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Fundamentals of Computer Science

December 19, 2024

Agenda

1. Congratulations! You survived the semester!

December 18, 2024

Agenda

1. Congratulations! You survived the semester!

December 17, 2024

Agenda

1. Semester Exam

2. Semester Exam Schedule

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December 16, 2024

Agenda

1. Journal Entry

Are you looking forward to the winter break?

2. Missing Work

If you have any missing work, please see the instructions from December 12, 2024 on how to turn in late assignments.

December 13, 2024

Agenda

1. Dance Party

2. Missing Work

If you have any missing work, please see the instructions from December 12, 2024 on how to turn in late assignments.

December 12, 2024

Agenda

1. Missing Assignments

Make up any assignments that you have not yet completed. You should be finished with:

2. Missing Journals

You can find all assigned journal prompts here. Use this time to make up any journal entries that you’ve missed. The journals assigned on the following dates are the only entries that can still be submitted:

3. Important: You Must Email Me

If you complete any missing assignments or journal entries from prior weeks, you must email me at dwhitby@judsonisd.org to and let me know what you have completed. If you do not email me, I will not know that you have made up your missing work or journal entries, and I will not be able to update your grade.

December 11, 2024

Agenda

1. Hello World: Retro

2. Journal

December 10, 2024

Agenda

1. Classic Maze

2. Journal

December 9, 2024

Agenda

Journal Entry

The Oxford Word of the Year for 2024 is “brain rot”, a term reflecting concerns about the negative effects of excessive digital consumption on mental well-being and intellectual capacity. With so much of our time spent online, it’s easy to see why this term resonates. Platforms filled with trivial content can entertain, but they might also distract us from more meaningful pursuits.

The shortlist of runner-ups adds further layers to this theme. Words like “slop” (low-quality, often AI-generated content) and “dynamic pricing” (highlighting economic shifts influenced by technology) show the power and pitfalls of a tech-driven world. Meanwhile, terms like “romantasy” and “lore” reflect how storytelling and creativity thrive in our digital spaces, blending genres and preserving traditions. Further, words like “demure” gained prominence through viral social media posts.

The selection of these words sparks questions about how technology shapes not only our language but also our daily lives. Are we losing something valuable in the process, or are we evolving into something new?

Write a paragraph or more reflecting on the following:

Please be very “demure” and very mindful in your response. You can learn more about the the Oxford word of the year here.

December 6, 2024

Agenda

1. Minecraft Adventurer

2. Journal

December 5, 2024

Agenda

1. Minecraft: Hero’s Journey

2. Journal

December 4, 2024

Agenda

1. Minecraft Designer

2. Journal

December 3, 2024

Agenda

1. Python Printing

2. Journal

December 2, 2024

Agenda

Journal Entry

1. Prompt:

Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to shape the way we live and work. This week, research one recent development in AI or another emerging technology (e.g., quantum computing, renewable energy tech, AR/VR, etc.). Summarize what you learned and share your thoughts on how it could impact society, your future career, or daily life.

2. Follow-Up Questions:

• What excites or concerns you about this technology?

• Can you think of an innovative way this technology could be used in your field of interest?

• What ethical considerations might need to be addressed as this technology evolves?

Tip:

Include the source of your research and make your response at least 5-7 sentences.

November 22, 2024

Agenda

November 21, 2024

Agenda

Python Fundamentals: Test 2

Make-Up Missing Journals

November 20, 2024

Agenda

1. Inputs and Variables

2. Journal

November 19, 2024

The holiday season is a time of celebration, which often revolves around food. From harvesting crops to transporting goods to local stores, technology plays a major role in getting our holiday meals onto our tables. Check out this video: Transforming the Food Industry with Technology.

Prompt: Reflect on how technology has changed the way we grow, distribute, and purchase food. In what ways does technology make food more affordable and accessible during the holiday season? Are there any negative effects of relying on technology for our food supply? Write a paragraph explaining your thoughts with examples.

November 18, 2024

Agenda

1. Zumi Robo Cars

November 15, 2024

Agenda

1. Zumi Robo Cars

2. Journal

November 14, 2024

Agenda

1. Zumi Robo Cars

2. Journal

November 13, 2024

Agenda

1. Zumi Robo Cars

2. Journal

November 12, 2024

Agenda

1. Journal Entry

Choose a current event that interests you or impacts your community.

2. Zumi Robo Cars

November 8, 2024

Agenda

1. Zumi Robo Cars

2. Calculations with Variables

3. Journal

November 7, 2024

Agenda

1. Calculations with Variables

2. Zumi Robo Cars

3. Journal

November 6, 2024

Howdy! I’m out for today and will be back tomorrow. Please behave for your sub.

Your assignment is posted on canvas—Calculations with Variables. If you cannot access the assignment on Canvas.

Have a great day, and I’ll see you tomorrow!

November 4, 2024

Agenda

Journal Entry

In today’s digital world, sharing and publishing content online is more common than ever. Whether you’re contributing to a project, posting on social media, or submitting work for class, it’s important to think about the kinds of information you’re sharing and how it can be used.

Reflect on the following questions:

  1. Why is it important to protect your personal and sensitive information when publishing online?

  2. What steps can you take to ensure that the information you share on platforms like GitHub or social media remains secure?

  3. Have you ever shared something online that you later realized was too personal? How would you handle that differently now?

  4. How can you balance being open and collaborative in online spaces (like working with others on coding projects) while still protecting your privacy?

Write a paragraph or more considering these questions. Include examples of actions you can take to safeguard your own data, and reflect on why being cautious online is important for your personal and professional life.

November 1, 2024

Agenda

Python Fundamentals: Test 1

Make-Up Missing Journals

October 31, 2024

Agenda

Python Fundamentals: Test 1

October 30, 2024

Agenda

Zumi Robo Cars

October 29, 2024

Agenda

Zumi Robo Cars

October 28, 2024

Journal Entry

With the upcoming election, technology plays a huge role in various aspects, from voting machines to social media. How do you think computer science and technology impact the election process? Discuss one positive impact and one potential challenge or concern. Be sure to provide specific examples of how programming, security, or technology influences elections today.

October 25, 2024

Agenda

Zumi Robo Cars

October 24, 2024

Agenda

Zumi Robo Cars

October 23, 2024

Agenda

Introduction to Zumi

October 22, 2024

Agenda

Introduction to Zumi

October 21, 2024

Journal Entry

The Benefits and Risks of Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming industries like healthcare, education, and business, but it also comes with challenges. In this journal entry, write about how AI has the potential to help improve our lives. Then, consider some ways in which AI could cause harm, especially in areas like privacy, jobs, and security. Be sure to support your thoughts with examples for both sides.

Write two paragraphs—one focusing on the benefits and one on the potential risks.

You can use the following resources to inform your response:

October 18, 2024

Agenda

1. Khan Academy - Lesson 4: Arithmetic expressions

khanacademy.org

October 17, 2024

Python Flashcards Poster Assignment Instructions

  1. Prepare to Present:

    • Get ready to explain your term, definition, and example to the class.

  2. Present to the Class:

    • Share your poster, explain your term, and show your code example.

  3. Classroom Display:

    • After presenting, we will hang the posters around the room to use as references.

October 16, 2024

Python Flashcards Poster Assignment Instructions

  1. Get Your Flashcard:
    • Each student or group gets one Python term (e.g., Variables, Strings, Comments).

  2. Create a Poster:

    • Write your term at the top.
    • Include a simple definition.
    • Add a code example that shows how the term is used in Python.

  3. Work Together (for groups):

    • If you’re in a group, split the work and help each other create the poster.

  4. Prepare to Present:

    • Get ready to explain your term, definition, and example to the class.

  5. Present to the Class:

    • Share your poster, explain your term, and show your code example.

  6. Classroom Display:

    • After presenting, we will hang the posters around the room to use as references.

October 15, 2024

Journal Entry

Last week we looked at computer science jobs. This week we’ll look at applying computer science to jobs in any industry. I’d like you to consider why is learning to code valuable regardless of the industry you choose to work in?

Write a paragraph or more focused on the following:

  1. How can coding improve problem-solving skills?
  2. How might understanding code help you in industries that aren’t directly related to technology, such as healthcare, finance, or education?
  3. How does coding enhance creativity or collaboration?

Provide examples where coding knowledge might benefit professionals in various fields. Remember to use specific examples and reflect on how coding can impact your future career path, even if it’s not directly related to computer science.

