This course introduces students to computer programming concepts and practices. Students will write and test computer programs, using various problem-solving strategies. They will learn the fundamentals of program design and apply a software development life-cycle model to a software development project. Students will also learn about computer environments and systems, and explore environmental issues related to computers, safe computing practices, emerging technologies, and postsecondary opportunities in computer-related fields. (The Ontario Curriculum Grades 10 to 12 Computer Studies - Revised (2008))

Prerequisite: None

Overall Expectations

Programming Concepts and Skills

1. demonstrate the ability to use different data types in expressions in simple computer programs;
2. demonstrate the ability to use control structures and simple algorithms in computer programs;
3. use proper code maintenance techniques and conventions when creating computer programs.

Software Development

1. use a variety of problem-solving strategies to solve different types of problems;
2. design software solutions to meet a variety of challenges, using a set of standards;
3. design simple algorithms according to specifications;
4. apply a software development life-cycle model to a software development project.

Computer Environments and Systems

1. demonstrate an understanding of the functions of different types of computer components;
2. use appropriate file maintenance practices to organize and safeguard data;
3. use a software development environment to write and run computer programs.

Computers and Society

1. describe computer use policies that promote environmental stewardship and sustainability;
2. describe and apply procedures for safe computing to safeguard computer users and their data;
3. explain key aspects of the impact that emerging technologies have on society;
4. describe postsecondary education and career prospects related to computer studies.

Students will be assessed and evaluated using the standard province-wide achievement chart that identifies four categories of knowledge and skills in Computer Studies.

Rubrics will be provided.

The breakdown of the course is:

Knowledge and Understanding 25%

Thinking and Inquiry 25%

Communication 20%

Application 30%

70 % Term Work + 15% Culminating Activity + 15% Final Exam

(DPCDSB values and weightings were Revised in June 2009)

• Students must like solving problems
• Students must want to learn how to program
• Students must be willing to work in groups and on their own as per the situation
• Students must use a Gmail account to back up their work
• Students will create a Scratch account for their work
• Students will not be able to use the computer lab unless they sign the handbook's user agreement.
• Plagiarism of any kind will result in a mark of 0 in all categories.
• If a student cannot explain their code, or pseudo-code, the assignment will be considered plagiarized.
• All assignments must be submitted in the form of source code. Complied binaries will not be accepted.
• All assignments will follow appropriate course naming and documentation conventions.
• Late work will be handled as per the student handbook.
• Students must be active learners. Participation is critical to success.
• Be positive, timely, inquisitive, and willing to be challenged. Respect yourself, others and the lab.
• Remember that this is an C level course, and it will be taught in a variety of styles including, demos, lecture, hands-on programming, presentation, pseudo-code writing, team work and individual study.
• Students will be given ample time in which they can plan and execute their solutions in class. The use of a home computer is not necessary for successful completion of this course.