NEW: Introduction to Computer Science (ICS-PLTW) (1 Credit PAR, Gr. 9-12)

Designed to be the first computer science course for students who have never programmed before, ICS is an optional starting point for the PLTW Computer Science program. Students work in teams to create apps for mobile devices using MIT App Inventor®. They explore the impact of computing in society and build skills in digital citizenship and cybersecurity. Beyond learning the fundamentals of programming, students build computational thinking skills by applying computer science to collaboration tools, modeling and simulation, and data analysis. In addition, students transfer the understanding of programming gained in App Inventor to text-based programming in Python® and apply their knowledge to create algorithms for games of chance and strategy.

NEW: Computer Science & Software Engineering (CSE-PLTW) (1 Credit PAR, Gr. 10-12)

Prerequisite: Introduction to Computer Science

 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. While this course can be a student's first in computer science, students without prior computing experience are encouraged to start with Introduction to Computer Science. CSE helps students develop programming expertise and explore the workings of the Internet. Projects and problems include app development, visualization of data, cybersecurity, and simulation. The course curriculum is a College Board-approved implementation of AP CS Principles. 

NEW: Computer Science Applications (CSA-PLTW) (1 Credit PAR, Gr. 11-12)

Prerequisite: Computer Science & Software Engineering

CSA focuses on further developing computational thinking skills through the medium of Android™ App development for mobile platforms. The course utilizes industry-standard tools such as Android Studio, Java™ programming language, XML, and device emulators. Students collaborate to create original solutions to problems of their own choosing by designing and implementing user interfaces and Web-based databases. The course curriculum is a College Board-approved implementation of AP CS A.

COMING IN 2017-18: Simulation & Modeling, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity