Introduction to Computer Programming (Python)

Course Catalog ID:

3299

Subject Categories:

Academic Elective, Computer Programming and Applications

Description

Thinking about learning to code? This is a great first course for students who have had little or no prior experience with computer programming. This foundational course introduces computer programming through the language of Python, one of the most widely-used programming languages today. Students will learn the logic of programming step-by-step, including pseudocode, algorithms, data types, commenting, variables, control structures, loops, functions, lists, objects, and other fundamental programming building blocks. Each week in class, students will walk through a coding exercise together. They will be assigned readings and brief reinforcement activities in our online textbook. Students are also assigned a coding challenge each week, alternating between a practice assignment and a graded coding project. Students will close the year by spending time with Turtle, a drawing tool that allows them to put all these new skills together dynamically in a fun way.

Prerequisites

Grade Levels*:

8, 9, 10, 11, 12

* Enrollment restricted based on Date of Birth and Grad Year (whichever is more limiting). Enrollment outside these levels requires written concurrence from TPS Support.

Notes and Conditions

Alternative Course: Students with considerable prior programming experience or interest are encouraged to consider TPS Computer Programming in Java instead of this introductory course.

“From helping me think logically to exciting my creativity, this Introductory Python course has given me the skill of coding that I never had before. Every class session was very structured and organized, and so was the entire syllabus. The teacher is fun, witty, and helpful, and she made every class engaging. The live group programs that we coded in class boosted my confidence in the homework, which required problem-solving and creativity. My introductory knowledge of Python has already helped me understand other coding languages, so I know that the solid foundation that this class gave me will continue to help me in my future STEM education and career. Thank you, TPS, for this wonderful class!”

Natalie H

Student

“This course was excellent, by far my favorite class of the year. The teacher was nothing but helpful, and being in class was always interactive. I never felt embarrassed if I had questions, and she always seemed to have the correct answers. In addition, the textbook was highly informative, allowing for easy review and simple research. I highly recommend this class to anyone who wants to learn Python programming and loves great teachers who genuinely care about their teaching.”

Graham B

Student

“Although computer science can be a difficult concept for some, the teacher boils everything down to easy-to-understand lessons and provides very helpful examples and lots of in-class practice, making programming easy for anybody to understand, regardless of prior knowledge or tech skills.”

Caleb N

Student

“I would 100% recommend this course for those wanting to get into programming. The teaching is comprehensive and engaging, and it kept me interested in class even when other methods would make it seem boring. The lack of exams and tests honestly helped me retain the information better without having to cram for a test and then forget the information right after. Instead the focus was on learning the necessary materials to create a useful, fun program.”

Sarah L

Student

“This is such an amazing course, and helped me finally fulfil my dreams of learning to code! The teacher is so kind, and this course has inspired me to take my coding skills further and probably pursue a college major in computer science.”

Hadashah D

Student

“As a beginner in computer programming, I thought this class was wonderful! The teacher was always cheerful and happy to help whenever I needed it (even when the mistake was simple). She always wrote back to my emails. When we did coding together in class she would always make sure that everyone in class was caught up and helped those who were struggling. I highly recommend this class to anyone who wants to start programming and prefers a teacher who is ready to help!”

Izzie P

Student

“This is an amazing course with amazing teachers. I would recommend this class to anyone who wants to learn about computer programming but doesn’t know where to start. I would also recommend it to anybody who has some background with computer programming but wants to start learning Python. To anyone taking this class: You made a good choice!”

Ben C

Student

“This was an awesome course! I learned many things about computers as well as the foundations of programming. If you want to program you must take this course!”

Yeshuwa V

Student

“I believe that this course is a great way to start someone on their adventure into programming. The different programming challenges throughout the course will puzzle the student into using the information learned in new and inventive ways. TPS’s Introduction to Computer Programming is a fascinating course.”

Michael C

Student