Wednesday, August 29, 2018

CSD: The Problem Solving Process U1L03

Code.Org Discoveries (Middle School Curriculum)
- Please go to Code.Org/join and enter the following code to join the class:
- Once you have joined the class, please complete the student pre-course survey!

Objective

In this lesson students apply the problem solving process to three different problems in order to better understand the value of each step. They will solve a word search, arrange seating for a birthday party, and plan a trip. The problems grow increasingly complex and poorly defined to highlight how the problem solving process is particularly helpful when tackling these types of problems. The lesson concludes with students reflecting on their experience with the problem solving process. They will justify the inclusion of each step and will brainstorm questions or strategies that can help them better define open-ended problems, as this is often the most critical step.
This lesson will likely take two class periods or more to complete. The first two problems may fit into a single class period but the third will need to be moved to a second day.

Purpose

This lesson provides students with more practice with the problem solving process in a variety of contexts. It highlights the fact that the problem solving process is particularly helpful when approaching poorly defined problems. The final brainstorm of the lesson provides students with some strategies and questions they can ask to better define problems for themselves, since this is often the most critical step. The problems seen in this lesson also help to drive a discussion in the following lesson about the types of problems that computers are well-suited to solve.

Agenda

CSTA K-12 Computer Science Standards



AP - Algorithms & Programming
  • 1B-AP-08 - Compare and refine multiple algorithms for the same task and determine which is the most appropriate.
  • 1B-AP-11 - Decompose (break down) problems into smaller, manageable subproblems to facilitate the program development process.
  • 1B-AP-13 - Take on varying roles, with teacher guidance, when collaborating with peers during the design, implementation and review stages of program development.


Monday, August 27, 2018

SOS.FBI.GOV / NSTEENS

Today you will work on the FBI SOS Program. Please go to the link below and follow the instructions on the Student Section. You must work on each task in the 7th or 8th Grade Section. You will have time in class to finish some of the levels. 


Next Monday, when you feel you have gone through all the levels, you must ask me for a code to take the QUIZ! You will receive a grade for the QUIZ and I will be notified when you have completed the program.  If you do not complete this program, and finish the quiz, prior to the end of the Marking Period, you will take a zero on this project. Take your time and Good Luck! -Mr. S

When You Are Done:

1.  Go to NSTeens.org and take the CHALLENGE (CLICK HERE)

Both the SOS.FBI.GOV QUIZ and the NSTeens CHALLENGE are graded tasks for class!    The SOS.FBI.GOV Quiz is worth up to 100 points, and the NSTeens Challenge (Certificate must be emailed by student, directly from the NSTeens Challenge Final Page, to Mr. S at hscribner@ccs.us for credit) is worth 50 points. 

IMPORTANT NOTE: For NSTeens Challenge students must put their FULL NAME on the Certificate for Credit prior to emailing it to me!  

OBJECTIVE & STUDENT OUTCOMES
 Students will begin to understand vocabulary and themes about Internet Safety & Security.  Students will work with online resources to identify ways to protect themselves and others online, become better digital citizens, and to monitor online behavior at home.

STUDENTS MUST READ ALL DIRECTIONS ON THIS WEBSITE
PRIOR TO STARTING ANY ASSIGNED TASKS.

Students will enter the class quietly and quickly.  Students will go to SOS.FBI.GOV and begin working on grade-specific levels.  Students will complete each section of the online tutorial individually and at their own pace.  Students will also follow and take the NSTEENS CHALLENGE online and submit a Certificate of Completion to the instructor via GMAIL.

Friday, August 24, 2018

Life Goals Assessment / Essential "55" Reflection

A "Life Worth Living" Reflection Class Meeting Time:

Today I want you to think about your goals in life. Please review the following video in class: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ja-n5qUNRi8 and participate in a brief discussion afterwards. What is the main message of the video?  How can you apply that message to your life?  What decisions will you make because of that message as you grow and mature?  Should others watch this video (why/why not)?

ESSENTIAL "55" by Ron Clark Worksheet Project:

Please follow the directions on the worksheet you received in class to complete this project for credit. MAKE SURE YOUR READ ALL OF THE "55" RULES PRIOR TO CHOOSING THREE (3) TO WRITE ABOUT ON THE WORKSHEET. If you do not get a worksheet in class, or you want to complete this at home for any reason, I am providing links to a Google Document copy of the worksheet. You will need to Click the Link to the "Essential 55 Goal Worksheet" and it will open in your Google Drive. Click FILE and MAKE A COPY to create a copy of the worksheet in your own Google Drive. Complete the worksheet and then SHARE it with Mr. S (hscribner@ccs,us) for credit.

