Python Coding & Computational Thinking

Complete Python programming and computational thinking curriculum for secondary and high school students.

This course teaches the concepts behind programming before focusing on syntax. Students develop transferable computational thinking skills through pseudocode, group activities, Python coding, game-based examples, and applied projects.

6-Unit Curriculum

Unit 1 - Thinking Like a Computer
Algorithms, abstraction, debugging, data representation, and pseudocode.

Unit 2 - Getting Started with Python
Python and VS Code, variables, data types, comments, input, output, and first programs.

Unit 3 - Conditionals and Logic
Boolean logic, comparison operators, if/elif/else, compound conditions, game rules, and debugging.

Unit 4 - Loops and Iteration
For loops, while loops, game loops, nested loops, patterns, and infinite loops.

Unit 5 - Functions and Data Structures
Functions, parameters, return values, lists, dictionaries, and program organization.

Unit 6 - Files, Errors, and Game Development
File handling, exceptions, Python graphics, careers, and building an original Python game.

What’s Included

• 77 core instructional class days
• 6 complete instructional units
• Lesson presentations
• Student handouts and group activities
• Python coding activities
• Lesson quizzes
• Unit tests
• 6 capstone projects
• Midterm and final exams
• Answer keys and rubrics
• Teacher guide
• Pacing guide
• Course syllabus
• Assignment tracker
• Gradebook

Applied Capstone Projects

Students progress from computational thinking activities to increasingly sophisticated Python projects, including a paddle-and-ball game, game rules programming, procedural level generation, an RPG battle system, and an original Python game.

Flexible Classroom Use

The 77 core instructional days fit comfortably within a traditional semester with room for review, coding practice, and extensions. The curriculum can also cover most of a school year on an alternating A/B block schedule.

Python 3 and Visual Studio Code are used for coding. No specialized software beyond Python and its standard library is required.

Aligned to the CSTA K-12 Computer Science Standards, Revised 2017, Level 3A.

Ideal for Python Programming, Computer Science, Computing, Computational Thinking, Coding, Game Development, STEM, CTE, and introductory secondary/high school programming courses.