Unit 1 - Problem Solving and Computing ('22-'23)

Problem Solving and Computing is a highly interactive and collaborative introduction to the field of computer science, as framed within the broader pursuit of solving problems. You’ll practice using a problem solving process to address a series of puzzles, challenges, and real world scenarios. Next, you’ll learn how computers input, output, store, and process information to help humans solve problems. The unit concludes with a project in which you design an application that helps solve a problem of your choosing.

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Chapter 1: The Problem Solving Process

Description

This chapter guides students to develop and adopt a more formal structured problem solving process by reflecting on problems they have problems they have encountered, both in the classroom and everyday life. By working through a diverse set of problems, such as logic puzzles, engineering challenges, and planning a trip, students learn to identify different classes of problems, decompose large problems, and develop their personal problem solving skills.

Big questions

What strategies and processes can I use to become a more effective problem solver?

Lesson 1: Intro to Problem Solving

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Lesson 2: The Problem Solving Process

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Lesson 3: Exploring Problem Solving

Lesson Resources

Chapter 2: Computers and Problem Solving

Description

This chapter presents computers as machines that solve information problems. Students begin by building a common definition for a computer that focuses on functionality instead of specific hardware. They then explore the ways that computers approach problems. For their final project, students propose an app that could be used to solve a problem of their choosing.