ECS (Period 3) Assignments
- Instructors
- Term
- 2011-2012 School Year
- Department
- Computers
- Location
- 208
- Description
-
What is Exploring Computer Science?
A one-year college-preparatory course:
- Appropriate for 10-12th graders who have completed Algebra I
- Rigorous curriculum that develops high-level computing skills
- Real world, socially relevant, interdisciplinary, and creative applications of computing
- Approved as a “g” elective with Career Technical Education credit by the University of California Office of the President
An Introduction to Exploring Computer ScienceECS is part of a nationwide movement to bring computer science into our high schools. Unlike any other computer course offered in LAUSD, Exploring Computer Science moves beyond the minimal skill sets to teach students a wider range of computational thinking and problem solving skills.Scope and Sequence
Exploring Computer Science is a yearlong course consisting of 6 units, approximately 6 weeks each. The course units draw on the curricular framework listed in Levels II and III of the ACM’s A Model Curriculum for K-12 Computer Science (2003). Assignments and instruction are contextualized to be socially relevant and meaningful for diverse students. Units utilize a variety of tools/platforms, and culminate with final projects around the following topics:
- Human Computer Interaction: Students are introduced to the major components of the computer, including: input, output, memory, storage, processing, software, and the operating system. Students consider how Internet elements (e.g. email, chat, WWW) are organized, engage in effective searching, and focus on productive use of email. Fundamental notions of Human Computer Interaction (HCI) and ergonomics are introduced. Students learn that “intelligent” machine behavior is not “magic” but is based on algorithms applied to useful representations of information. Students learn the characteristics that make certain tasks easy or difficult for computers, and how these differ from those that humans characteristically find easy or difficult. Students gain an appreciation for the many ways (types of use) in which computers have had an impact across the range of human activity, as well as for the many different fields in which they are used. Examples illustrate the broad, interdisciplinary utility of computers and algorithmic problem solving in the modern world.
- Problem Solving: This unit covers the basic steps in algorithmic problem-solving, including the problem statement and exploration, examination of sample instances, design, program coding, testing, and verification. Tools for expressing design are used. This unit also includes selected topics in discrete mathematics including (but not limited to) Boolean logic, functions, sets, and graphs. Students are introduced to the binary number system. Students construct complex expressions based on fundamental Boolean operations and learn how to relate the mathematical notion of functions to its counterparts in computer programming. They learn basic set theory and its application in computer science. Students are introduced to graphs using puzzles. Suitable exercises are presented that illustrate the value of mathematical abstraction in solving programming problems.
- Web Design: This section prepares students to take the role of a developer by expanding their knowledge of programming and Web page design and applying it to the creation of Web pages, programs, and documentation for users and equipment. Students learn to create user-friendly manuals, Web sites, and program interfaces. Students apply fundamental notions of Human Computer Interaction (HCI) and ergonomics. Code documentation and hardware and software limitations are also explored. The notions of hierarchy and abstraction are central to computing. They are crucial to the translation between machine code and a user-friendly interface, to creating reusable code, and to the design of software that is broadly applicable rather than solving only a narrowly defined problem. This unit makes these abstract ideas concrete by focusing first on real-life (non-computing) examples, and then on the specific uses of hierarchy and abstraction in computer science.
- Programming: Students are introduced to some basic issues associated with program design and development. Students design algorithms and programming solutions to a variety of computational problems, using Scratch. Programming problems should include control structures, functions, parameters, objects and classes, structured programming and event-driven programming techniques. This unit introduces data structures, including arrays, vectors, stacks, and queues, and their associated components, operations, and uses. Benefits and limitations of different data structures are presented. The concept that analysis and understanding of data structures can be used as a fundamental organizing principle in the design of solutions is explored.
- Computing and Data Analysis: In this unit students explore how computing has facilitated new methods of managing and interpreting data. Students will use computers to translate, process and visualize data in order to find patterns and test hypotheses. Students will work with a variety of large data sets that illustrate how widespread access to data and information facilitates identification of problems. Students will collect and generate their own data related to local community issues and discuss appropriate methods for data collection and aggregation of data necessary to support making a case or facilitating a discovery.
- Robotics: Students apply previously learned topics to the study of robotics and work in small groups to build and program a robot to perform a required task. Students make use of a programming language to control the behavior of these robots in dynamic environments. As a class (or a district) they will test out their robots under a specific set of circumstances in a robotics competition.
