A Model Curriculum for K–12 Computer Science

(http://csta.acm.org/Curriculum/sub/k12final1022.pdf)

“As a basis for describing a model curriculum for K–12 computer science, we use the following definition of computer science as an academic and professional field.

Computer science (CS) is the study of computers and algorithmic processes1, including their principles, their hardware and software designs, their applications, and their impact on society.

In our view, this definition requires that K–12 computer science curricula have the following kinds of elements: programming, hardware design, networks, graphics, databases and information retrieval, computer security, software design, programming languages, logic, programming paradigms, translation between levels of abstraction, artificial intelligence, the limits of computation (what computers can’t do), applications in information technology and information systems, and social issues (Internet security, privacy, intellectual property, etc.).”

“The goals of a K–12 computer science curriculum are to:

1) introduce the fundamental concepts of computer science to all students, beginning at the elementary school level.

2) present computer science at the secondary school level in a way that would be both accessible and worthy of a curriculum credit (e.g., math or science).

3) offer additional secondary-level computer science courses that will allow interested students to study it in depth and prepare them for entry into the work force or college.

4) increase the knowledge of computer science for all students, especially those who are members of underrepresented groups.”

Level II—Computer Science in the Modern World

This is a one-year course (or the equivalent) that would be accessible to all students, whether they are college-bound or workplace-bound. The goal of this course is to provide all students with an introduction to the principles of computer science and its place in the modern world. This course should also help students to use computers effectively in their lives, thus providing a foundation for successfully integrating their own interests and careers with the resources of a technological society.

In this course, high school students can acquire a fundamental understanding of the operation of computers and computer networks and create useful programs implementing simple algorithms. By developing Web pages that include images, sound, and text, they can acquire a working understanding of the Internet, common formats for data transmission, and some insights into the design of the human-computer interface. Exposure to career possibilities and discussion of ethical issues relating to computers should also be important threads in this course.

Prior to this course, students should have gained experience using computers, as would normally occur at Level I. They should have used, modified, and created files for a variety of purposes, accessed the Internet and databases for both research and communication, and used other tools such as spreadsheets and graphics. Finally, they should have been introduced to the basic idea of algorithmic thinking and its uses in their daily lives.

Topics and Goals

A major outcome of this course (or its equivalent) is to provide students with general knowledge about computer hardware, software, languages, networks, and their impact in the modern world.4 That is, since most students at Level II will eventually encounter computers and networks as users, the overarching aim here is to prepare students to master computer science concepts from the user’s point of view rather than from the designer’s. For instance, the idea that a robot needs a method of acquiring sensory data from its environment draws attention to the general notion of an “input device” beyond the standard keyboard and mouse. Teaching students about various  input devices currently in use should help demystify the general idea of input, and prepare students to be comfortable using devices with which they are not yet familiar.

Students should gain a conceptual understanding of the following topics in computer science:

1. Principles of computer organization and the major components (input, output, memory, storage, processing, software, operating system, etc.)

2. The basic steps in algorithmic problem-solving (problem statement and exploration, examination of sample instances, design, program coding, testing and verification)

3. The basic components of computer networks (servers, file protection, routing protocols for connection/communication, spoolers and queues, shared resources, and fault-tolerance).

4. Organization of Internet elements, Web page design (forms, text, graphics, client- and server-side scripts), and hypermedia (links, navigation, search engines and strategies, interpretation, and evaluation).

5. The notion of hierarchy and abstraction in computing, including high-level languages, translation (compilers, interpreters, linking), machine languages, instruction sets, and logic circuits.

6. The connection between elements of mathematics and computer science, including binary numbers, logic, sets, and functions.

7. The notion of computers as models of intelligent behavior (as found in robot motion, speech and language understanding, and computer vision), and what distinguishes humans from machines.

8. Examples (like programming a telephone answering system) that identify the broad interdisciplinary utility of computers and algorithmic problem solving in the modern world.

9. Ethical issues that relate to computers and networks (including security, privacy, intellectual property, the benefits and drawbacks of public domain software, and the reliability of information on the Internet), and the positive and negative impact of technology on human culture.

