Summary for 6th Grade Computer Science

Unit 1: Problem Solving and Computing

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To access the curriculum guides for 6th grade, click on the following:

Excel
Book

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Duration: 21 days

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Overview: Unit 1 focuses on introducing students to the fundamentals of problem-solving and computing. Students learn to define problems, brainstorm solutions, develop algorithms, and write simple programs using Blockly. The unit emphasizes the importance of clear problem definitions, effective brainstorming techniques, and iterative improvement through debugging and refining algorithms.

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Key Concepts:

• Problem-solving process: Define, Plan, Try, Reflect, Revise

• Algorithm development

• Basic programming concepts using Blockly

• Debugging and iterative improvement
   

Activities:

• Introduction to the problem-solving process

• Group activities to define and solve problems

• Creating and testing algorithms for daily tasks

• Writing and refining programs using Blockly

• Debugging sample code
   

Skills Developed:

• Defining and analyzing problems

• Developing and applying algorithms

• Writing basic programs and debugging code

• Reflecting on and improving solutions
   

Assessment:

• Group work artifacts and presentations

• Algorithm worksheets and refined programs

• Reflection entries on the debugging and iterative improvement process
   

Special Education Accommodations:

• Visual aids and step-by-step instructions

• Pairing students for collaborative work

• Use of graphic organizers and manipulatives
   

Unit 2: Web Development

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Duration: 24 days

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Overview: Unit 2 introduces students to web development, focusing on HTML and CSS. Students learn to create and style web pages, understand the structure and syntax of HTML and CSS, and design simple websites. The unit covers the basics of web development, from planning and designing to building and testing web pages.

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Key Concepts:

• HTML structure and syntax

• CSS for styling web pages

• Principles of web design

• Planning and designing a simple website

• Building, testing, and refining web pages
   

Activities:

• Introduction to HTML and creating basic web pages

• Adding style with CSS

• Enhancing web pages with advanced CSS techniques

• Planning and designing web projects

• Building and testing web pages

• Reflecting on the web development process

• Presenting web development projects
   

Skills Developed:

• Creating and styling web pages using HTML and CSS

• Planning and designing simple websites

• Testing and refining web pages

• Reflecting on and presenting web development projects
   

Assessment:

• Basic and enhanced web pages created by students

• Project plans, wireframes, and initial web pages

• Reflection entries and revised web pages

• Presentation artifacts and feedback forms
   

Special Education Accommodations:

• Visual aids and step-by-step instructions

• Pairing students for collaborative work

• Use of templates, guided practice, and manipulatives
   

Overall Goals
 

• Foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills

• Introduce foundational programming and web development concepts

• Encourage iterative improvement and reflection

• Develop collaborative and communication skills through group activities and presentations

These units provide a comprehensive introduction to computer science, preparing students with the foundational skills needed for more advanced topics in future grades. 

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