Unit 0 Big Question:
What is Computer Science?
Unit 0 Overview
Lesson 0.4:
Pair Programming
Lesson 0.3:
Growth Mindset
Lesson 0.1:
Why Does Computer Science Matter?
Lesson 0.2:
What is a Computer Program?
Lesson 0.5:
Welcome to Scratch
Unit 0 Daily Routine
Lesson 0.1
Warm Up - Do Now
Unit 0: Getting Started with Computer Science
Launch: Lesson 0.1
Today, we will start our journey in computer science. We’ll be starting to explore what computer science is, and why it is important.
Real-World Connections
So, what is computer science, and why does it matter? Why is this class important, and what will you learn? These are all great questions!
Real-World Connections
Let’s watch this video together. What do these people think about computer science?
Real-World Connections
Let’s discuss:
Computer science impacts people and their lives!
It is a way to solve problems, be creative and express yourself, help people, and make our world a better place.
Lesson 0.1
Guided Lesson
Unit 0: Getting Started with Computer Science
Real-World Connections
In this class, we’ll start many of our lessons by watching a short video relating to computer science, technology, and the real world.
Real-World Connections
We’ll hear from people who use computer science in their daily lives. They’ll explain important computer science ideas to us, and sharing their stories and experiences.
What is Computer Science?
So, what is computer science, and why does it matter?
What is Computer Science?
Computer science is about how the power of computers can help solve problems.
In this class, you will learn computer science and become coders - and start learning how to make computers do what you want it to do.
Where is Computer Science Used?
Computer science is used nearly everywhere! So many jobs today rely on computer scientists to help make things work. Computer science has an impact on:
...and so much more!
Pre-Coding Connection
So, how do computer scientists communicate with computers? And, in this class, and how can we learn to use computers and make them do what we want?
We have to learn how to talk to computers in a language they are designed to understand.
Pre-Coding Connection
One way to give instructions to a computer is through an algorithm.
An algorithm is a list of steps in a particular order that describe how to complete a task.
We use algorithms already in our daily lives. Let’s look at some examples.
Pre-Coding Connection
For example, an algorithm to prepare a bowl of cereal might be:
Pre-Coding Connection
Giving someone directions to a location is another example of an algorithm! You might list out the directions to walk to school as an algorithm:
Vocabulary
algorithm (n): a set of steps to complete a task
What is Code?
Just like when we give instructions to other people, when we want a computer to perform a task, we need to give it an algorithm to follow.
We write the instructions for the computer using code - a language which the computer is designed to understand.
Vocabulary
code (n): language that can be understood by a computer
Creating Algorithms
Today we’re going to practice making and running algorithms to complete a series of challenges.
We’ll a simple code to make our algorithms, then watch as our computers follow the instructions we gave them!
What if I Get Stuck?
Writing code is hard sometimes! Even very experienced programmers get stuck.
How can you find a way forward, when you can’t work out what you need to do to make your algorithm work?
What if I Get Stuck?
Some ideas:
What if I Get Stuck?
If you’ve tried all of that and are still stuck, ask someone more experienced, like a teacher, to help point you in the right direction.
Good luck, and remember to keep on trying!
Lesson 0.1
Activity
Unit 0: Getting Started with Computer Science
Choose either Option, unplugged or online
Picture this - unplugged
Option A
Unplugged
Roles: Robot and Programmer. (You will play both roles twice)
-Programmer decides on “artwork”. examples.
Robot and Programmer can not see each other’s work.
Ist Round: Robot may not ask questions. After 2 minutes show drawing.
2nd Round: New Art. This time the Robot can ask questions. After 2 minutes show drawing.
Switch roles.
Try out any of the activities.
Spanish Blocky? Change URL from lang=en to lang=es
Option B
Online
Lesson 0.1
Close Out
Unit 0: Getting Started with Computer Science
Let’s Review! Lesson Vocabulary
Why Does Computer Science Matter?