You can use the following video to help inform your response: Computer Science is Changing Everything

October 10, 2024

Agenda

1. Make-Up Any Missing Working

Today is the last day to make-up missing assignments

Weekly Journal Prompt

Assigned Due
October 7, 2024 October 10, 2024

Research a job or career path in the field of computer science that interests you. In your journal entry, write a paragraph or more addressing the following:

  1. Job Title: What is the job or career path you researched?
  2. Job Description: What are the main responsibilities or tasks for this role?
  3. Skills Required: What programming languages, tools, or skills are important for this position?
  4. Education and Experience: What level of education or experience is typically needed for this role?
  5. Career Growth: What opportunities for growth or advancement are available in this career?
  6. Reflection: How does this job align with your interests and goals in computer science?

October 9, 2024

Testing - No Class

October 8, 2024

Agenda

1. Khan Academy - Lesson 3: Variables

khanacademy.org

1. Khan Academy Lesson 2: Program execution

Weekly Journal Prompt

Assigned Due
October 7, 2024 October 10, 2024

Research a job or career path in the field of computer science that interests you. In your journal entry, write a paragraph or more addressing the following:

  1. Job Title: What is the job or career path you researched?
  2. Job Description: What are the main responsibilities or tasks for this role?
  3. Skills Required: What programming languages, tools, or skills are important for this position?
  4. Education and Experience: What level of education or experience is typically needed for this role?
  5. Career Growth: What opportunities for growth or advancement are available in this career?
  6. Reflection: How does this job align with your interests and goals in computer science?

October 7, 2024

Agenda

1. Khan Academy Lesson 2: Program execution

khanacademy.org

Weekly Journal Prompt

Assigned Due
October 7, 2024 October 10, 2024

Research a job or career path in the field of computer science that interests you. In your journal entry, write a paragraph or more addressing the following:

  1. Job Title: What is the job or career path you researched?
  2. Job Description: What are the main responsibilities or tasks for this role?
  3. Skills Required: What programming languages, tools, or skills are important for this position?
  4. Education and Experience: What level of education or experience is typically needed for this role?
  5. Career Growth: What opportunities for growth or advancement are available in this career?
  6. Reflection: How does this job align with your interests and goals in computer science?

October 4, 2024

Agenda

1. Khan Academy Lesson 2: Program execution

Weekly Journal Prompt

Assigned Due
September 30, 2024 October 4, 2024

Think about your daily routine and activities. Identify one task or process where computer science plays a role, either directly or indirectly. Write a paragraph describing how computer science is used and how it impacts your life. Consider things like apps you use, websites you visit, or even the technology behind devices you rely on. How would your day be different without this use of computer science?

October 3, 2024

Agenda

1. Join Khan Academy Class

2. Khan Academy Lesson 1: The programming platform

Weekly Journal Prompt

Assigned Due
September 30, 2024 October 4, 2024

Think about your daily routine and activities. Identify one task or process where computer science plays a role, either directly or indirectly. Write a paragraph describing how computer science is used and how it impacts your life. Consider things like apps you use, websites you visit, or even the technology behind devices you rely on. How would your day be different without this use of computer science?

October 2, 2024

Agenda

1. A Visual Introduction to Python

2. Join Khan Academy Class

Weekly Journal Prompt

Think about your daily routine and activities. Identify one task or process where computer science plays a role, either directly or indirectly. Write a paragraph describing how computer science is used and how it impacts your life. Consider things like apps you use, websites you visit, or even the technology behind devices you rely on. How would your day be different without this use of computer science?

October 1, 2024

Agenda

1. A Visual Introduction to Python

Weekly Journal Prompt

Think about your daily routine and activities. Identify one task or process where computer science plays a role, either directly or indirectly. Write a paragraph describing how computer science is used and how it impacts your life. Consider things like apps you use, websites you visit, or even the technology behind devices you rely on. How would your day be different without this use of computer science?

September 30, 2024

Agenda

1. A Visual Introduction to Python

Weekly Journal Prompt

Think about your daily routine and activities. Identify one task or process where computer science plays a role, either directly or indirectly. Write a paragraph describing how computer science is used and how it impacts your life. Consider things like apps you use, websites you visit, or even the technology behind devices you rely on. How would your day be different without this use of computer science?

September 27, 2024

Agenda

1. Code Combat

2. A Visual Introduction to Python

Weekly Journal Prompt

This week, we began learning Python programming. In your journal, write a paragraph comparing the experience of using Sphero block coding to writing Python code. Consider the following:

  1. Ease of Use: Which did you find easier to understand and why?
  2. Problem-Solving: How did the two approaches help you solve coding challenges?
  3. Flexibility: In which environment did you feel you had more control or creative freedom?
  4. Real-World Application: How do you think Python programming might be more useful or versatile compared to block coding in Sphero?

