Computer Science Principles

The first-level course in this pathway, Computer Science Principles I, is an introductory course intended to familiarize students with the general concepts and thinking practices of computing, computer science, and information science. Students will learn computing concepts through authentic visual and interactive projects using visual programming languages. Students will focus on the “big CS ideas” in creative ways that emphasize conceptual knowledge and thinking practices rather than on programming alone. The big ideas in CSP include computing as a creative activity, abstraction, facilitating knowledge creation through computing, algorithms, problem-solving, the Internet, and the global impact of computing. Emphasis is placed on problem-solving, communication, creativity, and exploring the impacts of computing on how we think, communicate, work, and play. The second-level course in this pathway, Computer Science Principles II, is based on The Beauty and Joy of Computing curriculum and builds on the foundation of Computer Science Principles I by offering a more in depth examination of the “big CS ideas” including a broad range of foundational topics such as programming, algorithms, the internet, big data, digital privacy and security, and the societal impacts of computing. Students will extend their programming skills to include more complex constructs including objects and data abstraction. As an option, performance tasks may be included to obtain AP credit.