10. Identification of different careers in computing and their connection with the subjects studied in this course (e.g., information technology specialist, Web page designer, systems analyst, programmer, CIO).

Sample Activities for Level II: Computer Science in the Modern World

Activity: Number Systems

Time: 4 hours

Description: Students develop an understanding of the relationship between the binary number system and computer logic. Also, students learn how to convert Base 10 numbers into binary and vice versa. Character representation of binary codes is explored. Students have the opportunity to experiment in writing their own message and decoding.

Level: II

Topics: 6—the connection between elements of mathematics and computer science, including binary numbers, logic, sets and functions.

Prior Knowledge: Understanding of the decimal number system and place value

Planning Notes:

• Review how programming software handles character representations.

• Have eight pennies for each pair of students and either a handout and/or overhead of bit information

• Review binary and base 10 conversions.

• Prepare coded messages for the students to decipher.

• Have copies of ASCII code available (both standard and extended).

Teaching/Learning Strategies:

• Show segment 3 of The Journey Inside video (8 min 25 sec—Intel Corporation. The Journey Inside. Part of The Journey Inside Education kit), or any other video that shows how computers turn pictures and colors into codes. Students gain an understanding of how information is communicated through the use of codes.

• Hand each pair of students eight pennies and work through the questions on bit information. Ask students what pattern they can see forming in the right column (numbers double).

• Students are challenged to count as high as they can on one hand and told the answer is greater than 10. While students ponder the challenge, teachers demonstrate, with the aid of a simple series circuit, the binary logic states of ONE and ZERO (TRUE and FALSE, HIGH and LOW) by equating them to series circuit lamp ON and OFF condition.

• Binary numbers are introduced by initiating finger counting on one hand—no fingers up is zero, thumb up is a one, index finger up is two, middle finger up is a four, ring finger is eight, and pinkie finger represents sixteen. Students demonstrate counting to 31 on one hand.

• This sets the stage for demonstrating how to convert numbers from Base 10 to Base 2 (binary). Work through several examples with students.

• Give students a quiz on binary conversion to assess their grasp of the concept.

• Handout the ASCII conversion information. Since computers cannot think like we do, they need a code to translate our language into data that they can process and then convert that data back into recognizable language.

• Students complete conversion exercises.

Assessment/Evaluation Techniques:

• Formative assessment of quiz at the end of the binary conversion exercise to prompt students on progress and show changes required for success of conversion application.

• Summative assessment of conversion exercises.

Accommodations:

Use extensive visual aids and demonstrations to assist students as needed.

Provide an enlarged copy of conversion methodology in classroom as well as ASCII character chart.

Use a variety of teaching styles to accommodate learning styles.

Provide appropriate adaptive devices or implementation accommodations for identified students.

Resources:

Adapted from the course profile for Computer Engineering Technology, Grade 10, Unit 2: Integrated Circuits (page 53) Ontario Ministry of Education (www.acse.net/resources.htm)

http://www.intel.com/education/journey/

Sample Activities for Level II: Computer Science in the Modern World

Activity: Setting up a Computer

Time: 2-1/2 hours

Description: Students set up a computer including installing available software and an operating system. Students connect, configure, and test all peripherals. Finally, students troubleshoot any problems that arise. All students set up a PC.

Level: II

Topics: 1—Students will gain a conceptual understanding of the principles of computer organization and the major components (input, output, memory, storage, processing, software, operating systems, etc.).

Prior Knowledge: Components of a computer system, correct terminology

Planning Notes:

• Prepare available samples of micro-controllers and PCs of various types.

• Determine the most effective use of existing hardware within the recommended time allotment (e.g., two to three students per computer).

• Open an older discarded hard drive for demonstration purposes.

• If resources are limited, a single system may be set up several times to accommodate all students.

• This activity is done with stand-alone machines to not interrupt a networked environment.

• The teacher should review the procedures in the attached appendices. This activity assumes that the computer system hard drive has been configured prior to the installation of the operating system.

• The actual system installation can be performed as a class “walk through”. The teacher can modify the process to have the individual groups perform the set-up task.

• The teacher should review the disk partitioning, formatting, scandisk operations, and information available in the Help files of the operating system (see Resources).