NOTE: IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO MAKE UP A "RULE", YOU MAY INCLUDE ONE IN THE THIRD SPACE PROVIDED ON THE WORKSHEET.

Here are the links you will need:


Next week, in class, we will begin to work on more exciting projects.  If you have completed both of these assignments, and turned in your worksheets, please go to Code.Org and work on your Express Course.  You may also work on your EAE Project Proposals.  I expect EVERYONE to have at least one project ready for review by next Friday.  Have a great weekend!

-Mr. S



OBJECTIVE & STUDENT OUTCOMES
Students will reflect on their goals and talents after viewing a video designed to help them understand how important it is to recognize the power of having dreams and setting realistic goals to achieve them.

Students will also use class time to review the "Essential 55" document, choose their TOP 3 Rules, write each rule, and explain why they chose the rule. Worksheets are due before class ends.

STUDENTS MUST READ ALL DIRECTIONS ON THIS WEBSITE PRIOR TO STARTING ANY ASSIGNED TASKS. PLEASE FOLLOW ALL DIRECTIONS AS GIVEN FOR FULL CREDIT!

ALL STUDENTS CAN WORK ON Typing.com, Code.Org, Khan Academy, or something for another class.  If they are working quietly, they may use headphones to listen to music while they work.  If they are spending more time picking music, or watching YouTube (or others), music privileges can be revoked at any time!

Thursday, August 23, 2018

Code.Org Express Course (Self-Paced Learning) S1 18/19

Code.Org Express Course Introduction:
Excerpt taken directly from https://code.org/educate/curriculum/express-course
Computer Science Fundamentals Express is a 30+ hour course designed for 9-18 year old students (with an option for pre-readers). It can be taught once a week in a tech class or an after school club, integrated as a unit in a longer technology class, or used as an intro unit in a computer science class. 
Students learn to create computer programs that will help them learn to collaborate with others, develop problem-solving skills, and persist through difficult tasks. They will study programming concepts, computational thinking, digital citizenship, and develop interactive games or stories they can share.
The course teaches the foundational concepts of programming using drag and drop blocks rather than a programming language such as JavaScript or Python. Blocks are an easier way to get started and many top Universities today begin their classes with block based programming.
The Express Course combines the concepts taught in our elementary school courses in an accelerated fashion designed for older students.

 Step 1:  Sign into your Code.Org Account (See Instructions Below For Information):

  • SIGN INTO YOUR GOOGLE GMAIL ACCOUNT
  • GO TO CODE.ORG AND CLICK "SIGN IN WITH GOOGLE+"
  • GO TO CODE.ORG/JOIN AND USE CLASS CODE ON BOARD 

Step 2:  Go To Your "Code Studio" and click on EXPRESS COURSE


Step 3:  Begin working on the online levels.  Please use your time to review the UNPLUGGED Levels, but move on to the online material in class.  The Express Course should be completed by the end of the marking period, either in class or as homework.  Please use your time at home to show your family what you are working on.  Your homework assignment is to "TEACH" someone in your family to code!

Good Luck, and Have Fun!

-Mr. S

ACADEMIC/LEARNING OBJECTIVE
Scholars will learn basic computer programming using Code.Org online. Scholars will understand the basic vocabulary used in programming. Scholars will also be able to explain why it is important for everyone to learn to code and how it can provide equity in our society. 

STUDENTS WILL ENTER THE CLASS QUIETLY AND BEGIN WORKING! 

Scholars will sign up for accounts on Code. Org and begin working through the program online. Scholars will complete their Introduction to Programming by emailing a link to the R2-D2 Star Wars Game they made to the instructor for credit. Scholars will then click on the EXPRESS COURSE and begin working on the Stages found there. These stages will review topics and ideas from the Star Wars levels, and allow Scholars to begin to learn about loops, if-then statements, and how math and algorithms are incorporated into programming. 

THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION AND POSITIVE ATTITUDE TODAY!

Standards Covered In This Class 
PA 3.7.7 & 11 Section C / ISTE 2011
CSTA Tied With Common Core ELA/Math rev. 2011 
Introduction to Computer Programming (Code.Org)

Tuesday, August 21, 2018

Self Reflection (Week 1): How Do You Learn Best?

