Computer Science (Project Lead the Way)
Courses & Descriptions
Computer Science Essentials
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Course Length: Year
High School Credit: 0.5 per semester of academic elective credit
College Credit: 3 Dual Enrollment Credits through University of Colorado, Colorado Springs. ENGR 1512
Fee: No course fee. Families will be responsible for the cost of tuition for Dual Enrollment courses.
Prerequisite: None
Location:
Englewood High School
3800 S. Logan Street
Englewood, CO 80113
2023-24 Schedule: M/T/F 11:47-12:39 and TH 11:53-1:17
Description: With an emphasis on computational thinking and collaboration, this course provides an excellent entry point for students to begin or continue the computer science experience. Computer Science Essentials will expose students to a diverse set of computational thinking concepts, fundamentals, and tools, allowing them to gain understanding and build confidence. In Computer Science Essentials, students will use visual, block-based programming and seamlessly transition to text-based programming with languages such as Python to create apps and develop websites and learn how to make computers work together to put their design into practice. They’ll apply computational thinking practices, build their vocabulary, and collaborate just as computing professionals do to create products that address topics and problems important to them.
Student Expectations:
- Students will be expected to work both independently and in teams to learn the basics of computer science.
- Students will be expected to use class time wisely to complete all requirements of the class, and to extend their learning beyond the classroom to further their understanding.
- Students will have opportunities to work towards industry certifications, but must have an understanding that they will be responsible for setting goals, milestones, and timelines for completion with their instructor.
- Students will be expected to work as part of a team to compete internally or externally in computer science-based competitions.
AP Computer Science Principles
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Course Length: Year
High School Credit: 0.5 per semester of academic elective credit
College Credit: 3 Dual Enrollment Credits through University of Colorado, Colorado Springs. ENGR 1509
Fee: No course fee. Families will be responsible for the cost of tuition for Dual Enrollment courses.
Prerequisite:
Computer Science Essentials
Location:
Englewood High School
3800 S. Logan Street
Englewood, CO 80113
2023-24 Schedule: M/T/F 11:47-12:39 and TH 11:53-1:17
Description: This course is recognized by the College Board as an Advanced Placement course. Using Python as a primary tool and incorporating multiple platforms and languages for computation, this course aims to develop computational thinking, generate excitement about career paths that utilize computing, and introduce professional tools that foster creativity and collaboration. Computer Science Principles helps students develop programming expertise and explore the workings of the Internet. Projects and problems include app development, visualization of data, cybersecurity, and simulation.
Advanced Placement Requirements:
- Two projects during the course
- One end-of-year exam: multiple choice
Student Expectations:
- Students will be expected to work both independently and in teams to learn the basics of Python and other languages.
- Students will be expected to use class time wisely to complete all requirements of the class, and to extend their learning beyond the classroom to further their understanding.
- Students will have opportunities to work towards industry certifications, but must have an understanding that they will be responsible for setting goals, milestones, and timelines for completion with their instructor.
- Students will be expected to work as part of a team to compete internally or externally in computer science-based competitions.