Computer Science Essentials blends unplugged learning with block-based programming, computational thinking, and core digital citizenship principles so students can learn the essential introductory computer science knowledge they need to be successful and safe in today’s changing world. This course is aligned to ISTE standards, utilizes a 5E lesson plan design, and builds skills students need to be successful in higher-level coding courses.
Through a combination of follow-along projects and self directed activities, students build a unique coding project portfolio demonstrating the skills and knowledge they acquire.
STEM connections embedded in this course reinforce relevant science and math concepts to provide a well-rounded educational experience.
Upon completing this course, students will be prepared to earn the following industry recognized certification(s):
Students complete the following projects in this project based course:
Utilizing a 5E lesson plan design that aligns the academic objectives to ISTE standards, all of the materials are “turn-key” so that they require no previous instructional experience from the teacher in the realm of coding, programming or computer science in order to be effectively taught.
Units include:
Students will learn about the functions and foundational principles of sequencing, algorithms, loops, and if- statements.
Students will be taught the rules of safe digital interaction, and the core principles of cybersecurity, online safety, and digital citizenship.
Students will learn about the basic hardware and software makeup of computers and the impact of each component on the larger system.
Students will understand the concepts 'copyright’ and ‘plagiarism’ to not only protect their content online but to also give credit to artists and creators when credit is due.
The program will have students apply core math concepts including pattern recognition, estimation, and calculating percentages.
RAM: 4GB or more
CPU: Pentium 5 or later
13" or bigger display
Full keyboard
Three-button mouse with scroll wheel
Headphone jack and headphones
Google Chrome
Chromebook: Chrome OS 100.0 or later
Windows: 7, 8, 8.1, 10 or later
Mac: OS X El Capitan 10.11 or later
Linux: 64-bit Ubuntu 18.04+, Debian 10+, openSUSE 15.2+, or Fedora Linux 32+