• Inventory the operating system CD-ROM and software key.

• Ensure all software is available for the full installation including operating systems, device drivers, and application software.

Teaching/Learning Strategies:

• Teachers and students review safety with static electricity and the importance of keeping contacts clean as they apply to components. Review the safety considerations when setting up a desktop computer (grounded plugs, using power bars, dangling cords, eliminating the danger of static electricity, and unplugging power supply before opening a PC, etc.).

• The teacher explains how hard drives work so that students can understand the utility functions they are required to complete by the end of the activity.

• Students use the equipment they require to complete the task, including the monitor, CPU, keyboard, mouse, and a printer, if available. The teacher explains any special considerations they need to know (e.g. positioning of computers for plugs in the room). Students use this information to create a checklist for the activity.

• Depending on the resources available, divide students into the appropriate number of groups. Students connect all the parts of their computer system. Circulate to help with troubleshooting and use questioning techniques to assist with problem solving.

• Once all components are connected, students load the operating system software. Students complete their personal checklist to keep in their portfolios.

• All groups must then test their software to ensure their system is working and that all  peripherals connected are functioning properly.

Assessment/Evaluation Techniques:

• A formative assessment through student discussion and observation, encouraging students to assess their thinking for successful completion of task.

• Assess student-created checklists. Provide students with written/oral feedback, to assist their success in upcoming related activities.

Accommodations:

Provide step-by-step instructions.

Provide a glossary of terms.

Provide visuals of different computer types.

Resources: Course Profile: Computer Engineering Technology, Grade 10, Unit 3: Networking (page 72) Ontario Ministry of Education (www.acse.net/resources.htm)

Sample Activities for Level II: Computer Science in the Modern World

Activity: Careers in Computer Engineering

Time: 3-3/4 hours

Description: A guest speaker is invited to share information about his/her job/career with the students. Students expand on their computer industry knowledge. Students look at degrees and certifications available and opportunities they have at the high school level and beyond to move them toward careers in the computer industry.

Level: II

Topic: 10—students will gain a conceptual understanding of the identification of different careers in computing and their connection with the subjects studied in this course (e.g. information technology specialist, Web page designer, systems analyst, programmer, CIO).

Prior Knowledge: Word-processing skills

Planning Notes:

§ Guest speakers may include the school sysop, board technician, or someone from the local community.

§ Collect information from a local university or community college, including school course calendars and college/university catalogues.

§ Gather copies of recent computer trade magazines.

§ Arrange ahead of time for a student to introduce guest speakers and another student to thank them.

§ Collect newspaper advertisements for jobs in the computer industry.

§ Distribute a sample certification worksheet

Teaching/Learning Strategies:

• Teachers introduce the expectations of the activity.

• Teachers review with students (ahead of time) questioning techniques for the guest speaker.

• One student may introduce the guest speaker. Students take brief notes in order to ask relevant and interesting questions. One student may thank the guest speaker.

• Discuss the speaker information with the students, after which they write their personal views on the information.

• Students look through trade magazines to see advances in the computer industry. Each student picks one article from a magazine to summarize or review using a word processor.

• Finally, students look at opportunities for different computer designations ranging from MCSE (Microsoft Certified Engineer) to computer engineering at the university level. Students use newspaper advertisements to explore what skills and designations are requested by potential employers.

• Students retrieve the certification chart file (either electronically or via handout) and, using designations discovered in the advertisement exercise above, they complete the chart and add it to their portfolio.

• Students create a plan on how to pursue a computer career, beginning with the completion of this course, and save the information in their portfolio (long-term goal).

Assessment and Evaluation:

• Review of student portfolio to provide written/oral feedback on completion and comprehension of tasks given.

• Evaluate the article review using the rubric provided.

Accommodations:

• Allow flexible timelines for due date of report.

• Use career center videos if available.

• Invite the Student Services resource personnel into the classroom.

• Videotape the guest speaker(s) presentation to allow students an opportunity to watch it again.

