Computer Science

The goal of Computer Science in the middle school is to instill a knowledge of and confidence in the iterative, problem-solving process. Using the Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) standards to inform the curriculum the following five strands are covered: computational thinking, collaboration, computing practice and programming, computers and communication devices and community, global and ethical impacts. With a focus on process over product, students will be able to fully harness the problem-solving capabilities of a computer. Computers afford the programmer/user a very powerful tool with which to solve problems. By learning how to break these problems down into discrete, repeatable steps, students are able to iterate through a multitude of approaches before arriving at an algorithm that achieves the goals of the problem. In order to fully embrace this iterative problem-solving approach, students must have the confidence to fail, to get unexpected results, and to explore and persevere through these challenges as they work their way closer to finding solutions. Harnessing the potential of algorithmic thought and the programmatic potential of computers, students will use their computer science knowledge to help them to be “creators” as opposed to just “users” of technology in many fields of study.

Computer Science 6

The sixth grade Computer Science curriculum emphasizes computational thinking, collaboration (including an emphasis on pair programming), and computer practice and programming, mainly through the Scratch programming language and Turing Tumbles™ Marble-Powered Computers. Through the two environments, students are exposed to the fundamentals of programming and algorithmic thinking, learning how to translate ideas into something a computer can implement. Students also complete algorithmic thinking exercises through off-line activities. The various robotics environments are used for STEM activities, as students build and test a variety of projects that require an understanding of logical and algorithm-based thinking.
Computer Science 6*

In sixth grade, students are introduced to the Middle/Upper School Library Media Center, its organization, resources, and policies. Students learn how to use and locate information in various sources (books, e-books, databases, and the Internet) and evaluate, organize, and present information in various formats (public speaking, formal papers, iMovie, etc). Students learn how to create a formal bibliography and image source page. Students investigate the role of technology in their lives and how to “be safe” in today’s technological society. Students are also encouraged to practice good technology habits, such as backing up their computer on a regular basis. In sixth grade, students are also given instruction on proper typing technique, which will be highlighted throughout the rest of the middle school curriculum.
Computer Science 7

In seventh grade, students begin to look at how media, in all forms, affects their lives. Students take a closer look at technology, policies of acceptable use, and the potential for technology to be misused (e.g. bullying). Students continue to be encouraged to practice good technology habits, such as backing up their computer on a regular basis. Students also look at how media uses color, font, and persuasive techniques to influence choices and actions in everyday life. Using GoogleSlides, QuickTime, and iMovie, students use those same techniques to persuade an audience to take action on a chosen topic. Using statistical information, students create and manipulate information in spreadsheets and surveys. Students look into the “Fake News” phenomenon and learn to evaluate sources for statistical accuracy and fact vs. opinion.
Computer Science 7*

In seventh grade, students begin to look at how media, in all forms, affects their lives. Students take a closer look at technology, policies of acceptable use, and the potential for technology to be misused (e.g. bullying). Students continue to be encouraged to practice good technology habits, such as backing up their computer on a regular basis. Students also look at how media uses color, font, and persuasive techniques to influence choices and actions in everyday life. Using GoogleSlides, QuickTime, and iMovie, students use those same techniques to persuade an audience to take action on a chosen topic. Using statistical information, students create and manipulate information in spreadsheets and surveys. Students look into the “Fake News” phenomenon and learn to evaluate sources for statistical accuracy and fact vs. opinion.
Computer Science 8

The eighth grade Computer Science curriculum builds on the problem-solving skills developed in previous years. The course focuses on exposing students to real-world problems for which they have to design, build, and test various solutions with end-user specifications. Although the students generate a product, the application/program design process is a main focus.

The first half of the course focuses on programming and algorithmic thinking as students build on their basic skills. Students investigate and implement processes that form the basis of computer science, with topics including variables, searching, sorting, and graphs. They also expand their programming knowledge using the Python programming language, Finch robots and/or Micro:bits. Throughout the year, students employ computer science as a tool to enhance other studies, with cross-curricular projects. Students also investigate modern technology from the perspectives of both hardware (the functions of computer components) and software (internet operations and computer security).
ITL 6

In sixth grade, students are introduced to the Middle/Upper School Library Media Center - its organization, resources, and policies. Students learn how to use and locate information in various sources (books, e-books, databases, and the Internet) and evaluate, organize, and present information in various formats (public speaking, formal papers, wiki pages, etc.). Students learn how to create a bibliography. Students learn how to use applications and programs used in other classes, specifically the GoogleSuite and school website. Students investigate the role of technology in their lives and how to “be safe” in today’s technological society. In sixth grade, students are also given instruction on proper typing technique, which will be highlighted throughout the rest of the middle school curriculum.
ITL 7

In seventh grade, students investigate the role of media in their daily lives and in the wider world. Students take a closer look at technology, policies of acceptable use, and the potential of technology to be misused (e.g. bullying). Students investigate various aspects of media including the psychology behind how our brains work with various media and persuasion techniques used by the media. Students evaluate sources for statistical accuracy and fact vs. opinion. Students use various search techniques to find information for various core subject research and create MLA bibliographies to support that research. Students also look at how design choices can be used to “nudge” a person into certain actions or behaviors. Throughout the year, students practice taking lecture notes and improve their keyboarding skills.
ITL 8

In eighth grade, the Library Media Center introduces students to advanced search techniques, alternative search engines, subject-specific databases and other search tools. Students evaluate sources for specific criteria and learn to defend their choice of sources in an annotated bibliography. Students use advanced tools to organize information and files. Students continue to master techniques for effectively presenting information in formal research papers, public speaking, and graphic representations. Students also continue to look at the role of technology in their lives and the implications in appropriate behavior and acceptable use.

MS Curriculum Detail

Computer Science