Upcoming Assignments
No upcoming assignments.
Past Assignments
Due:
Assignment
PRINT DAILY JOURNAL (2ND SEMESTER, 10-WEEK)
Print Range: May 8 thru June 11 (last three entries)
You should have three (3) entries.
Points will be deducted for improper printing. (don't waste paper or ink)
Print Range: May 8 thru June 11 (last three entries)
You should have three (3) entries.
Points will be deducted for improper printing. (don't waste paper or ink)
Due:
Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
Reflect on your experience and learning with the Robotics Dance Competition.
Tell me the good, the bad and the ugly.
- What was fun about it? What wasn't? Or are you indifferent?
- Did you learn anything of value? Or was it a waste of time?
- Was it a rewarding experience? Frustrating? Annoying? Exhilarating? Or . . .?
- What would you do differently if you could do it over?
Due:
Assignment
Due:
Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
View the following Ted Talk:
- What are your thoughts?
- Do your share his concerns?
- What, if any, are the solutions?
Due:
Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
Los Angeles Times, May 6, 2012
by Karin Klein
Read the article: Does my writing compute?
Do you agree or disagree with Klein's conclusion, "But if the scoring process cannot measure whether a student has melded fact, thought and verbal grace into cohesive written form, we might as well stick with having students fill in the bubbles."?
Cite specific references from the article to support your opinion.
Secondly, speak to the issue of having your writing evaluated by a computer.
Due:
Assignment
ROBOTICS PROGRAMMING - THE COMPLETE PALETTE
Group Leaders - Download and Save the attached file to your shared group folder.
Read the directions, and discuss with group.
Begin programming your Robot and complete the debriefing sheet as you do.
Print when complete.
Group Leaders - Download and Save the attached file to your shared group folder.
Read the directions, and discuss with group.
Begin programming your Robot and complete the debriefing sheet as you do.
Print when complete.
Due:
Assignment
ROBOTICS PROGRAMMING - DATA LOGGING
Group Leaders - Download and Save the attached file to your shared group folder.
Read the directions, and discuss with group.
Begin programming your Robot and complete the debriefing sheet as you do.
Print when complete.
Group Leaders - Download and Save the attached file to your shared group folder.
Read the directions, and discuss with group.
Begin programming your Robot and complete the debriefing sheet as you do.
Print when complete.
Due:
Assignment
ROBOTICS PROGRAMMING - THE COMMON PALETTE
Group Leaders - Download and Save the attached file to your shared group folder.
Read the directions, and discuss with group.
Begin programming your Robot and complete the debriefing sheet as you do.
Print when complete.
Group Leaders - Download and Save the attached file to your shared group folder.
Read the directions, and discuss with group.
Begin programming your Robot and complete the debriefing sheet as you do.
Print when complete.
Due:
Assignment
PRINT DAILY JOURNAL (2ND SEMESTER, 10-WEEK)
Print Range: Tuesday, March 20 thru Monday, March 26
You should have three (3) entries.
Points will be deducted for improper printing. (don't waste paper or ink)
Print Range: Tuesday, March 20 thru Monday, March 26
You should have three (3) entries.
Points will be deducted for improper printing. (don't waste paper or ink)
Due:
Assignment
ROBOTICS - BUILDING
Group Members - You should have received the attached file in your email.
Read the directions, and complete the debriefing individually as you go.
Build your Robot as a team.
Group Members - You should have received the attached file in your email.
Read the directions, and complete the debriefing individually as you go.
Build your Robot as a team.
Due:
Assignment
Lego Mindstorms Robot Kit Agreement Letter
This letter must be returned signed on Monday, March 26 to participate in the Robotics Unit
Failure to return the letter will mean you will have to set this activity out until you do.
You will receive a fail for any activities you miss due to your failure to return the signed agreement letter.
To remove all excuses, I have emailed you a copy of the agreement letter.
Explore the LEGO MindStorms Site
This letter must be returned signed on Monday, March 26 to participate in the Robotics Unit
Failure to return the letter will mean you will have to set this activity out until you do.
You will receive a fail for any activities you miss due to your failure to return the signed agreement letter.
To remove all excuses, I have emailed you a copy of the agreement letter.
Explore the LEGO MindStorms Site
Due:
Assignment
Due:
Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
Reflect on last week's activities relating to Robotic Design Challenges.