Resources:

Course Profile: Computer Engineering Technology, Grade 10, Unit 3: Networking (page 93), Ontario Ministry of Education (www.acse.net/resources.htm)

Sample Activities for Level II: Computer Science in the Modern World

(http://csta.acm.org/Curriculum/sub/k12final1022.pdf)

Activity: Connections Inside and Out

Time: 3-2/3 hours

Description: Students view the video The Journey Inside The Computer (from Intel Corporation

(http://secure.wesweb.com/intel/form.htm) and examine the individual internal components of the computer. Using resources available to them, students discover the importance of each component and its impact on the computer’s operations. The activity culminates with a series of problems that students must solve using the new knowledge. Finally, students use this information to suggest an alternative placement of computers within the school environment that makes a positive impact on the school community and demonstrates wise use of resources.

Level: II

Topics: 1—students will gain a conceptual understanding of the principles of computer organization and the major components (input, output, memory, storage, processing, software, operating systems, etc.).

3—students will gain a conceptual understanding of the basic components of computer networks (servers, file protection, queues, routing protocols for connection, communication, spoolers and queues, shared resources, and fault-tolerance).

Prior Knowledge:

• the differences between hardware and software; ability to record findings from observation;
• familiarity with the operating system they are using and the term network
• familiarity with internal components and their uses.

Planning Notes:

• Request permission for students to visit certain areas of the school during class time—plan this as an inschool field trip.

• Think of visiting a music midi lab, communication lab, front office, and any specialized resources specific to your local environment.

• Check with the site administrator if you are not sure of network type(s) available in the school.

• Prepare checklist of terms for student use during video.

• Arrange to have a computer site administrator from the school or board office or a computer technician speak to the class about networks and operating systems

• Have a school map available for students to take on tour and an overhead of the map for review.

• Check for materials from The Journey Inside The Computer kit available from Intel (Intel Corporation. The Journey Inside. Part of The Journey Inside Education kit.)

Teaching/Learning Strategies:

• show The Journey Inside The Computer video, Unit 4 on Microprocessors, then Unit 6 on Networking, with the purpose of reviewing computer components and extending student knowledge of networks and operating systems;

• take up terms sheet and have students complete definitions for words they are unfamiliar with (teachers may introduce students to the online dictionary at www.dictionary.com);

• share information on networks with students;

• indicate type(s) of networks currently used in the school environment;

• share information on operating systems with students;

• deliver short test on networks and operating systems;

• provide each student with a map of the school and explain tour route and any special routines required for secure areas;

• give students a simple key for marking on map (e.g., C = stand alone computer, L = lab, SL = specialized lab, S = server room, P = printer resource);

• return to the classroom and review the map on an overhead with input from students;

• encourage a discussion of how improvements that have been made in network and operating systems make a difference in a computer community such as a school;

• ask them to reflect on why they think the computer resources have been placed in the school the way they are;

• ask students to prepare a written brief of changes they would like to see in the school computer environment;

• direct students to include positive impact(s) their suggestions have on the school environment and incorporate their knowledge of networks;

• facilitate student pair/square and share of suggestions.

Assessment/Evaluation Techniques:

• a formative assessment in use of the review terms sheet, and

• an evaluation of test on networks and operating systems.

Accommodations:

• Give an oral test if appropriate;

• provide students with physical disabilities assistance if required;

• assist students with special needs with terms sheet.

Resources:

Course Profile: Computer and Information Science, Grade 10 Unit 4: The Computer and

Society (page 116), Ontario Ministry of Education (www.acse.net/resources.htm)

Topic 1: Principles of Computer Organization

(http://csta.acm.org/Curriculum/sub/Level_2_Objectives_Outline.pdf)

Topic Description:

Principles of Computer Organization will introduce the student to the major components of the computer including: input, output, memory, storage, processing, software, and the operating system.

Textbooks and Supplies:

A computer that can be opened up and taken apart; different types of computers and operating systems recommended. Printed advertising for computers, or a computer with Internet access for web research.

