Curriculum - Computer Science Principles

Here is a structured curriculum for a Computer Science Principles course designed for grades 10-12 in New York State, running for 160 school days. This version integrates:

• Student-centered learning

• Concepts and skill development

• Guided practice and closure

• Differentiated instruction

• UDL (Universal Design for Learning)

• 5E Model (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, Evaluate)

• UbD (Understanding by Design)

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Computer Science Principles Curriculum (160 Days)

Course Goals

• Develop computational thinking and problem-solving skills.

• Understand foundational computer science concepts.

• Apply digital fluency in real-world contexts.

• Foster inclusive, collaborative, and creative learning environments.

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Scope and Sequence Overview

Unit	Title	Duration	Focus
1	Introduction to CS & Digital Citizenship	20 days	Ethics, safety, collaboration
2	Algorithms & Programming Basics	20 days	Problem solving, coding
3	Data & Information	20 days	Data literacy, visualization
4	Computing Systems & Networks	20 days	Hardware, software, protocols
5	Cybersecurity & Ethics	20 days	Security, encryption, ethics
6	Impact of Computing & Emerging Tech	20 days	AI, IoT, societal impact
7	Capstone Project & Portfolio	40 days	Integration, innovation, presentation

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Unit Details

Unit 1: Introduction to CS & Digital Citizenship

• Enduring Understandings: Technology shapes society; responsible use is essential.

• Essential Questions: What is CS? How do we use technology ethically?

• Skills: Internet safety, digital footprint, collaboration tools.

• Activities:

  • Engage: Digital scavenger hunt

  • Explore: Case studies on tech misuse

  • Explain: Create infographics

  • Elaborate: Role-play scenarios

  • Evaluate: Reflective journaling

• Closure: Group discussion on ethical dilemmas

• Differentiation: Choice boards, peer modeling

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Unit 2: Algorithms & Programming Basics

• Enduring Understandings: Algorithms solve problems; programming is creative.

• Essential Questions: How do we design efficient solutions?

• Skills: Pseudocode, flowcharts, basic programming (Python/Scratch)

• Activities:

  • Engage: Puzzle-solving challenge

  • Explore: Build algorithms for daily tasks

  • Explain: Code simple programs

  • Elaborate: Modify existing code

  • Evaluate: Debugging challenge

• Closure: Code showcase and peer review

• Differentiation: Scaffolded templates, unplugged activities

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Unit 3: Data & Information

• Enduring Understandings: Data drives decisions; representation matters.

• Essential Questions: How is data collected, stored, and interpreted?

• Skills: Data types, visualization, privacy

• Activities:

  • Engage: Class survey

  • Explore: Analyze trends

  • Explain: Create visualizations

  • Elaborate: Compare datasets

  • Evaluate: Present findings

• Closure: Data storytelling presentations

• Differentiation: Interactive graphs, tactile tools

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Unit 4: Computing Systems & Networks

• Enduring Understandings: Systems interact to process and transmit data.

• Essential Questions: How do computers and networks work together?

• Skills: Hardware/software, IP addresses, protocols

• Activities:

  • Engage: Network simulation game

  • Explore: Build a simple network

  • Explain: Diagram system components

  • Elaborate: Troubleshoot a network

  • Evaluate: Peer teaching

• Closure: Network design challenge

• Differentiation: Diagrams, simulations, hands-on labs

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Unit 5: Cybersecurity & Ethics

• Enduring Understandings: Security is essential in digital environments.

• Essential Questions: How do we protect systems and data?

• Skills: Encryption, authentication, ethical hacking

• Activities:

  • Engage: Breach case study

  • Explore: Simulate password cracking

  • Explain: Create security plans

  • Elaborate: Debate ethical dilemmas

  • Evaluate: Security audit project

• Closure: Cybersecurity fair

• Differentiation: Role-play, visual models, topic choice

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Unit 6: Impact of Computing & Emerging Technologies

• Enduring Understandings: Computing transforms industries and lives.

• Essential Questions: How does computing shape the future?