What design challenge is demonstrated by each activity? Discuss each activity separately.
Due:
Assignment
COMPLETE "ARE WE ROBOTS" ACTIVITY
In your groups, read and discuss the handout: What is a Robot?
Then, discuss and complete the activity worksheet: Are we Robots?
Add 5 machine objects to the activity sheet.
In your groups, read and discuss the handout: What is a Robot?
Then, discuss and complete the activity worksheet: Are we Robots?
Add 5 machine objects to the activity sheet.
Due:
Assignment
CLASS ACTIVITIES: DESIGN AND PROGRAMMING CHALLENGES IN ROBOTIC DESIGN
Tying Shoes - Robot Style
Walk Like a Robot
Write directions which direct your robot to complete a predetermined course.
You may use only the following 5 commands to accomplish this activity:
Tying Shoes - Robot Style
- Have one member of your group attempt to tie a pair of shoes with their eyes close.
- Make note of the difficulties they encounter
- Have another member attempt this with their thumb and index finger taped together and their other three fingers taped together.
- Discuss the difficulties encountered. What should we learn about Robotic design from this activity?
Walk Like a Robot
Write directions which direct your robot to complete a predetermined course.
You may use only the following 5 commands to accomplish this activity:
- turn left 90*
- turn right 90*
- take a step forward with the left foot
- take a step forward with the right foot
- stop
- (you may include conditionals - eg. if, when)
Robots should only follow these commands, and ignore others.
What can we learn about the challenges programmers face when developing robotics programs?
Due:
Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
Now, let's search the Internet.
Search the Internet for a more formal definition of the term Robot.
Copy and paste the definition you find into your Journal.
Provide a bibliographical type citation above the definition indicating where you found it.
Then, compare your definition from yesterday to this more formal definition from the Internet. How are they similar? How are they different?
Do you agree with the definition you found on the Internet? Why or why not?
Due:
Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
DO NOT Google this or consult any other outside resources for help.
In you own words, write your definition for the term Robot. Your definition should describe:
In you own words, write your definition for the term Robot. Your definition should describe:
- what it is
- what it does
- how it works
Due:
Assignment
PRINT DAILY JOURNAL (2ND SEMESTER, 5-WEEK)
Print Range: Tuesday, February 7 thru Tuesday, March 7
You should have four (4) entries.
Points will be deducted for improper printing. (don't waste paper or ink)
Print Range: Tuesday, February 7 thru Tuesday, March 7
You should have four (4) entries.
Points will be deducted for improper printing. (don't waste paper or ink)
Due:
Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
View the Khan Academy video below:
Explain in your own words how FOR LOOPS work.
Why are FOR LOOPS more efficient than WHILE LOOPS?
Due:
Assignment
CODINGBAT PRACTICE (remember to log in)
More with logic, strings & loops (for/while):
More with logic, strings & loops (for/while):
- Python > Warmup-1 > not_string (strings)
- Python > Warmup-2 > string_splosion (string/loop problem - use a while loop)
- Python > String-1 > extra_end (strings slice with concatenation)
- Python > String-2 > count_hi (string/loop problem - more difficult - us a for loop)
When complete, you should compare your answer with other group members. If group members have arrived at different solutions, consider whether one solution is better than another. If so, why?
Re-work you solution if it can be improved.Due:
Assignment
READING - THINK PYTHON: HOW TO THINK LIKE A COMPUTER SCIENTIST
Chapter 4 Case Study: Interface Design
- Read sections 4.4 thru 4.11
- Study Glossary Terms
- Begin work on Exercises Section 4.12 (1-4)
Due:
Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
As an introduction to section 4.3 in Chapter 4 - Case Study: Interface Design, Allen Downey writes:
"The following is a series of exercises using TurtleWorld. They are meant to be fun, but they have a point, too. While you are working on them, think about what the point is."
Explain in your own words what you think the POINT was.
Due:
Assignment
CODINGBAT PRACTICE (remember to log in)
For Loops - Rework the following CodingBat problems as for loops:
For Loops - Rework the following CodingBat problems as for loops:
When complete, you should compare your answer with other group members. If group members have arrived at different solutions, consider whether one solution is better than another. If so, why?