Time to Complete: 2 weeks

Student Learning Objectives	Assessment Measures
The student will be able to:
1. Identify the various functional components of a computer.	Lab activity Written activity
2. Match a list of computer terms and definitions/functions.	Written activity
3. Describe the interaction of the various functional components of the computer.	Lab activity Written activity
4. Make appropriate decisions when purchasing a computer for home use.	Written activity

Assessment Recommendations: An average of 60% from combined assessment measures is required to demonstrate proficiency in course material.
Lab activities	50%
Written activities, including tests, quizzes, and written assignments	50%

Detailed Outline
Focus	Sample Lab / Hands-on Activity
1. Terminology	Identify, define, and appropriately use the key terms associated with the computer and its components.
2. Identifying hardware components	Where possible, provide each student with the opportunity to take apart an old computer and locate and identify the various components.
3. Identifying software components	Discuss the role of system software and application software.
4. Describing the interaction of components	Students perform a role play where each student actor represents one component – hardware or software. Scripts describe their general actions; the teacher provides the data for the interactions.
5. Purchasing a computer	Students locate computer advertisements in print or online. A comparative table is created that lists the advantages and disadvantages of at least three advertised computers for possible personal use.
6. File systems and organization	Explain directory structure. Students create and use nested directories. Students should explain the advantages and disadvantages to a flat structure vs. a hierarchical structure methodology.
7. Diagnose & troubleshoot PC problems	Discuss common PC problems and solutions. Have students experience a practical lab where they must diagnose and fix a set of “broken” PCs (disconnected network cables, unplugged monitor cables, moved/deleted shortcut icons, etc.)

Topic 3: Basic Components of Computer Networks

(http://csta.acm.org/Curriculum/sub/Level_2_Objectives_Outline.pdf)

Topic Description:

Basic knowledge of networking will be introduced as a building block for understanding how computers communicate. The student will become familiar with the basic components of a computer network including servers, file protection, queues, routing protocols for connection/communication, spoolers, shared resources, and fault-tolerance. Computer security and protocols will be discussed.

Textbooks and Supplies:

As needed to demonstrate networking concepts.

Time to Complete: 2 weeks

Student Learning Objectives	Assessment Measures
The student will be able to:
1. Match a list of networking terms with their definitions.	Written activity
2. State the hardware requirements for adding a computer to a network.	Written activity
3. Connect a computer to a network.	Lab activity
4. State at least three security issues that can affect a computer that is connected to a network.	Written activity
5. Describe at least two network protocols and state the reason to select one over another.	Written activity

Assessment Recommendations: An average of 60% from combined assessment measures is required to demonstrate proficiency in course material.
Lab activities	50%
Written activities, including tests, quizzes, and written assignments	50%

Detailed Outline
Focus	Sample Lab / Hands-on Activity
1. Terminology	Students define a network and various networking terms.
2. Data transfer	Each student acts as a computer on a network using a designated network configuration. One student sends an object (data) across the network to another. Discuss how the second student knows the data belongs to him/her. Have the first student pass 20 heavy books across the network. Can they all be passed at once? Explain the concept of packets.
3. Data collision and network failure	Continuing the enactment from above, have a second student attempt to pass data at the same time as the original data is passing his/her connection, causing a collision. How can this be avoided? One student hurt his/her arm and can no longer pass the object. Discuss the possible problems and protections in modern networks. Students try several configurations, noting the effect on collision, fault tolerance, number of supported connections, and number of links from origin to source (points of insecurity).
4. Connecting a computer to a network	Discuss the hardware and software needed to connect a computer to a network.
5. Identity	Demonstrate, if possible, that every computer on a network has a unique address. Compare the address to a home phone number or house address. Discuss hierarchical addressing using examples like countryCode.areaCode.exchange.suffix, as compared to IP addresses and dynamic IP addresses compared to local extension within phone network.
6. Applications of networks	Discuss and list networks with which students have experience (e.g., phone, Internet, school LAN). Discuss the number of connections and the different purposes of each. Include specific applications of a network such as video conferencing and phone conferencing.
7. Mobile computing	Discuss wireless computing and specific applications that use wireless computing (e.g., PDA, handheld, laptop). Introduce mobile computing concepts and, as available, demonstrate the use of mobile devices.
8. Network Security	Lead students to a discussion of protecting privacy and security of passwords, etc. Who is responsible for maintaining important data? Discuss ways to protect a networked computer from outside threats.