How Do You Learn Best? Learning Syle / L&R Brain Survey / Executive Functions / Typing Test

Today you will learn about HOW YOU LEARN BEST! Please follow the directions below to complete a series of survey's that will give you some insight on your Learning Styles, your Left/Right Brain Dominance, and your Executive Functions. You may choose to watch the videos associated with each survey (with headphones only), or just complete the surveys themselves. Please fill out the form in class, and complete the ONLINE SURVEY at the end. Make sure to complete both for credit. See you tomorrow!

- Mr. S

Google Drive Individualized Survey Results Form

1. LEARNING STYLES: Many people recognize that each person prefers different learning styles and techniques. Learning styles group common ways that people learn. Everyone has a mix of learning styles. Some people may find that they have a dominant style of learning, with far less use of the other styles. Others may find that they use different styles in different circumstances. There is no right mix. Nor are your styles fixed. You can develop ability in less dominant styles, as well as further develop styles that you already use well.  Please watch the Video (Click Here) and take the Inventory below.  Record you answers on the form and then enter them in the ONLINE SURVEY for credit.

Learning Style Inventory


2. LEFT/RIGHT BRAIN DOMINANCE: According to the theory of left-brain or right-brain dominance, each side of the brain controls different types of thinking. Additionally, people are said to prefer one type of thinking over the other. For example, a person who is "left-brained" is often said to be more logical, analytical, and objective. Watch the video below and take the survey. Record your answers on the paper and then enter them on the ONLINE SURVEY for credit  Watch the Video Here (Click).   Please take the following surveys that will help you to identify your learning style and whether you are left or right brain dominant:



3. EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONS: The Executive Functions are a set of processes that all have to do with managing oneself and one's resources in order to achieve a goal. It is an umbrella term for the neurologically-based skills involving mental control and self-regulation. Watch The Video (Click Here)

Executive Functions Survey

4. TYPING TEST: When you are finished take the typing test (1 minute, any topic you like, and record your Words Per Minute):



When complete, you must also click the Student Survey Form Below and enter your results. Begin working on improving your typing skills right away!


If you want to learn more about how you learn, and find some resources to help you become a better student (in all your classes), check out the link to http://www.educationplanner.org/students/self-assessments/index.shtml for more information!

OBJECTIVE & STUDENT OUTCOMES
  Students will be able to identify their individual Learning Style, Left or Right Brain Dominance, Executive Functions, and be tested on their basic typing skills.  Students will complete the Self-Assessments for each activity and record scores on the EXIT TICKET.  Students will also transfer those scores to the online Google Form to add them to the school spreadsheet for credit.  When complete, students will use spare time to improve individual typing skills.

STUDENTS MUST READ ALL DIRECTIONS ON THIS WEBSITE PRIOR TO STARTING ANY ASSIGNED TASKS.  PLEASE FOLLOW ALL DIRECTIONS AS GIVEN FOR FULL CREDIT!

Students will enter the class quietly and quickly.  Students will be given specific directions and examples of why the information may be valuable to know about Learning Styles, L/R Brain Dominance, Executive Functions, and Typing Speed.  Students will complete all assessments and be able to accurately record scores.  Students will use time wisely and spend any additional time in class, or at home, finishing projects currently due.

Wednesday, August 15, 2018

Welcome To STEAM Enrichment (CCS-515)

STEAM Enrichment
(Science-Technology-Engineering-Art-Math) 
Grades: 7 and 8 Term: Semester I (18-19) 
Prerequisite: Computer Skills & Applications 

Location: Collegium Charter School - 515, Room 352, Exton, PA
Contact: hscribner@ccs.us / Cell: 484-674-5011
Tutorial Time: On Request.
Conference Period: Lunch / Before or After School by Appointment

Course Description:  Students will use prior knowledge and technology skills to complete individual and team exploration projects using various "Maker-Space" style stations. Emphasis on coding, robotics, physics, and other disciplines will be encouraged. Students will be required to work both independently, and on team projects, to show mastery of the investigative process, scientific method, collaborative organization, and the engineering design process. Students will be encouraged to imagine, create, plan, experiment, and revise their projects. All work will require prior approval and supporting documentation (ELA). Projects will be presented, as they are completed, to the class. Each marking period there will be a different, primary focus, and students will be able to self-direct their investigations according to individual interests or current events and topics. Safety, Investigative Processes, and Project-Based Learning will be emphasized.