Re-work your solution if it can be improved.Due:
Assignment
READING - THINK PYTHON: HOW TO THINK LIKE A COMPUTER SCIENTIST
Chapter 4 Case Study: Interface Design
Read sections 4.1 thru 4.3
Complete 4.3 Exercises (1-5)
Download and Save file to your Dropbox folder.
Read sections 4.1 thru 4.3
Complete 4.3 Exercises (1-5)
Download and Save file to your Dropbox folder.
Due:
Assignment
CODINGBAT PRACTICE (remember to log in)
More with While Loops:
More with While Loops:
- Python > Warmup-2 > string_bits (use a while loop)
- Python > String-2 > double_char (again, you must use a while loop)
When complete, you should compare your answer with other group members. If group members have arrived at different solutions, consider whether one solution is better than another. If so, why?
Re-work your solution if it can be improved.Due:
Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
View the Khan Academy video below:
Share you impressions/thoughts about the video.
Explain, in your own words, what a while loop in Python does.
Due:
Assignment
READING - THINK PYTHON: HOW TO THINK LIKE A COMPUTER SCIENTIST
Study the Glossary Terms
Due:
Assignment
PYSCRIPTER
Write Two Functions (use your practice .py module)
Write Two Functions (use your practice .py module)
- return_diff
Return the absolute difference between two intergers.
ex. 5-10=5; 10-5=5
ex. 5-10=5; 10-5=5
- is_even (boolean)
Return true or false. Given an integer, determine if it is even or odd.
true=even; false=odd
(note - you must use the print command to test your function)
true=even; false=odd
(note - you must use the print command to test your function)
Due:
Assignment
CODINGBAT PRACTICE (remember to log in)
More with logic and strings:
More with logic and strings:
- Python > Warmup-1 > pos_neg (logic)
- Python > Logic-1 > near_ten (use the modulus)
- Python > String-1 > first_half (strings)
- Python > Warmup-2 > last2 (requires a while loop, or range)
When complete, you should compare your answer with other group members. If group members have arrived at different solutions, consider whether one solution is better than another. If so, why?
Re-work you solution if it can be improved.Due:
Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
Read the following:
LACES Academic Integrity Policy
Share your thoughts, addressing the following specifically:
Is such a policy necessary? Why or why not?
Do you think cheating is a significant problem here at LACES?
Are the consequences outlined in the policy fair? (Too lenient, too strict, just right?)
Do you think computer technology has affected student's ability and willingness to cheat?
If you view cheating as a significant problem, what would you do to address the problem?
Due:
Assignment
CODINGBAT (remember to log in)
More with 'logic':
More with 'logic':
- Python > Logic-1 > in1to10 (Let's test your skill with logic)
- Python > Warmup-1 > near_hundred (This introduces the built-in abs function)
When complete, you should compare your answer with other group members. If group members have arrived at different solutions, consider whether one solution is better than another. If so, why?
Re-work you solution if it can be improved.Due:
Assignment
CODINGBAT (remember to log in)
More with 'strings'!
Begin by reading this short Python tutorial on strings: Python Strings
More with 'strings'!
Begin by reading this short Python tutorial on strings: Python Strings
- Python > Warmup-2 > front_times (let's do this together)
- Python > String-1 > make_abba (then try this on your own)
When complete, you should compare your answer with other group members. If group members have arrived at different solutions, consider whether one solution is better than another. If so, why?
Re-work you solution if it can be improved.Due:
Assignment
CODINGBAT (remember to log in)
Let's play with 'strings'!
Let's play with 'strings'!
- Python > Warmup-2 > string_times (let's do this together)
- Python > String-1 > hello_name (then try this on your own)
When complete, you should compare your answer with other group members. If group members have arrived at different solutions, consider whether one solution is better than another. If so, why?
Re-work you solution if it can be improved.Due:
Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
Read the following LA Times article:
Dropbox inventor determined to build the next Apple or Google
What do you think?
What are your thoughts on this snippet?
"In September, Houston pocketed $250 million from seven of Silicon Valley's top venture capital firms. That eye-popping sum pegged the value of his company at $4 billion and his own net worth — at least on paper — at an estimated $600 million."
What do you think Houston means by this statement at the end?
"You'd just sit down, do something, get it done, have it work and move onto the next thing," Houston said. "The joy is less immediate as things get bigger."
By Jessica Guynn, Los Angeles Times
January 15, 2012
What do you think?
What are your thoughts on this snippet?