• Skills: AI, machine learning, IoT

• Activities:

  • Engage: Tech innovation videos

  • Explore: Research emerging tech

  • Explain: Present findings

  • Elaborate: Design future tech

  • Evaluate: Peer critique

• Closure: Innovation showcase

• Differentiation: Multimedia, interviews, virtual field trips

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Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio

• Enduring Understandings: Integration of knowledge leads to innovation.

• Essential Questions: How can I use CS to solve a real-world problem?

• Skills: Project planning, collaboration, presentation

• Activities:

  • Engage: Brainstorm ideas

  • Explore: Research and prototype

  • Explain: Document process

  • Elaborate: Refine and iterate

  • Evaluate: Present to community panel

• Closure: Portfolio reflection and celebration

• Differentiation: Flexible formats, self-assessment tools

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Assessment Types

• Formative: Exit tickets, peer feedback, journals

• Summative: Projects, presentations, code reviews

• Performance Tasks: Real-world simulations, design challenges

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Differentiation & UDL Strategies

• Engagement: Gamified learning, real-world connections

• Representation: Visuals, audio, tactile tools

• Expression: Coding, storytelling, design

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  Lessons Breakdown:

Day	Unit	Lesson Number	Lesson Title
1	Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Science & Digital Citizenship	1	What is Computer Science?
2	Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Science & Digital Citizenship	2	History of Computing
3	Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Science & Digital Citizenship	3	Digital Citizenship Overview
4	Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Science & Digital Citizenship	4	Online Safety and Security
5	Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Science & Digital Citizenship	5	Understanding Digital Footprints
6	Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Science & Digital Citizenship	6	Cyberbullying and Prevention
7	Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Science & Digital Citizenship	7	Responsible Social Media Use
8	Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Science & Digital Citizenship	8	Digital Communication Tools
9	Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Science & Digital Citizenship	9	Collaborative Technologies
10	Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Science & Digital Citizenship	10	Technology and Society
11	Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Science & Digital Citizenship	11	Ethical Use of Technology
12	Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Science & Digital Citizenship	12	Copyright and Fair Use
13	Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Science & Digital Citizenship	13	Creative Commons Licensing
14	Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Science & Digital Citizenship	14	Digital Access and Equity
15	Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Science & Digital Citizenship	15	Digital Etiquette
16	Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Science & Digital Citizenship	16	Digital Law and Policies
17	Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Science & Digital Citizenship	17	Careers in Computer Science
18	Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Science & Digital Citizenship	18	Exploring CS Fields
19	Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Science & Digital Citizenship	19	Reflection and Review
20	Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Science & Digital Citizenship	20	Unit Assessment
21	Unit 2: Algorithms & Programming Basics	1	Introduction to Algorithms
22	Unit 2: Algorithms & Programming Basics	2	Sequencing and Flowcharts
23	Unit 2: Algorithms & Programming Basics	3	Pseudocode Basics
24	Unit 2: Algorithms & Programming Basics	4	Programming Languages Overview
25	Unit 2: Algorithms & Programming Basics	5	Variables and Data Types
26	Unit 2: Algorithms & Programming Basics	6	Operators and Expressions
27	Unit 2: Algorithms & Programming Basics	7	Conditional Statements
28	Unit 2: Algorithms & Programming Basics	8	Loops and Iteration
29	Unit 2: Algorithms & Programming Basics	9	Functions and Procedures
30	Unit 2: Algorithms & Programming Basics	10	Debugging Techniques
31	Unit 2: Algorithms & Programming Basics	11	Writing Simple Programs