Topic 4: Internet Concepts

(http://csta.acm.org/Curriculum/sub/Level_2_Objectives_Outline.pdf)

Topic Description:

Internet concepts will allow students to consider how Internet elements (e.g. email, chat, WWW) are organized, will engage students in effective searching, and will focus on productive use of e-mail.

Textbooks and Supplies:

Internet access; software to demonstrate Internet elements

Time to Complete: 1-2 weeks

Student Learning Objectives	Assessment Measures
The student will be able to:
1. List at least three strengths and weaknesses of each of three Internet elements and at least one use for each.	Lab activity Written activity
2. 2. Use at least two Internet elements.	Lab activity
3. Use appropriate tools and methods to execute Internet searches which yield requested data.	Lab activity
4. Develop and use a rubric to evaluate the results of web searches and reliability of information found on the web.	Lab activity

Assessment Recommendations: An average of 60% from combined assessment measures is required to demonstrate proficiency in course material.
Lab activities	70%
Written activities, including tests, quizzes, and written assignments	30%

Detailed Outline
Focus	Sample Lab / Hands-on Activity
1. Internet elements	Students use a variety of Internet elements, including those used primarily for one-way communication, private and group discussion, and collaboration. Students articulate the benefits and limits of different Internet elements and identify appropriate uses for each. Ethical and legal concerns should be discussed as desired.
2. Search engine fundamentals	Explanation of what a search engine is and how it functions. Cover similarities and differences between search engines such as advanced search commands, organization of output, whether they are influenced by hidden factors such as money. Compare identical searches in various search engines.
3. Search engines and directories	Brainstorm Web-based resources and categorize them. Compare and contrast their features. Try to find identical/similar information using a search engine and a directory. Articulate strengths and weaknesses of each and when it would be appropriate to use each.
4. Refining search parameters	Perform searches and use various methods to refine the search. Include advanced search features; Boolean operators; factors that affect results, such as spelling, wildcards, and quotes; use of different strategies, including keyword search. Compare results to expected results and continue to refine until expected results are met. Express desired document characteristics using logical (AND/OR/NOT) or set (union, intersection) operations.
5. Evaluating Web sites	Create an evaluation tool to use in determining reliability and quality of individual Web sites. Consider authorship, whether or not the author is an authority and/or has credibility. Evaluate several Web pages from  authorities to bogus resources such as the committee to ban dihydrogen monoxide.
6. Security on the Internet	Encryption: The teacher creates several different encryption keys. Students encrypt messages to one another using a designated key. The message is sent to another student to be decrypted, but the key is not. Discussion follows regarding protection when providing personal identification information like social security numbers and credit card numbers.

Topic 9: Ethical Issues

(http://csta.acm.org/Curriculum/sub/Level_2_Objectives_Outline.pdf)

Topic Description:

The proliferation of computers and networks raises a number of ethical issues. Technology has had both

positive and negative impacts on human culture. Students will be able to identify ethical behavior and

articulate both sides of ethical topics.

Textbooks and Supplies:

Word processing and presentation software recommended.

Time to Complete: 1 week with continual reinforcement as appropriate

Student Learning Objectives	Assessment Measures
The student will be able to:
1. Distinguish between ethical and legal issues in a case study by listing the issues that can be resolved through the legal system and those issues that cannot be legally resolved	Written activity
2. Defend an ethical stance given a controversial or ethically ambiguous situation in a debate.	Written or Oral activity
3. List and explain at least two positive and negative effects of one technological innovation on human culture.	Written activity
4. Define intellectual property and state the impact of provisions to protect it.	Written activity
5. Identify at least two benefits and two drawbacks of using commercial, public domain, open source, and shareware.	Written activity
6. Demonstrate behavior in the use of technology that conforms to school and local code	School activity

Assessment Recommendations: An average of 60% from combined assessment measures is required to demonstrate proficiency in course material.
Oral activities	10%
Written activities, including tests, quizzes, and written assignments	90%