"In September, Houston pocketed $250 million from seven of Silicon Valley's top venture capital firms. That eye-popping sum pegged the value of his company at $4 billion and his own net worth — at least on paper — at an estimated $600 million."
What do you think Houston means by this statement at the end?
"You'd just sit down, do something, get it done, have it work and move onto the next thing," Houston said. "The joy is less immediate as things get bigger."
Due:
Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
View the Khan Academy video below:
Diagramming What Happens with a Function Call
In your own words, explain what a Function is. What is a Function Call?Explain what happens when you call a Function.
Due:
Assignment
READING - THINK PYTHON: HOW TO THINK LIKE A COMPUTER SCIENTIST
Study the Glossary Terms
Complete Exercise 1-5 (Due Friday 12/16)
Download and Save template below to your folder. Print when complete.
Download and Save template below to your folder. Print when complete.
Due:
Assignment
CODINGBAT (remember to log in)
- Python > Warmup-1 > makes10 (let's do this together)
- Python > Logic-1 > caught_speeding (then try this on your own)
When complete, you should compare your answer with other group members. If group members have arrived at different solutions, consider whether one solution is better than another. If so, why?
Re-work you solution if it can be improved.Due:
Assignment
CODINGBAT (remember to log in)
- Python > Warmup-1 > parrot_trouble (let's do this together)
- Python > Logic-1 > squirrel_play (then try this on your own)
When complete, you should compare your answer with other group members. If group members have arrived at different solutions, consider whether one solution is better than another. If so, why?
Re-work you solution if it can be improved.Due:
Assignment
CODINGBAT (remember to log in)
- Python > Warmup-1 > diff21 (let's do this together)
- Python > Logic-1 > date_fashion (then try this on your own)
When complete, you should compare your answer with other group members. If group members have arrived at different solutions, consider whether one solution is better than another. If so, why?
Re-work you solution if it can be improved.
Due:
Assignment
READING - THINK PYTHON: HOW TO THINK LIKE A COMPUTER SCIENTIST
Study the Glossary Terms
Complete Exercise 1-4 (Due Friday 12/2)
Download and Save template below to your folder. Print when complete.
Due:
Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
Share your thoughts on Python Boolean Logic & the CodingBat exercises.
(10 minutes)
(10 minutes)
Due:
Assignment
CODINGBAT (remember to log in)
- Python > Warmup-1 > sum_double (let's do this together)
- Python > Logic-1 > cigar_party (then try this on your own)
Due:
Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
View the Khan Academy video again - Log In using your account info.
Having now read the first two chapters of Allen B. Downey's
Think Python: How to Think Like a Computer Scientist
Does the video make more sense now? Do you understand it better? Does reading the book help with comprehension?
Think Python: How to Think Like a Computer Scientist
Does the video make more sense now? Do you understand it better? Does reading the book help with comprehension?
Due:
Assignment
CODINGBAT
Python - Warmup 1
Python - Warmup 1
- sleep_in (This will be a guided class activity - I'll lead you through it)
- monkey_trouble (Let's see if you can do this one on your own - You can discuss with group)
Due:
Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
Think Python: How to Think Like a Computer Scientist
Comment on the 'problem' he encountered teaching Computer Science and his 'solution'.
Comment on the 'problem' he encountered teaching Computer Science and his 'solution'.
Due:
Assignment
READING - THINK PYTHON: HOW TO THINK LIKE A COMPUTER SCIENTIST
Chapter 1 The way of the program
- Study the Glossary Terms
- Complete Exercise 1-4 (Due 11/30)
Due:
Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
TED Talk: Theo Jansen creates new creatures
ECS Folder/Ted Talks Vids/TheoJansen_2007
We will experiment again with file sizes, so wait for my directions.
After viewing the video, ponder and respond to these questions:
- He refers to a 'binary step counter'. What does this mean?
- Are there any practical implications to this, or is it just fun?
Due:
Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
TED Talk: Hans Rosling shows the best stats you've ever seen
ECS Folder/Ted Talks Vids/HansRosling_2006
Let's experiment, so wait for my directions.
After viewing the video, ponder and respond to these questions:
ECS Folder/Ted Talks Vids/HansRosling_2006
Let's experiment, so wait for my directions.
After viewing the video, ponder and respond to these questions:
- What is data?
- Does it matter?
- So, what?
