Exploring Computer Science
Course Syllabus
2021- 2022
Instructor:
Tamela Fair
Rm-203
.
W 200
Email:
bwilliamson@nsd131.org
Course Description:
Exploring Computer Science is designed to introduce
students to the breadth of the
field of computer science through an exploration of engaging and accessible topics.
Rather than focusing
the entire course on learning a particular software tool or programming language,
the course is designed
to explore the
conceptual ideas of computing and to introduce students to a variety of tools and
languages
that might be utilized
to solve particular problems.
Philosophy
:
Students will be provided with an environment that is conducive to learning.
Students will
look forward to coming to class every day. As a teacher I will do my best to prepare
each individual for
their future.
Objectives:
Using a project based learnin
g environment, students will successfully complete the learning
objectives for each unit of instruction described below.
Student Learning Goals:
Through computational thinking, problem
solving, web development,
programming, and robotics, students will:
A
nalyze the effects of developments in computing
Design and implement creative solutions and artifacts
Apply abstractions and models
Analyze their computational work and the work of others
Communicate computational thought processes, procedures, and results
to others
Collaborate with peers on computing activities and organize projects
Units of Instruction:
Human Computer Interaction
Problem Solving
Web Design
Introduction to Programming
Computing and Data Analysis
Robotics
Class work:
Students will have
the opportunity to complete many assignments in class in the form of journal
writing, individual or group preparation, research, collaborative problem
solving, notebook check
or any other work that is to be completed in class.
Quizzes and Tests are to meas
ure student mastery of computer science terms. Students may
follow their own progress and success.
Frequently, students will work in groups to complete projects according to the
information sheets
provided with each project. These will include
presentations, posters, designs, and final products.
Materials
Pen/Pencil
Paper
80(+) page spiral notebook for taking notes/journaling
Headphones (optional)
Flash drive (optional)
Grading
Procedures
:
The grade distribution is as follows: Class work/ Part
icipation: 25% Quizzes: 10%
Tests: 15% Projects: 50%
A
–
90% and above
B
–
80%
89%
C
–
70%
79%
D
–
60%
69%
F
–
59% and below
Classroom Rules
:
Respect yourself
Respect your fellow students’ right to learn
Respect
the teacher’s
right to instruct
Respect the school / classroom equipment.
Classroom Discipline
:
First offense: The student will be warned about his/her inappropriate behavior.
Second offense: Time spent with teacher/detention
Third offense: Student will meet teacher to discuss his
or her inappropriate behavior. Parent(s) /
Guardian(s) will be contacted
o
If the student’s behavior severely disrupts the classroom learning environment
he/she will
be sent directly to administration.
Additional Instruction
:
Students in need of tutoring o
r extra help are welcome to schedule a time to meet with the teacher.
Late or Make Up work:
Students are encouraged to make up all missed work due to absence. Credit will be
given for work made
up in a timely manner, except in the case of truancy. As
a guide three days will be given for students to
make up course work. Late work will be accepted for reduced credit. Any
assignment due the day a
student is absent will be due the day the student returns unless prior arrangements
have been made with
the
teacher ahead of time. Recreating the learning experience and missed work is not
always possible,
therefore, the teacher reserves the right to make substitutions of academic tasks.
Dear Parents/ Guardians:
Please take a moment to read this class guide
with your student. After you have reviewed the
information, please sign
and
return this form. Your student will receive credit
for the prompt return of
this paper. I look forward to having a great year and hope all students will be
successful.
Thank yo
u,
Bob Williamson
bwilliamson@nsd131.org
Student
Name
:
_
__________________________________________
Student Signature
:
________________________________________
Parent /
Guardian Signature
:
________________________________________
Parent / Guardian Contacts
:
Email
:
_
_______________________________________________
Daytime phone
:
_______________________________________