Detailed Outline
Focus	Sample Lab / Hands-on Activity
1. Terminology	The difference between legal and ethical, where they overlap and where they don’t. Differences between values and ethics. Foundation in philosophical ethics. Create a list of criteria for determination of whether a decision is ethical. Create guidelines for ethical use and creation of technology.
2. How technology has changed ethical and legal issues	Discuss the ways that technology has increased access to personal and classified information, facilitated copying, and blurred jurisdictional boundaries. Include security issues. Examine case studies.
3. The effect of technology on human culture, including historical considerations	Choose one technological innovation from a provided list and write a paper explaining at least two positive and negative effects on users and others impacted by the innovation. Writing assignment to predict how technology may affect human culture in the future.
4. Privacy and sharing of personal information	Have students use search engines to search for Web pages about themselves. Alternatively, do a pre-search for students and collect information to present. Lead a discussion about the security and privacy of information on the Internet including e-mail. Consider the implication of copyright – who owns the images and information posted on these sites? Ask students if they have secrets that they do not want to share. How would they feel if someone were able to obtain that secret by snooping in their locked secure journal? How would they feel if the person then shares this private knowledge with the rest of the class? What can they do to prevent someone from obtaining their personal information, e.g., hide the key? Discuss possible hiding places and why some are better than others. Lead students to a discussion of protecting privacy on the Internet and security of passwords, etc.
5. Intellectual property, copyright, and fair use	Create a guide for other students outlining copyright, fair use, and adherence to the school AUP within the school context.
6. Responsible use of software	Compare and contrast the responsibilities of using commercial, public domain, shareware, and open source software. What are the benefits and limitations of each?

Topic 10: Careers in Computing

(http://csta.acm.org/Curriculum/sub/Level_2_Objectives_Outline.pdf)

Topic Description:

Careers in Computing will introduce the student to a range of jobs and careers available in the field of information technology and computing.

Textbooks and Supplies:

Internet access; Employment section of newspaper.

Time to Complete: 1 week

Student Learning Objectives	Assessment Measures
The student will be able to:
1. Create a chart of at least five careers available in the field of information technology and computing, including the career name, educational level necessary, experience requirements, job description, and salary range.	Written activity
2. Use an online job search site to determine if there is an opening for a specified job title.	Lab activity

Assessment Recommendations: An average of 60% from combined assessment measures is required to demonstrate proficiency in course material.
Lab activities	70%
Written activities, including tests, quizzes, and written assignments	30%

Detailed Outline
Focus	Sample Lab / Hands-on Activity
1. Job/Career Titles and Descriptions	Students use the Internet to research jobs available on job listing sites. Titles, descriptions, requirements, and, salary ranges are to be charted.
2. Guest Lecturers	Guest lecturers, from various technology-related careers, can be invited to talk with students about their jobs. Students have the opportunity to ask questions and solicit information.
3. Current Events	Students bring in articles and lead discussions on current events in the technology-related career sector.
4. Job Availability	Students use Web sites and the library to research labor statistics (local, national, and international) for a group of assigned computer careers.
5. The Perfect Job	Students write up a description of their ideal technology-related job/career.

Topic 12: Web Page Design and Development

(http://csta.acm.org/Curriculum/sub/Level_2_Objectives_Outline.pdf)

Topic Description:

The Web Page Design and Development topic will expose students to the steps needed to create simple Web pages. Students will learn to plan and code their Web pages and check for usability.

Textbooks and Supplies:

Computer with Internet access; ability to access a text editor; multiple browsers helpful; space on a web server for publication of completed Web pages recommended.

Time to Complete: 2-3 weeks

Student Learning Objectives	Assessment Measures
The student will be able to:
1. Correctly use HTML tags to create Web pages.	Written activity Lab activity
2. Apply styles to HTML documents to control presentation.	Written activity Lab activity
3. Express the design of a Web site using standard tools.	Lab activity
4. Create a Web site given design specifications	Lab activity
5. Publish a Web site.	Lab activity
6. Apply good design techniques when creating a Web site.	Lab activity
7. Explain the difference between interactive and static Web sites	Written activity

Assessment Recommendations: An average of 60% from combined assessment measures is required to demonstrate proficiency in course material.
Lab activities	70%
Written activities, including tests, quizzes, and written assignments	30%