Due:
Assignment
GROUP ACTIVITY - PROBLEM SOLVING
Group leaders should download and save the file below. Complete the worksheet as a group.
Print when complete.
Group leaders should download and save the file below. Complete the worksheet as a group.
Print when complete.
Due:
Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
Fence Post Problem:
Sove this problem out loud (in writing of course). Talk through the steps you take as you solve the problem. Think it through, and as you do so, tell me what your thinking.
Now, reflect on your process.
Fence Post Problem:
You need to build one side of a fence that is 12 yards long. This fence will be built with fence posts and rails that connect one fence post to another. If each fence post is 1 yard away from the next fence post, how many fence posts will be needed for this side of the fence? How many fence posts will be needed for a side of a fence that is N (where N > 0) yards long?
Sove this problem out loud (in writing of course). Talk through the steps you take as you solve the problem. Think it through, and as you do so, tell me what your thinking.
Now, reflect on your process.
Due:
Assignment
CANDY BAR GROUP ACTIVITY
Your group's task is to determine how many "breaks" it will take to break a candy bar into equal pieces to share among your group members. One break of one piece of the candy bar will result in that one piece being divided into two pieces.
First, discuss the problem as a group and come up with a guess you can agree on. Write your group's guess on the Activity Sheet.
Next, as a group, discuss and write down your plan for solving the problem.
Now, implement your plan. Break the candy into equal pieces, one for each group member. Count the breaks needed as you do so. Enjoy the candy bar!
Did your group's plan work? Discuss:
- Was your guess correct?
- What process did you use to come up with your guess?
- Did working with your group and creating a plan change your guess?
- How many breaks did it take?
- Did your plan work?
Discuss: What have we learned?
Due:
Assignment
CLASS ACTIVITY - PROBLEM SOLVING
The Handshake Problem
This will be a class activity which we will do together.
The Handshake Problem
This will be a class activity which we will do together.
Due:
Assignment
Due:
Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
View and comment on the following Daily Beast article by Cynthia Karena dated November 3, 2011..
University Adopts Predictive Technology
What are the implications for your future?
Speak specifically to this quote from the article:
"We're on the verge of a significant transition to better human-machine interaction so (machines) understand what we mean. And voice is a big part of that. There are also gestures, eye gaze, facial expressions and even thoughts. But voice is one of the most important, as it's generally the most efficient and is the least effort for communication."
What are the implications for your future?
Speak specifically to this quote from the article:
"We're on the verge of a significant transition to better human-machine interaction so (machines) understand what we mean. And voice is a big part of that. There are also gestures, eye gaze, facial expressions and even thoughts. But voice is one of the most important, as it's generally the most efficient and is the least effort for communication."
Due:
Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
Consider our activities and discussions of the last week. Think about the Following Directions Quiz, the Drawing Activity and the Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich Experiment.
QUESTION:
What is intelligence? Are computers intelligent? Why or why not?
Due:
Assignment
CLASS ACTIVITY: THE TURING TEST
Who is the computer?
Using the questions below, the class as a whole is to see if they can determine who is the computer and who is the human based on responses to the questions posed.
Think about the questions you select to ask. How will that particular question help you determine who is the computer?
Who is the computer?
Using the questions below, the class as a whole is to see if they can determine who is the computer and who is the human based on responses to the questions posed.
Think about the questions you select to ask. How will that particular question help you determine who is the computer?
- What is the name of Bart Simpson’s baby sister?
- What do you think of Roald Dahl?
- Are you a computer?
- What is the next number in the sequence 3, 6, 9, 12, 15?
- What do you think of nuclear weapons?
- What is 2 X 78?
- What is the square root of two?
- Add 34957 to 70764.
- Do you like school?
- Do you like dancing?
- What day is it today?
- What time is it?
- How many days are there in February in a leap year?
- How many days are there in a week?
- For which country is the flag a red circle on a white background?
- Do you like to read books?
- What food do you like to eat?
Due:
Assignment
Due:
Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
Reflect on last Thursday's group discussion.
What do computers do exactly?
Share you personal thoughts on the question. Did you think about the question at all over the weekend? If so, what new thoughts or ideas arose?
What do computers do exactly?
Share you personal thoughts on the question. Did you think about the question at all over the weekend? If so, what new thoughts or ideas arose?
Due:
Assignment
QUIZ: FOLLOWING DIRECTIONS
- Do NOT open this quiz before being directed to do so! Doing so WILL result in 0 pts.
