Computer Science Pathway
Our Computer Science Pathway is a hands-on, project based pathway offered through Project Lead the Way. Project Lead the Way is the leading provider of rigorous and innovative Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education curricular programs used in high schools across the US. STEM education programs like the one offered by PLTW engage students in activities, projects, and problem based (APPB) learning, which provides hands-on classroom experiences. Students create, design, build, discover, collaborate and solve problems while applying what they learn in math and science. They are also exposed to STEM fields through professionals from local industries who supplement the real-world aspect of the curriculum through mentorships and workplace experiences. PLTW’s comprehensive curriculum in Computer Science has been collaboratively designed by PLTW teachers, university educators, biomedical professionals and school administrators to promote critical thinking, creativity, innovation, and real-world problem solving skills in students. Students in this pathway are also enrolled in a Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) that provides students the opportunity to participate in conferences and competitions locally, statewide, and internationally. The organization Computer Science students join is called SkillsUSA.
Students in our Computer Science Pathway engage in a 4-year rigorous honors level course sequence that allows the to gain hands-on experience, access to professionals in the biomedical field, and culminate in projects and internships that are a great lead-in to future studies in the computer science field in college and beyond. Below is the list of our Computer Science courses in our pathway:
Computer Science Essentials
Students will experience the major topics, big ideas, and computational thinking practices used by computing professionals to solve problems and create value for others. This course will empower students to develop computational thinking skills while building confidence that prepares them to advance to Computer Science Principles and Computer Science A.
Students will experience the major topics, big ideas, and computational thinking practices used by computing professionals to solve problems and create value for others. This course will empower students to develop computational thinking skills while building confidence that prepares them to advance to Computer Science Principles and Computer Science A.
AP Computer Science Principles
Using Python® as a primary tool, students explore and become inspired by career paths that utilize computing, discover tools that foster creativity and collaboration, and use what they’ve learned to tackle challenges like app development and simulation. This course is endorsed by the College Board, giving students the opportunity to take the AP Computer Science Principles exam for college credit.
Using Python® as a primary tool, students explore and become inspired by career paths that utilize computing, discover tools that foster creativity and collaboration, and use what they’ve learned to tackle challenges like app development and simulation. This course is endorsed by the College Board, giving students the opportunity to take the AP Computer Science Principles exam for college credit.
AP Computer Science A
Students cultivate their understanding of coding through analyzing, writing, and testing code as they explore concepts like modularity, variables, and control structures. This course is endorsed by the College Board, giving students the opportunity to take the AP Computer Science Principles exam for college credit. Students who complete this course are eligible for college credit through Los Medanos College through our exclusive articulation agreement.
Students cultivate their understanding of coding through analyzing, writing, and testing code as they explore concepts like modularity, variables, and control structures. This course is endorsed by the College Board, giving students the opportunity to take the AP Computer Science Principles exam for college credit. Students who complete this course are eligible for college credit through Los Medanos College through our exclusive articulation agreement.
Advanced Java Topics with Android Studio
This course covers advanced Java programming course for students familiar with object-oriented programming.Students will be introduced to concepts and techniques for developing mobile applications using Android Studio. Students will become familiar with modern mobile structure, implementation, development tools, and workflow. An emphasis will be placed on advanced concepts associated with the utilization of basic graphical user interface techniques, integrating logical reasoning skills into a GUI, memory management and database usage and connectivity.
Students who are involved in the Computer Science Pathway are also involved with the national Skills USA organization. Students in this organization participate in conferences and competitions locally, statewide, and internationally.
For more information, please contact the Pathway lead teacher, Tracey Lewis, at tlewis@lammersvilleusd.net