ICS 2O1

This course introduces students to computer programming. Students will plan and write simple computer programs by applying fundamental programming concepts, and learn to create clear and maintainable internal documentation. They will also learn to manage a computer by studying hardware configurations, software selection, operating system functions, networking, and safe computing practices. Students will also investigate the social impact of computer technologies, and develop an understanding of environmental and ethical issues related to the use of computers. PREREQUISITE: None

UNDERSTANDING COMPUTERS

By the end of the course students will:

• Describe the functions of different types of hardware components, and assess the hardware needs of users.
• Describe the different types of software products, and assess the software needs of users.
• Use the basic functions of an operating system correctly.
• Demonstrate an understanding of home computer networking concepts.
• Explain the importance of software updates and system maintenance to manage the performance and increase the security of a computer.

INTRODUCTION TO PROGRAMMING

By the end of the course students will:

• Describe fundamental programming concepts and constructs.
• Plan and write simple programs using fundamental programming concepts.
• Apply basic code maintenance techniques when writing programs.

COMPUTERS AND SOCIETY

By the end of the course students will:

• Describe key aspects of the impact of computers and related technologies on society.
• Describe computer use policies that promote environmental stewardship and sustainability.
• Describe legal and ethical issues related to the use of computing devices.
• Describe postsecondary education and career prospects related to computer studies.

The graduate is expected to be:

• A discerning believer formed in the Catholic Faith community who celebrates the signs and sacred mystery of God's presence through word, sacrament, prayer, forgiveness, reflection and moral living.
• An effective communicator who speaks, writes and listens honestly and sensitively, responding critically in light of gospel values.
• A reflective, creative and holistic thinker who solves problems and makes responsible decisions with an informed moral conscience for the common good.
• A self-directed, responsible, lifelong learner who develops and demonstrates their God-given potential.
• A collaborative contributor who finds meaning, dignity and vocation in work which respects the rights of all and contributes to the common good.
• A caring family member who attends to family, school, parish, and the wider community.
• A responsible citizen who gives witness to Catholic social teaching by promoting peace, justice and the sacredness of human life.

UNIT 1:  Hardware, Software and Networks
UNIT 2:  Introduction to GameMaker
UNIT 3:  Advanced Tools and Techniques
UNIT 4:  Computers and Society
UNIT 5:  Introduction to GML Programming
UNIT 6:  Putting It All Together

Evidence of student achievement for evaluation is collected over time from three different sources – observations, conversations, and student products. Student products may be in the form of tests or exams and/or assignments (which may include rich performance tasks, demonstrations, projects, and/or essays). The final grade will be determined based on term work (70%) and a final evaluation (30%), comprised of a Culminating Performance Task (15%) and a Final Exam (15%).

Within these two areas, marks will be obtained using the four categories specified in the Ontario Curriculum Grades 10 to 12: Computer Studies, 2008.

KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING (25%)

• Knowledge of content (e.g., facts, technical terminology, definitions, procedures, standards).
• Understanding of content (e.g., concepts, principles, methodologies, use of tools).

THINKING (25%)

• Use of planning skills (e.g., focusing research, gathering information, selecting strategies, organizing a project).
• Use of processing skills (e.g., analysing, interpreting, assessing, reasoning, evaluating, integrating, synthesizing).
• Use of critical/creative thinking processes (e.g., evaluation of computer solutions, problem solving, decision making, detecting and correcting flaws, research).

COMMUNICATION (20%)

• Expression and organization of ideas and information (e.g., clear expression, logical organization) in oral, visual, and written forms, including electronic forms (e.g., presentations, charts, graphs, tables, maps, models, web pages, reports).
• Communication for different audiences (e.g., peers, computer users, company supervisor) and purposes (e.g., to inform, to persuade) in oral, visual, and written forms, including electronic forms.
• Use of conventions, vocabulary, and terminology of the discipline in oral, visual, and written forms, including electronic forms.

APPLICATION (30%)

• Application of knowledge and skills (e.g., concepts, procedures, processes, use of tools) in familiar contexts.
• Transfer of knowledge and skills (e.g., choice of tools and software, ethical standards, concepts, procedures, technologies) to new contexts.
• Making connections within and between various contexts (e.g., between computer studies and personal experiences, opportunities, social and global challenges and perspectives; between subjects and disciplines).