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Ms. Whitby's Classroom

March 31, 2025

1. Journal Prompt: Wellness & Mindset Check

[!IMPORTANT]

Your journal is public on GitHub. If you want to share something personal or private, please email me or talk to me in person instead of posting it in your journal. I’m here for you and want to support you in any way I can.

As we enter the final stretch of the school year and prepare for STAAR testing, it’s normal to feel a mix of emotions—stress, excitement, pressure, even exhaustion. This week’s journal is all about checking in with you.

Write about the following:

  1. How are you feeling right now—mentally, emotionally, and physically?

  2. What’s been the most stressful part of school lately?

  3. What are some things you do (or could do) to take care of yourself during stressful times?

  4. What’s one goal you have for the rest of the school year? How will you stay motivated to reach it?

  5. Who is someone you can talk to when you’re feeling overwhelmed? Why do you trust them?

You don’t have to have all the answers—just be honest. This is your space.

March 24, 2025

1. Journal Prompt: Technology and March Madness

Write two paragraphs considering the following:

“March Madness, the annual NCAA basketball tournament, has increasingly integrated advanced technologies to enhance both gameplay and the fan experience. From the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in predicting game outcomes to the implementation of augmented reality (AR) in broadcasting, technology is reshaping how we engage with sports. Reflect on how these technological advancements have influenced your perception of the tournament. Do you believe AI-driven predictions, such as those attempting to create perfect brackets, add excitement or detract from the unpredictability that makes March Madness thrilling? Additionally, consider the role of social media platforms and streaming services in transforming fan engagement during the tournament. How do these changes impact the traditional viewing experience and your connection to the games?”

March 17, 2025

1. Journal Prompt: Technology Over Spring Break

Over spring break, you likely used technology in different ways—whether for entertainment, communication, creativity, or learning. Reflect on how you interacted with technology during your time off.

Write at least two full paragraphs responding to these questions. Be specific in your examples and connections.

March 3, 2025

1. Journal: Heroes Underground Logic Puzzle

Name Power Challenge
Zara    
Aether    
Thorne    
Silver    
Tangier    

February 24, 2025

1. Journal Prompt

Language evolves rapidly, and slang plays a major role in how young people communicate. For teachers, counselors, social workers, and other professionals who work with youth, understanding slang can help build connections and improve communication. Consider the following:

Write two paragraphs exploring how technology could bridge generational language gaps while maintaining professionalism and cultural awareness.

February 18, 2025

1. Journal Prompt

What’s the most interesting thing you learned last week? It could be from this class, another subject, a conversation, a YouTube video, or even something you discovered on your own. Explain what it was, how you learned it, and why you found it interesting.

February 11, 2025

Journal - Student’s Choice

For this week’s journal you may choose either the logic puzzle or the writing prompt. You do not have to do both!

Writing Prompt ### Prompt The Super Bowl generates massive amounts of data, from player stats to real-time analytics used for coaching decisions. Many teams use **machine learning and AI** to analyze past performances and predict the best plays. **Imagine you are a software developer working for an NFL team.** Your task is to design an application that helps coaches make better in-game decisions using real-time data. Write **TWO** paragraphs explaining your idea. If you're not sure where to start, consider the following: 1. What **features** would your application include? 2. What type of **data structures** (e.g., lists, dictionaries, databases) would you use to store player performance statistics? 3. How could **algorithms** (such as sorting, searching, or machine learning models) help analyze the data to improve decision-making? 4. If you were to visualize the data, what kind of **graphs or dashboards** would you create? Be sure to explain your choices and how they would help a team gain a competitive advantage. You can also explore the NFL's [Next Gen Stats](https://nextgenstats.nfl.com/) page to see examples how the league uses data.
Logic Puzzle ### Puzzle - You can find the puzzle here: [Colors And Shapes Logic Puzzle](https://daydreampuzzles.com/logic-puzzles/colors-and-shapes/) - Once you solve the puzzle, submit the solution in your journal as a [Markdown Table](https://www.markdownguide.org/extended-syntax/#tables). | Shape | Color | Count | | -------- | ----- | ----- | | Circle | | | | Square | | | | Hexagon | | | | Triangle | | | | Octagon | | |

February 3, 2025

1. Journal Prompt

On January 29, a tragic mid-air collision occurred over Washington, D.C., claiming the lives of 67 people, including military personnel and young athletes returning from a competition. While we mourn this loss, tragedies like this also push us to examine what went wrong and how we can prevent similar events in the future. In aviation, technology plays a crucial role in ensuring safety—yet when systems fail, the consequences can be devastating.

Technology is a key part of modern aviation, from air traffic control systems to automated flight assistance. However, even the most advanced systems can fail. Based on the recent mid-air collision over Washington, D.C., discuss how Computer Science contributes to aviation safety. Consider software development, automation, cybersecurity, or human-computer interaction. What improvements could be made to prevent accidents like this in the future?