The information provided below is posted on a public website and scholars are assumed to have read, understand, and follow all protocol and rules listed. Scholars will be bound by these rules and regulations upon entering Collegium Charter School and cannot claim ignorance of the rules as a defense for poor behavior or poor preparation. Any questions or concerns may be directed to me at hscribner@ccs.us. Parents/Guardians are encouraged to review these rules and procedures in full with every Collegium Scholar. Technology equipment, network access, and internet access are for official student use only, and may only be used to access appropriate content as outlined in the Collegium Charter School Policies and Procedures.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: ALL Building 515 Collegium Scholars are REQUIRED to use their Collegium issued Google Applications for Education GMail Address and Log-In Information while accessing CCS Electronic Equipment. 

NO PERSONAL EMAIL ADDRESSES may be used to Access Computers or Networks or Submit Assignments. All communications to and from students, parents, teachers or staff should comply with CCS Policies and Procedures. Please log into POWERSCHOOL to view Scholar grades and assignments.

MR. SCRIBNER’S CLASSROOM RULES

1. Scholars are to enter the classroom calmly and quietly and go immediately to their assigned seats. You are to sit at a 90-degree angle to your desk with your feet on the floor and good posture (spine straight).

2. Scholars are to be in their seats and prepared to work at the beginning of the period. If you are not in your seat with your materials at the beginning of the period you are tardy. Be working on the assignment on the board/website immediately upon entering.

3. Scholars are to show respect at all times and in all manners toward themselves, others, and staff. This includes all verbal and non-verbal forms of communication including body language, facial expression and tone of voice.

4. Scholars are to be on task AT ALL TIMES and work to the best of their ability. This means you are to be working on whatever assignment is given with all of your concentration. If you are finished with an assignment early, you may read or sit quietly and wait for others. Please collaborate and communicate about the topic-at-hand and limit your off-topic conversations while working.

5. There is absolutely no gum, food, drink, candy, make-up, mirrors, electronic devices or any other distraction allowed in my class. Any of these visible will be immediately confiscated and picked up after school. Class time is for learning.

6. Scholars are to be prepared with all papers, pens, pencils, notebooks and any other materials required for class. Do not waste class time to ask to sharpen your pencil, needing paper, throwing out trash, or any other trivial matter. Be a professional student and take care of it quietly or prior to class.

7. You are to raise your hand to get permission to speak during direct instruction time. Raising your hand does not give you permission to speak; it just lets me know you want to speak. You are never to leave your seat without first raising your hand and receiving permission. This requirement is adjusted during group/team or independent work time.

8. I do not argue with Scholars. If you are told to move your seat or given any other direction you are to do so immediately and without complaint. If you feel this or any other direction is unreasonable you may arrange to discuss it with me, your counselor or arrange a parent conference on your own time. Otherwise, follow all directions immediately and without complaining. Class time is for learning.

9. You are to remain in your seat until dismissed by Mr. Scribner (or designated substitute). You are responsible to clean any trash in your area whether it is yours or not. Keep all trash with you until the bell rings and throw it out on your way out of the classroom.

10. I do not give warnings. This is your warning. Any violation of these rules will be met immediately with a 10-minute detention to be served after school and/or other consequences such as copying the rules, parent conference, or meeting with the principal.

12. If you do not come to the 10-minute detention, you will then be required to attend a full 45-minute detention and your parent/guardian will be notified of the issue. Consecutive missed detentions will result in further disciplinary action. No matter what other consequence you receive, you will have to make up the 10-minute detention.

Classroom Information and Procedures

Respect Yourself – Respect Others AT ALL TIMES

Be Prepared with Materials – Be on Time – Be Ready to Learn

Scholars are expected to have achieved a certain level of appropriate behavior given the number of years they have been exposed to classroom rules and procedures. Expected behaviors include but are not limited to showing respect, following instructions, participating in learning, abiding by school policies and classroom procedures. Failure to demonstrate these expected behaviors daily will trigger consequences according to the classroom, school, and district discipline police. THERE WILL BE NO WARNINGS ISSUED!

Beginning and Ending Class – Scholars should be in their seats with materials ready at the start of class. Scholars should respond to the Teacher's queue by listening or engaging in warm up activity (Journal). Scholars should respond to the Teachers queue to end class by saving files, putting up materials, turning in papers, getting the homework assignment, logging off the computer, and being ready to leave class when the bell rings. Scholars should use all allotted class time for learning by being engaged in listening, responding appropriately, or participating in assignments. Beginning and ending class in an efficient manner will allow for class time to be used appropriately.