Be sure to give specific examples from your experiences with both platforms.

September 26, 2024

Agenda

1. Code Combat

2. A Visual Introduction to Python

Weekly Journal Prompt

This week, we began learning Python programming. In your journal, write a paragraph comparing the experience of using Sphero block coding to writing Python code. Consider the following:

  1. Ease of Use: Which did you find easier to understand and why?
  2. Problem-Solving: How did the two approaches help you solve coding challenges?
  3. Flexibility: In which environment did you feel you had more control or creative freedom?
  4. Real-World Application: How do you think Python programming might be more useful or versatile compared to block coding in Sphero?

Be sure to give specific examples from your experiences with both platforms.

September 25, 2024

Agenda

1. Code Combat

Weekly Journal Prompt

This week, we began learning Python programming. In your journal, write a paragraph comparing the experience of using Sphero block coding to writing Python code. Consider the following:

  1. Ease of Use: Which did you find easier to understand and why?
  2. Problem-Solving: How did the two approaches help you solve coding challenges?
  3. Flexibility: In which environment did you feel you had more control or creative freedom?
  4. Real-World Application: How do you think Python programming might be more useful or versatile compared to block coding in Sphero?

Be sure to give specific examples from your experiences with both platforms.

September 24, 2024

Agenda

1. Code Combat

Weekly Journal Prompt

This week, we began learning Python programming. In your journal, write a paragraph comparing the experience of using Sphero block coding to writing Python code. Consider the following:

  1. Ease of Use: Which did you find easier to understand and why?
  2. Problem-Solving: How did the two approaches help you solve coding challenges?
  3. Flexibility: In which environment did you feel you had more control or creative freedom?
  4. Real-World Application: How do you think Python programming might be more useful or versatile compared to block coding in Sphero?

Be sure to give specific examples from your experiences with both platforms.

September 23, 2024

Agenda

1. Create Maze

2. Maze Solution - Block Code

3. Journal Audit

Everyone needs to make sure that there journal is properly setup. All entries should have an appropriate heading. If you need any assistance, please let me know.

September 20, 2024

Howdy! I am out today and will return on Monday. Please behave for your sub. If I have already given you an alternate assignment, please continue with that assignment. If I have not given you an alternate assignment, please complete the Hour of Code assignment.

Every should be at their own computer or at a table with their own Chromebook. No one should be partnered up or sharing a computer.

Agenda

1. Hour of Code

2. Daily Journal Prompt

September 19, 2024

Agenda

1. Create Maze

2. Maze Solution - Block Code

Daily Journal Prompt

Reflect on your experience programming your Sphero BOLT to navigate the maze. How did you approach programming the Sphero to successfully complete the maze? What adjustments did you have to make during testing?

September 18, 2024

Agenda

1. Create Maze

2. Maze Solution - Block Code

Daily Journal Prompt

Reflect on your experience designing your Sphero BOLT maze. What challenges did you encounter when designing the maze? How did you overcome them?

September 13, 2024

Agenda

1. Journal Audit

Everyone needs to make sure that there journal is properly setup and that all entries have been written. There are three prompts that were assigned previously and a fourth prompt from today.

September 4, 2024

Answer the following in your GitHub Journal:

  1. List 3 sensors found on the Sphero BOLT
  2. Choose one of the sensors, and write a paragraph explaining how that sensor functions.

Note: In your paragraph, describe how the sensor you chose works and how it helps the Sphero BOLT operate. Does it measure light, speed, direction, or something else? Provide details about how the sensor gathers data and how the robot uses that information to move or react to its surroundings. Try to give an example of how this sensor might be used in a specific activity or challenge.

Remember to use the appropriate structure so that you receive credit for your work.

September 10, 2024

Reflecting on Our GitHub Journal Process

As a class, we followed the instructions to set up our GitHub journals. However, only a small number of journals were set up in a way that I could access them. Let’s figure out together what went wrong and how we can improve the process.

Please share your thoughts, as we’ll use this feedback to make sure everyone’s journals are properly set up moving forward.

September 11, 2024

In your digital GitHub journal, write a paragraph explaining why following instructions exactly as they are given is important when learning how to code?

In your response, consider the following:

Remember to use Claim, Evidence, and Reasoning (C.E.R.) to structure your response.

September 12, 2024

September 13, 2024

2. Sphero BOLT

September 12, 2024

Agenda

1. Journal Audit

Everyone needs to make sure that there journal is properly setup and that all entries have been written. There are three prompts that were assigned previously and a fourth prompt from today.