32	Unit 2: Algorithms & Programming Basics	12	Code Review and Feedback
33	Unit 2: Algorithms & Programming Basics	13	Pair Programming
34	Unit 2: Algorithms & Programming Basics	14	Unplugged Programming Activities
35	Unit 2: Algorithms & Programming Basics	15	Project: Build a Calculator
36	Unit 2: Algorithms & Programming Basics	16	Project Work Day
37	Unit 2: Algorithms & Programming Basics	17	Project Presentations
38	Unit 2: Algorithms & Programming Basics	18	Reflection and Review
39	Unit 2: Algorithms & Programming Basics	19	Unit Assessment
40	Unit 2: Algorithms & Programming Basics	20	Extension Activities
41	Unit 3: Data & Information	1	What is Data?
42	Unit 3: Data & Information	2	Types of Data
43	Unit 3: Data & Information	3	Data Collection Methods
44	Unit 3: Data & Information	4	Surveys and Sampling
45	Unit 3: Data & Information	5	Data Storage and Formats
46	Unit 3: Data & Information	6	Introduction to Databases
47	Unit 3: Data & Information	7	Data Visualization Tools
48	Unit 3: Data & Information	8	Creating Charts and Graphs
49	Unit 3: Data & Information	9	Interpreting Data
50	Unit 3: Data & Information	10	Data Bias and Ethics
51	Unit 3: Data & Information	11	Big Data Concepts
52	Unit 3: Data & Information	12	Data in Everyday Life
53	Unit 3: Data & Information	13	Data Privacy
54	Unit 3: Data & Information	14	Data Compression
55	Unit 3: Data & Information	15	Project: Data Analysis
56	Unit 3: Data & Information	16	Project Work Day
57	Unit 3: Data & Information	17	Project Presentations
58	Unit 3: Data & Information	18	Reflection and Review
59	Unit 3: Data & Information	19	Unit Assessment
60	Unit 3: Data & Information	20	Extension Activities
61	Unit 4: Computing Systems & Networks	1	Introduction to Computing Systems
62	Unit 4: Computing Systems & Networks	2	Hardware Components
63	Unit 4: Computing Systems & Networks	3	Software Components
64	Unit 4: Computing Systems & Networks	4	Operating Systems
65	Unit 4: Computing Systems & Networks	5	Input and Output Devices
66	Unit 4: Computing Systems & Networks	6	Storage Devices
67	Unit 4: Computing Systems & Networks	7	Networking Basics
68	Unit 4: Computing Systems & Networks	8	Types of Networks
69	Unit 4: Computing Systems & Networks	9	Internet and Web
70	Unit 4: Computing Systems & Networks	10	IP Addresses and DNS
71	Unit 4: Computing Systems & Networks	11	Protocols and Packets
72	Unit 4: Computing Systems & Networks	12	Network Security
73	Unit 4: Computing Systems & Networks	13	Troubleshooting Networks
74	Unit 4: Computing Systems & Networks	14	Building a Simple Network
75	Unit 4: Computing Systems & Networks	15	Project: Network Design
76	Unit 4: Computing Systems & Networks	16	Project Work Day
77	Unit 4: Computing Systems & Networks	17	Project Presentations
78	Unit 4: Computing Systems & Networks	18	Reflection and Review
79	Unit 4: Computing Systems & Networks	19	Unit Assessment
80	Unit 4: Computing Systems & Networks	20	Extension Activities
81	Unit 5: Cybersecurity & Ethics	1	Introduction to Cybersecurity
82	Unit 5: Cybersecurity & Ethics	2	Types of Cyber Threats
83	Unit 5: Cybersecurity & Ethics	3	Malware and Prevention
84	Unit 5: Cybersecurity & Ethics	4	Phishing and Social Engineering
85	Unit 5: Cybersecurity & Ethics	5	Encryption Basics
86	Unit 5: Cybersecurity & Ethics	6	Authentication Methods
87	Unit 5: Cybersecurity & Ethics	7	Firewalls and Antivirus
88	Unit 5: Cybersecurity & Ethics	8	Ethical Hacking
89	Unit 5: Cybersecurity & Ethics	9	Cybersecurity Careers
90	Unit 5: Cybersecurity & Ethics	10	Legal and Ethical Issues
91	Unit 5: Cybersecurity & Ethics	11	Privacy Laws
92	Unit 5: Cybersecurity & Ethics	12	Digital Forensics
93	Unit 5: Cybersecurity & Ethics	13	Security Policies
94	Unit 5: Cybersecurity & Ethics	14	Incident Response
95	Unit 5: Cybersecurity & Ethics	15	Project: Security Audit
96	Unit 5: Cybersecurity & Ethics	16	Project Work Day
97	Unit 5: Cybersecurity & Ethics	17	Project Presentations
98	Unit 5: Cybersecurity & Ethics	18	Reflection and Review
99	Unit 5: Cybersecurity & Ethics	19	Unit Assessment
100	Unit 5: Cybersecurity & Ethics	20	Extension Activities
101	Unit 6: Impact of Computing & Emerging Technologies	1	Computing in Society
102	Unit 6: Impact of Computing & Emerging Technologies	2	Technology and Culture
103	Unit 6: Impact of Computing & Emerging Technologies	3	Artificial Intelligence
104	Unit 6: Impact of Computing & Emerging Technologies	4	Machine Learning
105	Unit 6: Impact of Computing & Emerging Technologies	5	Internet of Things
106	Unit 6: Impact of Computing & Emerging Technologies	6	Augmented and Virtual Reality