- When directed to, you may download and begin the quiz by clicking the link below.
- You will have 5 minutes to complete the quiz.
Due:
Assignment
DRAWING PICTURES ACTIVITY
Complete this activity using MS Paint. You will have 10 minutes to complete your drawing.
Save file to your folder as: My House
Complete this activity using MS Paint. You will have 10 minutes to complete your drawing.
Save file to your folder as: My House
- Draw a picture of a house in the middle of the page.
- Draw a picture of a stick figure father, mother and daughter.
- Draw a picture of a mustang next to the house
- Draw a picture of the sun in the sky.
Due:
Assignment
GROUP ACTIVITY - WRITING DIRECTIONS
Have your group recorder download and save the Word file below to their folder.
Click for Writing Directions Template
Your Task:
Have your group recorder download and save the Word file below to their folder.
Click for Writing Directions Template
Your Task:
- Write down step-by-step instructions for a computer to make a peanut butter & jelly sandwich.
- Make your directions as specific and detailed as possible.
- You will have 10 minutes to complete the activity.
- Remember to have your recorder save your work.
- Print your directions when complete.
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Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
Read and comment on the following LA Times commentary by Peter Garrison dated August 14, 2011
Speak specifically to the author's point that, "This is the future; the trend will not be reversed."
How might this trend apply to Man's other endeavors besides air-flight? Where else might 'the human and the digital worlds [do] battle'? When they 'battle', who loses? And, who is to blame?
And what is your response to the article's conclusion:
"Why? Because he was a human being. That is what the programmers forgot."
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Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
Read and comment on the following LA Times op-ed piece by Mark Bowden dated October 23, 2011
Malware Myopia
Speak specifically to the author's point about the inherent vulnerability (openness) of the Internet. Is it a good thing or a bad thing? How do we, as a society, balance the desire for freedom vs. the need for security?
"They were far more worried about protecting the Web from state control than from the evil that lurks in the hearts of men. Such is the nature of most hopeful ventures. So along with the inestimable benefits of the Internet, we must live with the dangers of loosely guarded interconnectivity."
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Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
View and comment on the following TED video featuring Kevin Kelly.
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Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
This will be experimental. We will have to see if everything works.
View and comment on the following TED video featuring Salman Khan.
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Assignment
READING - GROUP DISCUSSION - NOTES
The following short story was written by Isaac Asimov in 1956. Read and ponder.
The Last Question by Isaac Asimov © 1956
After everyone in your group has finished, have a group discussion about the story.
Questions to Consider:
(Group Leaders - These questions should guide your group's discussion and help organize your notes.)
Appoint a recorder to keep notes of your discussion. These will be collected.
After everyone in your group has finished, have a group discussion about the story.
Questions to Consider:
(Group Leaders - These questions should guide your group's discussion and help organize your notes.)
Appoint a recorder to keep notes of your discussion. These will be collected.
- What is Asimov's general view of computer technology?
- Considering this story was written in 1956, how accurate was Asimov in predicting the future of computer technology?
- In what ways was he wrong about the future?
- Can you make any connections between his Mutivac computer and our world today? Are there parallels?
- What is implied by the story's ending? What do you think Asimov is trying to say?
- Did you enjoy the story? Why or Why not?
- What other questions might one ask about this story?
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Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
Read and comment on the following article from the NY Times.
Anti-Social NetworkingHilary Stout, April 30, 2010Do you think, as expressed by some in the article, that we as a society should be concerned about the effect on our children's social development created by modern computer technologies? (Texting, Facebook, etc.)
How does social networking, facilitated by modern computer technology, impact and/or influence your social relationships for good and/or ill?
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Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
- What, if any, social networking sites are you involved with? Why?
- What benefits do you derive from this involvement?
- Is there a downside?
- If you are not currently associated with any of these sites, why not?
- What sites would you like to be involved with, if any?
- If you have no interest in these site, explain why not?
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Assignment
ACCOUNT SETUP
Make sure you have set up all accounts.
We will be adding some more.
Accounts:
This Link will help: Class Setup
Make sure you have set up all accounts.
We will be adding some more.
