Students will demonstrate their achievement of the outcomes of the course through the completion of programs, projects, and tests.  Students will take the Java final exam at the end of the course.

*40477H  ADVANCED PLACEMENT COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES 

(Grade 9,10,11,12) (1.0 Credit - May be taken for AP Computer Science Credit)

(Prerequisite:  Completion of CP Algebra 1 and/or successful completion of one or more of the following courses: CS Discoveries, Creating Mobile Apps, Business of Game Development, Introduction to Computer Programming, Computer Programming Using Java, Computer Programming Using C++, and Web Design)

AP Computer Science Principles introduces students to the core ideas of computer science.  It instills the ideas and practices of computational thinking and allows students to understand the ever-changing world of computing.  This course emphasizes the impact that advancements in computing have on society and goes beyond the study of machines and systems to give students the opportunity to investigate computing innovations that span many interests.  The AP Computer Science Principles course does not have a designated programming language, but will use programming languages that are most appropriate to use for specific activities.  Assessments will include quizzes, exams, practice exercises, individual and group projects, and a cumulative final exam.  This AP Course requires a Creative Task to be submitted to the College Board as well as a summative exam. .  Students will have the opportunity to register to take the AP Computer Science Principles Exam in May as well as complete the project based assessment that is critiqued by national guidelines.   

*40478H  ADVANCED PLACEMENT COMPUTER SCIENCE A 

(Grade 10,11,12) (1.0 Credit - May be taken for AP Computer Science Credit)

(Prerequisite:  Completion or concurrent enrollment in Algebra 2 and successful completion of one or more of the following courses: Advanced Placement Computer Science Principles, Computer Programming Using C++ or Java, Introduction to Computer Programming, Computer Science Discoveries, Creating Mobile Apps, Business of Game Development, and Web Design 1 or 2)

AP Computer Science A engages students in advanced topics of computer science.  This course emphasizes problem solving, design strategies, methodologies, organization of data, and approaches to processing data.  The course compares object-oriented programming with procedural programming.  AP Computer Science A is taught using specific packages in the Java Programming language namespace.  The current version of Eclipse or JDoodle website compilers will be used as the Java Integrated Development Environment (IDE).  Emphasis will be on the following structures: classes, interfaces, enumerations, and annotation types.  Java Applets will also be introduced.  Assessments will include quizzes, exams, practice exercise, individual and group projects, and a cumulative final exam.  Students will have the opportunity to register to take the AP Computer Science A Exam in May.

60627W  CREATING MOBILE APPS

(Grade 9,10,11,12) (0.5 Elective Credit)

(Prerequisite:  None)

This course is an introductory mobile application design and programming course where students will learn how to design an app’s user interface with the App Inventor Designer, and its behavior with the Blocks Editor.  Creating Mobile Apps also uses “drag-n-drop” programming and progresses to developing original apps.  Students will learn the components of a good app, color theory used in app design, and so much more such as image editing and story-boarding.  By the end of the course, students will be able to successfully demonstrate a self-created app with real world application. 

60628W  THE BUSINESS OF GAME DEVELOPMENT

(Grade 9,10,11,12) (0.5 Elective Credit)

(Prerequisite:  None)

Game Development is a game design course and much more.  The design process of planning, implementing, reviewing, and adjusting will be utilized as students create and program their games.  Technical skills such as programming, graphic design, animation, testing and debugging will be taught in this course.  Game Development will begin with drag-n-drop programming and advance to more complex projects that involve writing code.  Students will also explore the dramatic elements and narrative design behind games.  Once students have learned how to develop and program a game, they will investigate the business of game design and strategies to market an original game idea.

60629W  THE BUSINESS OF GAME DEVELOPMENT 2

(Grade 10,11,12) (0.5 Elective Credit)

(Prerequisite:  Business of Game Development 1)

The Business of Game Development 2 will launch students deeper into the game design and marketing process.  Skills acquired in level one will be reviewed and expanded upon through the use of more robust software.  Furthermore, students will be asked to extend their prior projects created in the level one course to show the advanced use of design elements, coding, and analysis.   At the completion of this course, students will have planned, developed, and field-tested an original computer game using the provided software.  Additionally, students will create an innovative marketing plan and materials for their original creation.