Course Syllabus

Computer Studies 8Syllabus

Faculty

Section Teacher
D Mr. Teichroeb
E Mr. Teichroeb

Contacting Me

If you need to reach me, please email or come to my office during office hours:

  • Name: Reid Teichroeb
  • Email: rteichroeb@stgeorges.bc.ca
  • Office: 202
  • Office Hours: Connection Block and M/W/F After school

Course Description

Computer Studies 8 is designed to help students develop a greater understanding of technology through an introduction to computational thinking, computing technology, and digital literacy. Through the exploration of programming software, hardware, data science, and applying AI, students will strengthen their curiosity for the world of computer studies. Risk-taking and creative thinking will be strongly emphasized using the design thinking model.

First Peoples Principles of Learning

In accordance with the BC Curriculum, this course is grounded in the First Peoples Principles of Learning. We recognize that:

  • Learning involves patience and time: We embrace the iterative nature of coding and design, recognizing that mastery comes through reflection and repeated effort.
  • Learning involves generational roles and responsibilities: We foster a classroom culture of mentorship where students share expertise and support their peers' growth.
  • Learning is holistic, reflexive, reflective, experiential, and relational: Our digital projects are connected to real-world impacts and personal identity.

Course Expectations

St. George’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) Guidelines can be found in the Student Code of Conduct.

St. George’s School expects all students at the Senior School to be interested and motivated in achieving their personal best while at the School. We expect students will be engaged in their endeavours, responsible to their studies, classmates and teachers, and demonstrate integrity in their pursuit of learning.

Workload

The workload of this course is expected to be:

  • Time will be given in class for all assignments and project work
  • Students may expect to spend up to 0.5 hr/day at home completing work not finished in class or reviewing class content

Instructional Aims and Learning Outcomes

Aligned with the B.C. ADST 8 Curriculum, students will demonstrate proficiency in the following areas:

  • Computational Thinking: Applying algorithms, abstraction, and pattern recognition to solve problems in both block-based and Python environments.
  • The Design Process: Engaging in user-centered research, iterative prototyping, and rigorous testing/refining of original digital products.
  • Digital Literacy & Programming: Developing technical fluency in Python syntax and block-based logic to create interactive games and tools.
  • Data Analysis: Collecting, analyzing, and visually representing data to make informed decisions and identify trends.
  • Impact of Technology: Critically examining the ethical, social, and cultural consequences of technology on individuals and the global community.

Assessment and Evaluation

A student's final mark will be determined by evaluation of their ability to demonstrate proficiency in these learning outcomes.

Outcome Description Weight
Research & Planning Utilizing the "Ask, Brainstorm, Plan" phases of design thinking to organize project goals. 25%
Testing & Refining The iterative process of debugging, gathering feedback, and improving prototypes over time. 25%
Computational Thinking Demonstrating logic through Block Coding (10%) and Python (10%). 20%
Python Syntax The ability to write clean, functional, and efficient text-based code. 10%
Data Analysis Analyzing and interpreting datasets to draw meaningful conclusions. 10%
Impact of Technology Communicating an understanding of how technology affects society and personal well-being. 10%

Adjustments may be made throughout the year. Any adjustments will be posted here and discussed as a class.

Literacy

In this course, students will be introduced to the design thinking model, which will require them to observe, ask questions, analyse information, evaluate their prototypes and communicate their processes. Students will also be required to comprehend information presented orally, textually, and visually to gain an understanding of key course content and concepts, and to learn key skills. Finally, students will be asked to give oral presentations, visually represent data and ideas, and share written versions of their ideas.

Learning Resources

Resources that will be used as part of this course include:

Extension Resources

Helpful resources that students can use to extend their learning in this course include:

Canvas Information

Canvas is where course content, grades, and communication will reside for this course.