September 4, 2024

Answer the following in your GitHub Journal:

  1. List 3 sensors found on the Sphero BOLT
  2. Choose one of the sensors, and write a paragraph explaining how that sensor functions.

Note: In your paragraph, describe how the sensor you chose works and how it helps the Sphero BOLT operate. Does it measure light, speed, direction, or something else? Provide details about how the sensor gathers data and how the robot uses that information to move or react to its surroundings. Try to give an example of how this sensor might be used in a specific activity or challenge.

Remember to use the appropriate structure so that you receive credit for your work.

September 10, 2024

Reflecting on Our GitHub Journal Process

As a class, we followed the instructions to set up our GitHub journals. However, only a small number of journals were set up in a way that I could access them. Let’s figure out together what went wrong and how we can improve the process.

Please share your thoughts, as we’ll use this feedback to make sure everyone’s journals are properly set up moving forward.

September 11, 2024

In your digital GitHub journal, write a paragraph explaining why following instructions exactly as they are given is important when learning how to code?

In your response, consider the following:

Remember to use Claim, Evidence, and Reasoning (C.E.R.) to structure your response.

September 12, 2024

2. Sphero BOLT

September 11, 2024

Agenda

1. Sphero BOLT

2. Daily GitHub Journal Entry

In your digital GitHub journal, write a paragraph explaining why following instructions exactly as they are given is important when learning how to code?

In your response, consider the following:

Remember to use Claim, Evidence, and Reasoning (C.E.R.) to structure your response.

September 10, 2024

Agenda

Weekly Journal Prompt

Reflecting on Our GitHub Journal Process

As a class, we followed the instructions to set up our GitHub journals. However, only a small number of journals were set up in a way that I could access them. Let’s figure out together what went wrong and how we can improve the process.

Please share your thoughts, as we’ll use this feedback to make sure everyone’s journals are properly set up moving forward.

September 9, 2024

Agenda

1. Sphero BOLT

September 6, 2024

Agenda

1. Sphero BOLT

2. Journal Entry

Answer the following in your GitHub Journal:

  1. List 3 sensors found on the Sphero BOLT
  2. Choose one of the sensors, and write a paragraph explaining how that sensor functions.

Note: In your paragraph, describe how the sensor you chose works and how it helps the Sphero BOLT operate. Does it measure light, speed, direction, or something else? Provide details about how the sensor gathers data and how the robot uses that information to move or react to its surroundings. Try to give an example of how this sensor might be used in a specific activity or challenge.

Remember to use the appropriate structure so that you receive credit for your work.

# September 6, 2024

First use the date as your heading. Then start writing your journal entry below the
date. If you do not use this format, the grading program will not recognize your
entry.

September 5, 2024

Agenda

1. Sphero BOLT

2. Journal Entry

Answer the following in your GitHub Journal:

  1. List 3 sensors found on the Sphero BOLT
  2. Choose one of the sensors, and write a paragraph explaining how that sensor functions.

Note: In your paragraph, describe how the sensor you chose works and how it helps the Sphero BOLT operate. Does it measure light, speed, direction, or something else? Provide details about how the sensor gathers data and how the robot uses that information to move or react to its surroundings. Try to give an example of how this sensor might be used in a specific activity or challenge.

Remember to use the appropriate structure so that you receive credit for your work.

# September 5, 2024

First use the date as your heading. Then start writing your journal entry below the
date. If you do not use this format, the grading program will not recognize your
entry.

September 4, 2024

Agenda

1. GitHub Account and User Names Form

If you have not yet created a GitHub account, please do so and submit the Google form with your username. Ask me for the QR code if you need it.

2. Sphero BOLT

3. Journal Entry

Answer the following in your GitHub Journal:

  1. List 3 sensors found on the Sphero BOLT
  2. Choose one of the sensors, and write a paragraph explaining how that sensor functions.

Note: In your paragraph, describe how the sensor you chose works and how it helps the Sphero BOLT operate. Does it measure light, speed, direction, or something else? Provide details about how the sensor gathers data and how the robot uses that information to move or react to its surroundings. Try to give an example of how this sensor might be used in a specific activity or challenge.

Remember to use the appropriate structure so that you receive credit for your work.

# September 4, 2024

First use the date as your heading. Then start writing your journal entry below the
date. If you do not use this format, the grading program will not recognize your
entry.