Accounts:
This Link will help: Class Setup
Due:
Assignment
EMAIL SIGNATURE CHECK
Send email to Mr. Merriman demonstrating that you have properly set up Contacts and Signature in your email
Add Mr. Merriman to contacts: [email protected]
Email Subject: Signature Check for (Insert Full Name), Period 3
Your signature should look exactly like this: (except use Your Name and Your period/station numbers)
Send email to Mr. Merriman demonstrating that you have properly set up Contacts and Signature in your email
Add Mr. Merriman to contacts: [email protected]
Email Subject: Signature Check for (Insert Full Name), Period 3
Your signature should look exactly like this: (except use Your Name and Your period/station numbers)
First Last, Student
Period 3, Station 1
Exploring Computer Science, Rm. 208
Instructor: Mr. Merriman
LACES Magnet School
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Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
World on Wi-FireNiall Ferguson |
As you read, take the time to Google terms that you are unfamiliar with to gain a greater understanding of the writer's intent and implications.For example: Apocalypse
An Apocalypse (Greek: ἀποκάλυψις apokálypsis; "lifting of the veil" or "revelation") is a disclosure of something hidden from the majority of mankind in an era dominated by falsehood and misconception, i.e. the veil to be lifted. The Apocalypse of John (Greek Ἀποκάλυψις Ἰωάννου) is the Book of Revelation, the last book of the New Testament. By extension, apocalypse can refer to any End Time scenario, or to the end of the world in general.
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Assignment
BUILD YOUR DREAM SYSTEM
- Describe your dream system
- Explain why it would be your dream system
- What components/hardware & software do you need? List them
- Find two advertisements for computer systems which would meet or exceed your dreams, you may add (upgrade) components if you need to (online or hardcopy)
- You will attach these to your Dream System description
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Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
View the Khan Academy video below. It will play on the large screen at the beginning of class.
Computer Science: Introduction to Programs Data Types and Variables
What do you think? Questions/Comments/Impressions
View the Khan Academy video below. It will play on the large screen at the beginning of class.
Computer Science: Introduction to Programs Data Types and Variables
What do you think? Questions/Comments/Impressions
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Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
What do you think is the most disturbing or scariest recent development in the field of computer technology and why? (Does anything bother you?)
What do you think is the most disturbing or scariest recent development in the field of computer technology and why? (Does anything bother you?)
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Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
What do you think is the most interesting, exciting or neatest thing going on today in the field of computer technology and why?
What do you think is the most interesting, exciting or neatest thing going on today in the field of computer technology and why?
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Assignment
CLASS DISCUSSION - THE PROBLEM SOLVING PROCESS
The four steps of the problem solving process are:
The four steps of the problem solving process are:
- Understand the problem – read or listen to the problem statement.
- Make a plan to solve the problem – use pictures, charts, graphs, systematic lists, objects, or act out the solution to help you devise a plan to solve the problem
In Computer Science we call this plan an algorithm.
- Carry out the plan – once the plan is conceived and understood, follow the plan. If you have planned well, this is the easy part.
- Review and reflect on how the problem was solved – Once the problem is solved, reflect on the plan that was used.
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Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
Reflect on Friday's experience of disassembling and reassembling a computer. What, if anything, did you learn about computer hardware? Where there any surprises? What did you think of the experience?
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Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
How big a role do computers play in your life? Can you explain why?
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Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
Based on our activities and discussion so far, how would you modify or change your response to the question - What is a computer?
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Assignment
LIST: COMPUTER EXAMPLES @ HOME
Make a list of all the items you can identify in your home that would qualify as being a computer or having computer components within.
Make a list of all the items you can identify in your home that would qualify as being a computer or having computer components within.
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Assignment
GROUP ACTIVITY: COMPUTER EXAMPLES CATEGORIZED
Steps:
Steps:
- Aggregate your individual computer lists into one group list
- Eliminate duplicates
- Then develop a system to categorize the items in your group list
- You will need to establish category names
- Then place each item from the list into its appropriate category
- We will use Excel to categorize the lists
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Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
Review your Journal entry from yesterday. Then consider your responses to the Computer List Activity. Based on this activity, would you make any changes or additions to yesterday's Journal entry?
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Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
What do you think of when you hear the words 'computer' and 'computing'?
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Assignment
LIST: COMPUTER EXAMPLES
Brainstorm a list of items that you think are examples of a 'computer'.
Brainstorm a list of items that you think are examples of a 'computer'.
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Assignment
DAILY JOURNAL
What does Computer Science mean to you?