Bathroom Breaks – Bathroom breaks should be taken during passing period. Scholars should get permission from the teacher and sign out before leaving the classroom for a bathroom break. If you are anywhere else other then the restroom or getting water disciplinary actions will be taken.

Educational Use of Equipment – Computer systems are provided for use by faculty and Scholars for educational purposes only. Games played on the computer for entertainment are not allowed unless specific permission is given. Internet surfing not directly associated with classroom assignments is not allowed. These limitations are in place to make better use of the district bandwidth and to provide a better educational learning environment for students.

Disks, Memory Drives, Cell Phones and CD’s – Scholars may bring disks, USB memory drives, and/or CD’s to school for use in computer systems with teacher approval. Any memory device/disk is not considered private and is subject to examination, search, and must be turned over to teacher upon request. Any memory device/disk inspected and found to have inappropriate material / unauthorized material is subject to confiscation and will result in demerits and other disciplinary action. Also, Scholars may not download software onto district computer systems without specific permission.

NO SCHOLAR MAY CREATE OR USE AN OUTSIDE/PRIVATE NETWORK AT ANY TIME WHILE IN SCHOOL. SCHOLARS CAUGHT CREATING A WIFI OR ACCESS POINT WITH CELLPHONES OR OTHER UNAUTHORIZED DEVICE WILL HAVE THAT DEVICE IMMEDIATELY CONFISCATED AND WILL BE SUBJECT TO ADDITIONAL DISCIPLINARY ACTION. NO UNAUTHORIZED DEVICE WILL BE CONNECTED TO THE SCHOOL NETWORK WITHOUT SPECIFIC PERMISSION. NO UNAUTHORIZED, ILLEGAL, OR INAPPROPRIATE CONTENT MAY BE ACCESSED PRIVATELY ON PERSONAL TECHNOLOGY EQUIPMENT WHILE ON SCHOOL PROPERTY.


Operating System Configuration – Adding or deleting icons to the desktop is prohibited. Changing the background on the monitor or screen saver is prohibited. Scholars should not make any changes to the configuration of the district computer systems.

No Cheating – Scholars should not share files in the attempt to cheat on assignments. File sharing should only be done if the class assignment directs a Scholars to do so. Scholars should not print multiple copies of a file in an attempt to allow others to cheat from their original works. Scholars should show integrity by not cheating or by creating an environment where others may cheat. Cheating may cause the Scholar(s) loss of some or the entire grade.

Listening – Scholars should listen while the teacher is giving directions or giving information. Scholars should attend to the directions and follow them the first time they are given. This classroom environment thrives on the importance of teamwork, leadership, integrity, honesty, work habits, and organizational skills. The Scholar is expected to use teamwork to solve problems and questions first before asking for assistance

Appropriate Language – Scholars should use appropriate language when conversing with the teacher and when conversing with other students. Slander, cursing, racial remarks, and remarks made that are demeaning to specific groups of people are inappropriate and should not be used. Scholars should demonstrate respect for the teacher, themselves, and for others in their speech and in their tone.

NO FOOD, DRINKS, GUM OR CANDY – No food or drinks are allowed in the classroom unless otherwise approved by the teacher.

Absent or Makeup Work – It is the responsibility of the Scholar to make arrangements with the teacher for work missed when absent due to illness, doctor’s appointments, field trips, school sponsored event, etc.

Radio’s, Music Players, Games, Head Phones, Cell Phones, and other electronic devices – Headphones should not be worn during class unless directed by the teacher for a specific assignment or individual work. The school policy on the use of cell phones will be strictly enforced. Personal music CD’s and DVD’s should not be brought to class and played in the CD/DVD ROM drives. These devices should be kept out of sight and not be used in the classroom. Devices that are confiscated will be taken to the Principal’s office.

Criminal Activity – Hacking and sabotage are criminal activities covered by federal and state laws. Damage to data, equipment, or functionality of software programs and operating systems are severe offenses that may be subject to substantial fines and penalties under law. Removal of hardware, equipment, software and supplies, and other properties from the classroom are considered theft. Browsing unauthorized files or district content through the school provided network is a federal crime. Scholars should not try to guess passwords to hack into teacher accounts or the accounts of others. Scholars should only access areas they are authorized to use and have been given rights to access. Scholars should use the network for academic purposes only. Network resources should not be wasted including bandwidth and printer usage. All FERPA, state and local access restrictions on content will be strictly adhered too.

CSED Week 2018 Padlet

Made with Padlet