Related Arts » Computer Science 6

Computer Science 6

Welcome to Computer Science 6

Mr. Fissel -- Room #233 -- [email protected] -- 423-378-2450


Computer Science 6 is a comprehensive course which introduces the concepts of algorithmic-thinking and coding. Students will work with an interactive block-based world where they will need to perform actions so that a character in the world can achieve various goals and objectives. During this process, they will learn the fundamentals of computational thinking and programming in Python. Additionally, students delve into  the hardware and software aspects of data representation, collection, storage and analysis. They engage in hands-on projects to collect and analyze data. They explore the fundamentals of networks, IP addresses and the role of the internet. Students will understand the importance of cybersecurity and ways to protect their personal information. They will also explore the ethical considerations of online behaviors and develop responsible digital citizenship skills.


By the end of this course, students will understand:

  • Fundamentals of algorithmic and computational thinking 
  • Block-based coding in the Python Programming language
  • Data representation, collection and analysis
  • Networks and Internet Basics
  • Ethical considerations of computing and responsible digital behavior

Class Assignments:

  • Guided notes
  • Kira lessons which include coding, written reflection, and quiz questions
  • End of unit project

Student expectations in the classroom:

  • Courtesy
  • Character
  • Punctuality
  • Respect
  • Responsibility
  • To follow directions
  • To practice proper safety precautions
  • To complete your projects on time
  • To have fun

Materials needed daily:

  • A pencil
  • Your laptop
  • Headphones
  • Login to Kira Learning class (teacher will provide login information for each student)

Breakdown of Grading:

 

Grades will be taken on a regular basis and can include, but are not limited to, classroom activities (guided notes and Kira Learning activities), projects, and quizzes. I grade using a Total Point System.

 

For total point’s grades, I add the total points received for the entire grading period and divide by the total points possible for that period. For example, if there were 1000 points possible for all assignments this grading period and you earned 936, we could find out your overall grade by dividing 936 by 1000. This would give you a grade of 93.6%.

 

Grading Scale:

A.....90-100

B.....80-89

C.....70-79

D.....60-69

F.....Below 60

 

Course Breakdown:


Unit 1: Introduction to Programming using Platypus

FAQ Slides 

Lesson 1.1:  Fundamentals of Algorithmic Thinking 

CS Standard: MS.AT — Identify algorithms that make use of sequencing, selection, or iteration.

CS Standard: MS.PC — Use the iterative design process to systematically test and refine programs to improve performance and eliminate errors.

Lesson 1.2:  Iteration using While Loops

CS Standard — MS.AT: Identify algorithms that make use of sequencing, selection, or iteration.

Lesson 1.3: Variables and User Input

CS Standard — MS.AT: Use clearly named variables of various data types to create generalized algorithms.

Lesson 1.4: Conditional Statements

CS Standard — MS.AT: Create algorithms which include methods of controlling the flow of computation using “if...then...else” type conditional statements to perform different operations depending on the values of inputs

Lesson 1.5: Decomposition using Functions

CS Standard — MS.PC: 

  • Decompose problems and subproblems into parts to facilitate the design, implementation, and review of programs.
  • Create procedures with parameters that hide the complexity of a task and can be reused to solve similar tasks.
  • Design a function using a programming language.

Lesson 1.6: Comparing Algorithms

CS Standard — MS.PC: 

  • Identify algorithms that make use of sequencing, selection, or iteration.
  • Describe how algorithmic processes and automation increase efficiency.

Lesson 1.7 (Project Lesson) 

CS Standard — MS.PC and MS.AT:

  • Identify algorithms that make use of sequencing, selection, or iteration.
  • Create procedures with parameters that hide the complexity of a task and can be reused to solve similar tasks.

Lesson 1.8: Platypus Challenges

 
 

Unit 2: Data Representation and Analysis

FAQ Slides

Lesson 2.1: Representing Data 

CS Standard - MS.DA: Represent data using multiple encoding schemes, such as decimal, binary, Unicode, Morse code, Shorthand, student-created codes.

Lesson 2.2: Hardware and Data Storage 

CS Standard - MS.DA: Represent data using multiple encoding schemes, such as decimal, binary, Unicode, Morse code, Shorthand, student-created codes.

Lesson 2.3: Recognizing Patterns in Data with Graphs

CS Standard - MS.DA: Collect, analyze, transform, and refine computational data to make it more useful and reliable.

Lesson 2.4: Data Collection and Analysis 

CS Standard - MS.DA: Collect, analyze, transform, and refine computational data to make it more useful and reliable. Refine computational models based on the data they have generated.

Lesson 2.5 (Project Lesson) 

CS Standard - MS.DA: Data Analysis

  • Represent data using multiple encoding schemes, such as decimal, binary, Unicode, Morse code, Shorthand, student-created codes.
  • Collect, analyze, transform, and refine computational data to make it more useful and reliable.
 

Unit 3: The Internet and the Impact of Computing

FAQ Slides 

Lesson 3.1: The Internet 

CS Standard - MS.NI: Networking and the Internet 

  • Differentiate between secure and non-secure websites and applications including how they affect and use personal data.
  • Identify and employ appropriate troubleshooting techniques used to solve computing or connectivity issues.

MS.IC: Impacts of Computing - Identify and evaluate the impacts computer science innovations have had on our society.

Lesson 3.2: Packets and Data Transmission 

CS Standard - MS.NI: Networking and the Internet - Identify and employ appropriate troubleshooting techniques used to solve computing or connectivity issues.

Lesson 3.3: Privacy and Security 

CS Standard - MS.NI: Networking and the Internet - Compare and contrast common methods of securing data and cybersecurity.

Lesson 3.4: Impacts of the Internet

CS Standard - MS.IC: Impacts of Computing

  • Identify and evaluate the impacts computer science innovations have had on our society.
  • Investigate a variety of education pathways and career options that utilize computational thinking and/or computer science skills across the state of Tennessee and the world.

Lesson 3.5 Project: Mars Rover 

CS Standard - MS.FC: Foundational Concepts

  • Analyze the advantages and limitations of existing computing devices to improve user experience.
  • Demonstrate skills in identifying and solving hardware and software problems that can occur during regular usage.

CS Standard - MS.DA: Data Analysis

  • Refine computational models based on the data they have generated.

CS Standard - MS.IC: Impacts of Computing

  • Identify how computational systems are being used to collect and analyze information both public and private and understand the benefits and disadvantages of these systems for the user and developer.
  • Investigate a variety of education pathways and career options that utilize computational thinking and/or computer science skills across the state of Tennessee and the world.