Possible Connections to Computer Science

  1. Air Traffic Control Systems – How do computer algorithms manage airspace and prevent collisions?
  2. Automation & AI in Aviation – The role of autopilot systems, real-time alerts, and AI-driven decision-making.
  3. Software Errors & Bugs – How can coding flaws or miscommunication between different software systems contribute to accidents?
  4. Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) – Did poor interface design or unclear alerts play a role in the crash?
  5. Cybersecurity in Aviation – Could hacking, jamming, or cyber vulnerabilities pose risks in air traffic management?
  6. Big Data & Predictive Analytics – How could machine learning be used to predict and prevent accidents?

Write two (2) paragraphs exploring how technology can integration can provided for increased aviation safety. You can use one or more of the six areas listed above, or you can choose another relevant topic of your interest.

January 27, 2025

Apprentice Mechanic Mishaps Logic Puzzle

Directions

Clues

Four apprentice mechanics work at Rusty’s Repair Shop. They are generally well-regarded by management, but last week with less supervision there were some mistakes that led to a number of angry customers. Using the clues provided, can you determine which apprentice worked on which car, and the mistake that was made?

  1. Bart didn’t work on the Sierra, nor did he leave the oil cap off.
  2. The four apprentices are Kayla, the one who worked on the Honda Civic, the one who left the oil cap off, and the one who left stains on the carpet.
  3. The receptionist was in tears after dealing with the customer who had found a hole was accidentally drilled in their gas tank (oops!). This wasn’t the Sierra.
  4. Jimmy didn’t leave the oil cap off nor leave stains on the carpet of the vehicle he worked on.
  5. Harrison worked on the Forester, and disliked every minute of it.

January 22, 2025

The TikTok Ban and Its Implications for Technology and Security

Prompt:

Recently, TikTok faced a potential nationwide ban in the United States due to national security concerns over its ownership by the Chinese company ByteDance. The situation raises important questions about the intersection of technology, privacy, and government regulation.

Reflect on the following:

Submission Instructions:

January 13, 2025

Read this article: Why The Once-Mighty Tech Career Is No Longer Safe

Write a paragraph reflecting on the following: The tech industry is shifting towards prioritizing artificial intelligence (AI) skills over traditional tech roles. What are your thoughts on this shift? Do you think AI tools will enhance opportunities for workers or limit them? How would you prepare yourself for a career in a rapidly changing job market like this one?

January 8, 2025

  1. Looking Back:

    Reflect on last semester. What did you enjoy most about the class? What could be improved? Feel free to share any specific feedback about the lessons, projects, or activities we did.

  2. Looking Ahead:

    As we start this semester, what are some topics, activities, or projects you’d like to explore? Is there anything specific you’d like to learn or work on?

  3. Certifications:

    Are you interested in pursuing any certifications related to this class (e.g., Python, Unity, or other tech certifications)? If yes, what support or resources would help you feel prepared to achieve this goal?

December 16, 2024

Are you looking forward to the winter break

December 9, 2024

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 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 18, 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 12, 2024

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

  1. In a paragraph, briefly summarize the event and explain how it relates to any of the concepts we’ve been learning in class (e.g., problem-solving, technology, or data analysis).
  2. In a second paragraph, reflect on how advancements in computer science or technology could play a role in addressing this event or similar issues in the future.

November 4, 2024

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.

October 28, 2024

Assigned Due
October 28, 2024 November 1, 2024

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 21, 2024

Assigned Due
October 21, 2024 October 25, 2024

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 15, 2024

Assigned Due
October 15, 2024 October 18, 2024

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 7, 2024

Assigned Due
October 7, 2024 October 15, 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?

September 30, 2024

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?

September 23, 2024

Assigned Due
September 23, 2024 September 27, 2024

Periods 1, 5, 6, 7, & Practicum

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.

Periods 3 & 4

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 16, 2024

Assigned Due
September 16, 2024 September 20, 2024

Write the following as your journal entry: This is a free week.

September 9, 2024

Assigned Due
September 9, 2024 September 13, 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 3, 2024

Assigned Due
September 3, 2024 September 6, 2024

Periods 1, 3, 4, & 6 - Sphero BOLT

  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.

5th Period - Game Programming

Think about a video game that you enjoy playing. In a paragraph or more, describe the aspects of that game that make it enjoyable or successful.

Note: Consider elements like gameplay mechanics, graphics, storyline, music, and character design. Why do you think these aspects work well together, and how do they contribute to the overall experience of the game? Be as specific as possible in your analysis.

5th Period - App Development

Think about a mobile or web application that you use frequently. In a paragraph or more, describe the features of the app that make it useful or enjoyable to use.

Note: Consider elements such as the user interface (UI), design, ease of use, functionality, performance, and any unique features that set it apart. How do these aspects work together to provide a good user experience? Be specific in your analysis, and think about how these ideas could inform your own app development projects.

7th Period, Practicum, Independent Study and other Python Students

In a paragraph or more, reflect on your experience learning Python so far. What do you find most interesting or challenging about the language?

Note: Think about the basic concepts you’ve learned, such as variables, data types, or loops. How do you think these fundamentals will help you as you continue to learn more advanced programming concepts? Provide specific examples from your experience to explain your thoughts.

August 27, 2024

This is an example journal entry. There is no prompt this week.