Why Learn of Computer Science?

Summary

Materials

• Day 3 PowerPoint deck
• Good vs. Bad Technologies Worksheet
• Good vs. Bad Technologies Worksheet (in Word)
• Jeannette M. Wing's "Computational Thinking" Article

Instructional Activities and Classroom Assessments

1. The most powerful computer in the world (5 minutes)
2. What is computer "Software"? (5 minutes)
3. Elements of a Computing System (5 minutes)
4. Why should we learn about Computer Science? (10 minutes)
5. Good vs. Bad Technologies (15 minutes)
6. Homework

Learning Objectives

• IOC-1.A Explain how an effect of computing innovation can be both beneficial and harmful.
• CSN-1.A Explain how computing devices work together in a network.

Essential Knowledge

• IOC-1.A.4 A single effect can be viewed as both beneficial and harmful by different people, or even by the same person.
• CSN-1.A.1 A computing device is a physical artifact that can run a program. Some examples include computers, tablets, servers, routers, and smart sensors.
• CSN-1.A.2 A computing system is a group of computing devices and programs working together for a common purpose.

Details

1. The most powerful computer in the world (5 minutes)

• Discuss Summit supercomputer
• Discuss Quantum computing
• If you feel you have extra time, watch the Quantum computing video (in the notes of the PPT)

2. What is computer "Software"? (5 minutes)

• Define computer software
• Discuss the variety of examples

3. Elements of a Computing System (5 minutes)

• Discuss the elements of a computing system:
  • Software
  • Hardware
  • Network
  • Data

4. Why should we learn about Computer Science? (10 minutes)

• Lead students in a discussion about why we should learn about Computer Science.
• Use the following questions to guide the discussion:
  • Have you ever wondered how some technology works? Or tried to fix/setup a piece of technology? Tell us the story.
  • Has anyone ever asked you how some piece of technology works? Like your parents or grandparents? Tell us the story.
  • Did you ever have an idea for a new technology? Or wish that an app/game/device had some different features or could do something? Tell us the story.
  • Why do you think it's important for people to know about technology and how computers work?
  • What kind of jobs/careers work with computers?

5. Good vs. Bad Technologies (15 minutes)

• Students will work in small groups to complete the Good vs. Bad Technologies Activity.
• Students will explore and discuss technologies that they view are good and bad.

6. Homework

• If there is time, students can start their homework.
• Students will read Jeanette Wing's Computational Thinking article.
• Encourage students to annotate the article as they read it.
• Encourage students to write down vocabulary words they are unfamiliar with.