Grade 8: Introduction to Computer Science & Robotics

Length of Course: Semester - Part Time

Course Description:

Students will learn to design, build, program, and run NXT robotic bricks using Lego Mindstorms kits. Through the curriculum, students will learn simple machine concepts while developing an understanding of mechanical principles and related problem-solving skills.

Course Overview:

1. What is Computer Science?

What is a Computer?
Humans and Computers
Applications and Uses
What is a communication system?
- System:Input>Processing>Output
- Sender>Encoding>Message>Decoding>Recipient

2. Problem-Solving and Logic

Introduction to Problem Solving Process
Logic
- If…then statements

3. Representing information (encoding)

Basic Computer Language
- Binary Code
- Bits
- Bytes
- Pixels
Algorithms and Procedures
Looping and Randomization
Variables
Conditionals
Booleans

4. Computer Science in Practice

Robotics
App Creation
Animation
- Sprites and Images

GRADING – The student’s academic grade is based on the following categories: The grades are weighted as follows:
Classroom Assessments
Tests, quizzes, & projects ….…………………………………………….…... 80%

Learning Assignments
Classwork and homework...………………………………………….....……. 20%

Rubrics are provided for assignments, Common Assessments, Tests, Quizzes, in-class homework assignments, class participation (collaboration), and attendance.

Common Core Standards

Ratios and Proportional Relationships 8RP

Analyze proportional relationships and use them to solve real-world and mathematical problems.

1. Compute unit rates associated with ratios of fractions, including ratios of lengths, areas, and other quantities measured in like or different units

2. Recognize and represent proportional relationships between quantities.
b.Identify the constant of proportionality (unit rate) in tables, graphs, equations, diagrams, and verbal

descriptions of proportional relationships.

Expressions and Equations 8EE

Solve real-life and mathematical problems using numerical and algebraic expressions and equations.

4. Use variables to represent quantities in a real-world or mathematical problem, and construct simple equations

and inequalities to solve problems by reasoning about the quantities.

Geometry 8G

Draw, construct, and describe geometrical figures and describe the relationships between them.

2. Draw (freehand, with ruler and protractor, and with technology) geometric shapes with given conditions. Focus on constructing triangles from three measures of angles or sides, noticing when the conditions determine a unique triangle, more than one triangle, or no triangle.

ITEEA Standards

ISTE Standards

3. Knowledge Constructor
Students critically curate a variety of resources using digital tools to construct knowledge, produced creative artifacts, and make meaningful learning experiences for themselves and others. Students:
d. build knowledge by actively exploring real-world issues and problems, developing ideas and theories and

pursuing answers and solutions

4. Innovative Designer
Students use a variety of technologies within a design process to identify and solve problems by creating new, useful, or imaginative solutions. Students:
a. know and use a deliberate design process for generating ideas, testing theories, creating innovative

artifacts, or solving authentic problems
c. develop, test, and reﬁne prototypes as part of a cyclical design process.

5. Computational Thinker
Students develop and employ strategies for understanding and solving problems in ways that leverage the power of technological methods to develop and test solutions. Students:
a. formulate problem deﬁnitions suited for technology-assisted methods such as data analysis, abstract

models, and algorithmic thinking in exploring and ﬁnding solutions

6. Creative Communicator
Students communicate clearly and express themselves creatively for a variety of purposes using the platforms, tools, styles, formats, and digital media appropriate to their goals. Students:
a. choose the appropriate platforms and tools for meeting the desired objectives of their creation or

communication
b. create original works or responsibly repurpose or remix digital resources into new creations.

Academic Expectations Addressed

Communication Skills
All students will evidence a comprehension of complex literary and informational texts, appropriate academic vocabulary, and accurate grammar, through the techniques of:
3. Informational Writing

Problem Solving and Critical Thinking Skills
All students will evidence the guiding principles of focus and coherence of these skills through the techniques of:
2. Geometry
3. Scientific Inquiry
4. Technology/Engineering Design