Detailed Outline
Focus	Sample Lab / Hands-on Activity
1. Terminology	Identify and define key terms associated with Web page development.
2. What makes a good Web site?	Visit various Web sites and discuss good and bad qualities. A discussion should include ease of navigation, clear and concise message, intended audience, and accessibility.
3. Design a Web site	Choose a topic of common interest. Brainstorm the content as a class activity. Design the home page. Discuss accessibility. Redesign the home page. Each student selects one content area to design that must represent at least three related pages (e.g., dogs – dog shows, breeds, dogs as pets). A site map and storyboards are created.
4. Discuss HTML tags for these elements: forms, text, graphics, hyperlinks, multimedia, tables	Use each element in an HTML document as it is explained. Check to see that the elements are added in a manner that conforms to World Wide Web Consortium recommendations. Consider factors that affect flexibility such as relative vs. absolute links and serverside vs. client-side scripts.
5. Styles for presentation vs. presentation within markup	Discuss the role of styles vs. the structure and content of a document. Apply various styles to the HTML elements as they are explained. Check to see that the styles are added in a manner that conforms to World Wide Web Consortium recommendations.
6. Create a Web site from the design	Develop all pages. Check to see that the pages conform to World Wide Web Consortium recommendations.
7. Publish a Web site	Upload the pages and visit the site to test it
8. Evaluate the site	View the site in different ways – multiple browsers, resolution settings, etc. Discussion: Is this a good Web site? Make sure to include accessibility issues in discussion.
9. Interactivity	Introduce the necessity for interactive Web pages. Discuss the dynamic capabilities of the Web and the need for scripting. Visit a dynamic Web site. How does the information that you provide affect what you see? Select a static Web site. List ways to make the site interactive. Will the changes be advantageous to all viewers?
10. Web development tools	Create a Web site using a Web development tool. View the HTML and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of WYSIWYG software.

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Topic 14: Applications

(http://csta.acm.org/Curriculum/sub/Level_2_Objectives_Outline.pdf)

Topic Description:

Students will be required to think analytically to select appropriate tools to solve problems. The problems will require use of major application types such as word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation software. The problems will also require analytical thinking in design and layout of the solution. New concepts in the use of productivity software will be introduced such as macros, multi-table database design, creation, and maintenance, integration between applications, and importing/exporting data.

Textbooks and Supplies:

Appropriate application software.

Time to Complete: 2 weeks

Student Learning Objectives	Assessment Measures
The student will be able to:
1. Select the appropriate application(s) to use for a particular project.	Written activity Lab activity
2. Use integrated software productively.	Lab activity
3. Design, create, use, and maintain a multi-table relational database	Lab activity

Assessment Recommendations: An average of 60% from combined assessment measures is required to demonstrate proficiency in course material.
Lab activities	80%
Written activities, including tests, quizzes, and written assignments	20%

Detailed Outline
Focus	Sample Lab / Hands-on Activity
1. Terminology	Explain terminology as needed throughout unit (e.g., import, export, relation, etc.)
2. Software categories	Have students brainstorm various applications and broadly categorize them (ex: productivity, financial, multimedia, imaging, educational, entertainment, communication). Discuss the purpose of various types of software and how they improve certain tasks. List the strengths and weaknesses of each type.
3. Spreadsheet as a table	Students create a small database using a spreadsheet. Examine the benefits and limitations of using a spreadsheet for database purposes.
4. Relational database design	Students are given a situation, engage in needs analysis, and design a relational database, considering the relationships between tables, data types, and normalization.
5. Creating and maintaining a database	Students create, modify, and use a multi-table relational database. The implementation must match the design.
6. Retrieving information from a database: queries and SQL	Students use queries to ask specific questions of the database. They revise queries where necessary to narrow their search. The importance of using a structured method of finding information should be stressed.
7. Organizing Information	Students create reports and presentations using various applications, presenting the data in a manner that coherently provides a solution to a stated problem.
8. Problem solving	Students are presented with a problem. They select appropriate software applications and use the selected software to solve the stated problem.
9. Integration	Students are given a file in a text or delimited format and must import it into an application. The data is manipulated and exported to one or more additional applications.
10. Productivity	Students are asked to perform a repetitive process in a given application. A macro is recorded and used to perform the repetitive function. Discuss the benefits of using macros. Are there any limitations? Include security issues in your discussion.