Name:____________________________

Date:___________ Period:________
Exploring Computer Science

I think everybody in this country should learn how to program a computer because it teaches
you how to think. ~Steve Jobs

All programmers are playwrights and all computers are lousy actors. ~Anonymous


What is this class all about?
Exploring Computer Science will give you an introduction to the field of computer science. You
will work with your peers to create websites, computer games, and robots. Throughout the
course you will examine the ethics of privacy and use 21
st
century technologies to collect and
analyze data. You will be challenged to use your new knowledge to make your school and
community a better place.

In this class we work together to make sure that everyone in learning. We are kind to each other
and we understand that mistakes are an important part of the learning process. We believe that
we learn best when we have a positive attitude, we try our hardest, we follow classroom
expectations, and we support one another.

What will I be learning this year?
Exploring computer science consists of six units. In unit one, you will investigate the major
components of computers. You will learn how to be a computational thinker in the second
unit. The focus of unit three is web design. We will begin programming in unit 4. You will use
scratch to create animated stories and video games. You will extend your programing
knowledge in unit 5 by interpreting data using Python. We will finish the year with a robotics
unit. In this unit you will build and program a robot.

Who will be working with us?
Ms. Brown will be your teacher for this course. You can use the information below to contact
her.

Room B-34
Phone: 831-392-3530
Email: mbrown@mpusd.k12.ca.us
Website: http://sites.google.com/site/msbrownalgebra2

What do I need to bring to class?
Spiral bound notebook or composition book
A pen or pencil
A USB flash drive





Name:____________________________
Date:___________ Period:________
How will I be graded?
The grade will consist of 3 weighted areas: practice, process, and product. Practice is 20% of the
grade and it includes journal entries and skill building exersizes. Process is 30% of the grade this
includes collaborative projects and presentations. Product is 50% of the grade. This category
contains quizzes and final projects at the end of each unit.

Will I have to complete work outside of school?
You will be asked to collect data and interview community members outside of class. Also,
there will be times when you are not able to complete an assignment in class. In order to meet
deadlines, you may have to finish after school.

What should I do if I am absent?
If you are absent it is your responsibility to find out what you missed and turn it in a timely
manner.

What will happen if I do not meet behavior expectations?
Everyone in this class deserves to learn in a safe environment where he/she feels valued and
respected. Students who inhibit the learning of others will have consequences. Depending on
the frequency and gravity of the behavior these might include verbal warnings, being held after
class, parent notification, written apology letters, behavior modification strategies, PBIS
monitoring, and referals to the office.

Are there consequences for cheating?
Yes, its not worth it! Violations of academic integrity will result in a failing grade for the
assignment and conference with the student, parent, teacher, and/ or administration.

What if I need help?
I am more than happy to help you. If you have a question please ask! My office hours are
Tuesday and Thursday from 3:15-4:00. I can also arrange to meet with you at other times if you
would like to make an appointment.
















Name:____________________________
Date:___________ Period:________
This is going to be a great year! How do I get started?
Please take this paper home and review it with a parent or an adult that is a significant part of
your life. Sign below if you understand the information included in the syllabus.

Student signature date

Adult signature date

Parents and adult mentors:

Please know that I appreciate your support! I want to work together to make sure that your child
has the best experience possible. The information you provide below will help me communicate
with you throughout the school year.

Phone number:_________________________________________

Email address:__________________________________________


If you have any concerns or if there is anything you would like me to know about your student,
please explain in the space below.
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