107	Unit 6: Impact of Computing & Emerging Technologies	7	Blockchain Technology
108	Unit 6: Impact of Computing & Emerging Technologies	8	Wearable Tech
109	Unit 6: Impact of Computing & Emerging Technologies	9	Smart Cities
110	Unit 6: Impact of Computing & Emerging Technologies	10	Ethics of Emerging Tech
111	Unit 6: Impact of Computing & Emerging Technologies	11	Environmental Impact
112	Unit 6: Impact of Computing & Emerging Technologies	12	Tech in Medicine
113	Unit 6: Impact of Computing & Emerging Technologies	13	Tech in Education
114	Unit 6: Impact of Computing & Emerging Technologies	14	Tech in Entertainment
115	Unit 6: Impact of Computing & Emerging Technologies	15	Project: Future Tech Proposal
116	Unit 6: Impact of Computing & Emerging Technologies	16	Project Work Day
117	Unit 6: Impact of Computing & Emerging Technologies	17	Project Presentations
118	Unit 6: Impact of Computing & Emerging Technologies	18	Reflection and Review
119	Unit 6: Impact of Computing & Emerging Technologies	19	Unit Assessment
120	Unit 6: Impact of Computing & Emerging Technologies	20	Extension Activities
121	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	1	Capstone Planning Day 1
122	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	2	Capstone Planning Day 2
123	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	3	Capstone Planning Day 3
124	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	4	Capstone Planning Day 4
125	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	5	Capstone Planning Day 5
126	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	6	Capstone Planning Day 6
127	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	7	Capstone Planning Day 7
128	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	8	Capstone Planning Day 8
129	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	9	Capstone Planning Day 9
130	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	10	Capstone Planning Day 10
131	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	11	Capstone Development Day 1
132	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	12	Capstone Development Day 2
133	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	13	Capstone Development Day 3
134	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	14	Capstone Development Day 4
135	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	15	Capstone Development Day 5
136	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	16	Capstone Development Day 6
137	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	17	Capstone Development Day 7
138	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	18	Capstone Development Day 8
139	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	19	Capstone Development Day 9
140	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	20	Capstone Development Day 10
141	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	21	Capstone Development Day 11
142	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	22	Capstone Development Day 12
143	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	23	Capstone Development Day 13
144	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	24	Capstone Development Day 14
145	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	25	Capstone Development Day 15
146	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	26	Capstone Development Day 16
147	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	27	Capstone Development Day 17
148	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	28	Capstone Development Day 18
149	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	29	Capstone Development Day 19
150	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	30	Capstone Development Day 20
151	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	31	Capstone Presentation Prep Day 1
152	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	32	Capstone Presentation Prep Day 2
153	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	33	Capstone Presentation Prep Day 3
154	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	34	Capstone Presentation Prep Day 4
155	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	35	Capstone Presentations Day 1
156	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	36	Capstone Presentations Day 2
157	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	37	Portfolio Compilation
158	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	38	Portfolio Review
159	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	39	Course Reflection
160	Unit 7: Capstone Project & Portfolio	40	Final Assessment