Magnet Program Computer Science
Course Offerings
Computer
Science
The computer technology seminar supports the
mathematics and science disciplines. The focus is
placed on the use of the computer as a tool for
problem solving in other subjects. Through the use of
real world tools and global educational resources, the
seminars prepare students for scientific challenges
and productive careers. Students collect, manipulate,
graph, and analyze data using the computer. They
develop algorithms, write programs in various
structured programming languages, and use commercial
software to solve problems. The Takoma Park Middle
School Magnet Program provides the unique opportunity
of three full years of daily computer science
instruction.
Sixth Grade
The computer technology seminar class consists of
four basic components. Together they provide a
framework for an interdisciplinary curriculum while
students become familiar with and proficient in using
the computer as a tool.
Evolution of Computers
This first component familiarizes students with the
history and development of computers as well as their
internal circuitry.
Applications
The students use a Works package as the core
program for word processing, database, and
spreadsheet. Activities will be coordinated with the
magnet mathematics and science curriculums. A graphics
program allows students to enhance projects and
documents while regular keyboarding activities help to
increase speed and proficiency.
Programming
Programming is introduced as a problem-solving tool
using LOGO. Students learn algorithmic development and
block programming structure. Geometry concepts are
reinforced in this unit. The LOGO language is simple
enough for beginners yet powerful enough to challenge
more experienced programmers and provides a foundation
for other programming languages studied in future
seminar courses.
Telecommunications
This final component consists of research and
resource gathering using the Internet. This allows the
students to engage in dialogue and collaboration with
peers while providing access to libraries and experts
on a variety of topics. All students are required to
sign a computer use agreement and follow the rules of
“netiquette”. All Internet activities are highly
supervised.
Seventh Grade
The seventh grade seminar class includes a brief
review of the applications from sixth grade followed
by the study of multimedia applications. Students use
computer programming in the BASIC language as a
vehicle for learning problem solving skills and
algorithmic development.
Topic Review and Lab Orientation
Word processing, database, spreadsheet assignments,
classroom procedures, local network use, and general
assignment expectations are covered during this time.
Web Publishing
Web publishing supports other subjects such as the
study of hurricanes in science. Students learn how to
create simple HTML documents incorporating text,
links, tables, and images. They are also exposed to
the history, mechanics, and proper uses of the
Internet.
Programming
Programming is used primarily as a tool to teach
logical thinking and problem solving skills. It offers
many opportunities for infusion of mathematical topics
such as linear functions, order of operations, solving
equations, and formulae. Students will use decision
structures to study classification in science. Good
structured programming practice and algorithmic
development are stressed throughout.
Eighth Grade
Beginning with a brief review of the Grade 7
topics, students learn programming topics in BASIC.
The programming instruction is aimed at mathematical
and scientific problem solving. Internet research is
required for certain assignments and various
applications are used to produce multimedia objects in
conjunction with the projects. Students complete
readings concerning current technology trends. A final
programming project is required of all students,
demonstrating their ability to use the knowledge
gained during their stay at Takoma Park Middle School.
Topic Review and Lab Orientation
Students are given programming assignments based on
the previous year's learning as well as discussion of
lab procedures, network use, and expectations.
BASIC Programming
The class improves problem-solving skills while
focusing on structured programming, stressing
sub-procedures and functions. Topics such as decision
structures, looping, and arrays are also
discussed. A special emphasis is given to
algorithm development and modular program design.
Web Publishing
Students learn advanced HTML topics and the use of
web authoring tools. An emphasis is placed on the
design aspect of creating web pages. Advanced students
can explore other web technologies including advanced
graphics applications and web programming.
Current Readings
Students are required to research and report on
articles from current periodicals showing how current
trends in technology relate to all aspects of our
lives.
