Computer Science
Program Goal: To foster a deep understanding of computer hardware, software systems and business-related applications in order to build lifelong technological skills, efficiencies and expertise
Students will:
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Optimize their efficiency through the use of advanced search techniques, operating system navigation and shortcuts, software application training, and web-based tools
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Digitally produce text-based, graphical and computational creations to serve a particular function (documents, spreadsheets, presentations, computer programs)
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Develop computer programs through an iterative process of writing, testing and modifying code
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Understand digital security and practice digital safety measures
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Explore careers in the fields of business technology and programming
* All Computer Science courses are elective courses; however, students must earn a minimum of 1 credit hour in either Computer Science courses, Engineering and Innovation courses, Fine Arts courses, Instrumental and Vocal Music, or Media Arts and Design courses (or a combination of these courses) prior to graduation.
Elective Offerings
Business Technology
Course Number: C142
Credit Hours: 1/2 Credit
Prerequisite: None
Open to grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Course Description: This course teaches the effective use of a variety of computer applications. The Microsoft Office Suite, the Windows environment, and various online and Web 2.0 tools will be learned in this course. Students will create professional documents and multimedia projects for both personal and business-related tasks. Spreadsheets, databases, and presentation programs will be used throughout this course.
Computer Essentials
Course Number: C109
Credit Hours: 1/2 Credit
Prerequisite: None
Open to grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Course Description: This course teaches basic computer knowledge and skills for everyday life. Typing skills will be practiced and reinforced throughout the course. Computer hardware and computer networking will be learned along with basic troubleshooting methods. Additionally, internet security, internet search strategies, and digital citizenship will be taught and practiced. Web-based tools will be used throughout the course both to deliver instruction and to create student work.
Python Programming
Course Number: C146
Credit Hours: 1/2 Credit
Prerequisite: None
Open to grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Offered even-numbered years
Course Description: Python Programming is an introductory-level course for students brand new to programming and computer science. In this course, you will learn problem-solving strategies, software design and the foundation of computer science. Not only will this course prepare you for continuing your studies in computer science (for example, by taking AP Computer Science A and AP Computer Science Principles), but it will also teach you to think like a scientist and solve real-world problems, skills that are important to every 21st-century citizen. There are no prerequisites for this course, although you should have basic familiarity with how to operate a computer and use applications. It is also recommended that you have familiarity with basic algebra principles before starting this course.
C# Programming 1
Course Number: C115
Credit Hours: 1/2 Credit
Prerequisite: None
Open to grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Offered odd-numbered years
Course Description: This course introduces computer programming in C# Programming language. It begins with the study of logic as applied to computer programming and basic program design. Programs are created which teach various computer commands, programming structures, mathematical operations, and foundations of programming. Highly recommended for students interested in pursuing engineering, mathematics, computer science or other technical careers.
C# Programming 2
Course Number: C116
Credit Hours: 1/2 Credit
Prerequisite: C# Programming I
Open to grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Offered odd-numbered years
Course Description: This course is an extension of C# Programming I. Students will expand on concepts learned in C# Programming I and learn advanced programming concepts. Application of knowledge will be tested through hands-on activities, comparisons will be made with other languages, and practical programming applications will be examined.
AP Computer Science Principles
Course Number: C121
Credit Hours: 1 Credit
Prerequisite: None
Open to grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Course Description: AP Computer Science Principles offers a multidisciplinary approach to teaching the underlying principles of computation. The course will introduce students to the creative aspects of programming, abstractions, algorithms, large data sets, the internet, cybersecurity concerns and computing impacts. AP Computer Science Principles also gives students the opportunity to use current technologies to create computational artifacts for both self-expression and problem-solving. Together, these aspects of the course make up a rigorous and rich curriculum that aims to broaden participation in computer science.
AP Computer Science
Course Number: C120
Credit Hours: 1 Credit
Prerequisite: Students must take one of the following courses – Python Programming, C# Programming I or AP Computer Science Principles
Open to grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Course Description: This course emphasizes object-oriented programming methodology with a concentration on problem solving and algorithm development and is meant to be the equivalent of a first-semester college-level course in computer science. Students will design and implement solutions to problems by writing, running and debugging computer programs, use and implement commonly used algorithms and data structures to solve problems, and code fluently in an object-oriented paradigm using the programming language Java.