Course Syllabus

Syllabus Introduction to Programming

Welcome

Welcome to Introduction to Programming! We’re so glad you’re here.

Every lesson is designed to help you grow as a thinker, problem solver, and global learner. As a Mizzou Academy global student, you will complete lessons and assignments on your own schedule, interacting with course content, participating in interactives, and completing practice activities, as well as drafting and revising assignments, preparing for quizzes and assessments, and taking exams.

To stay on track, we recommend using a pacing guide. You can find more information about pacing in the Course Resources section, along with helpful tools, technology support, and tips for online learning success.

As you begin, remember that online learning requires both independence and communication. Be curious, stay organized, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your teacher if you need support.

We’re excited to learn with you, and we’re happy you’re part of our Mizzou Academy community! 

Pacing

This course can be completed in as few as six weeks or take up to 6 months (180 calendar days). The six weeks are counted from the date of the first lesson submission and not the date of enrollment.

This course is asynchronous, meaning you can complete lessons and assignments at your own pace.

Most students spend approximately 10 hours per lesson interacting with course content, participating in interactive activities, and completing practice exercises, as well as drafting and revising assignments, preparing for quizzes and assessments, and taking exams. Your time may vary depending on your goals and learning style. 

We encourage you to work at a consistent pace, allowing time to absorb new ideas, build skills, and reflect on what you’ve learned. Use a pacing guide to plan ahead, stay organized, and finish strong. 

Course Description

This course introduces the fundamental concepts of procedural programming. Topics include data types, control structures, functions, arrays, files, and the mechanics of running, testing, and debugging. Python is used as the programming language.

Course Essential Questions

  • Where do we see the concepts of programming in everyday life?
  • What is Computer Science?
  • How has programming changed over the years?

Course Overview

Introduction to Programming

Lesson

Objectives

Quiz

Assignment

1: Intro to Computers

1.1 Create a timeline of the history of the computer.

1.2 Describe how hardware and software components are utilized by computers.

1.3 Explain how digital inequality affects the global community.

10 MCQ

N/A

2: Data and Analysis

2.1 Discuss the relationship between data and users.

2.2 Compare ways in which software developers protect devices and information from unauthorized access.

2.3 Describe laws and regulations that impact the development and use of software.

10 MCQ

L2 Big Data Assignment

3: Software Engineering

3.1 Explain the importance of IPO to program design.

3.2 Discuss the importance of testing and documentation.

10 MCQ

N/A

4: Algorithms and Programming Languages

4.1 Explain how algorithms are used to sort, organize, and manipulate data.

4.2 Identify how programming languages are similar and different.

10 MCQ

L4 Create an Algorithm Assignment

5: Principles of Programming (Intro to Python)

5.1 Identify and compare features of various programming languages that make them useful for solving problems and developing systems.

10 MCQ

N/A

Midterm Exam - 2 Parts

Part 1: Writing Prompt

Part 2: Objective Questions - 50 MCQ

6: Getting Started with Python

6.1 Identify the main uses of Python.

6.2 Install and use Python and its integrated development environment (IDE)

10 MCQ

N/A

7: String Variables in Python

7.1 Use variables in programs

7.2 Identify the keywords used in Python

7.3 Name variables using best practices

7.4 Display text using string variables

10 MCQ

L7 User Input Assignment

8: Numbers, Lists, and Booleen Expressions

8.1 Use number variables to calculate math problems.

8.2 Use list variables to store groupings of items.

8.3 Use boolean expressions to determine true and false.

10 MCQ

N/A

9: Loops

9.1 Create and use loops in Python.

9.2 Understand when to use for and while loops in Python.

9.3 Create nested loops when necessary.

9.4 Recognize an infinite loop and how to program the loop so the infinite loop doesn’t occur.

10 MCQ

L9 Loops and Lists Assignment

10: Conditional Statements and Functions

10.1 Use conditional statements to provide choices in the program for different objectives.

10.2 Use functions to increase the options available in the program.

10.3 Learn how to create basic graphical programs.

3 MCQ

11 Matching

N/A

Final Exam - 2 Parts

Part 1: Programming Assignment

Part 2: Objective Questions - 50 MCQ

 

Grades

Your final grade will be based on the number of points you earn on submitted work and exams. The available points are distributed as follows:

Source Available Points
Lesson Assignments 80
Lesson Quizzes 106
Midterm Exam 130
Final Exam 130
Total 446

 

Textbook & Technology Requirements

To fully participate, make sure you have:

  • A computer that meets our Mizzou Academy technology requirements
  • A microphone and webcam for recording audio and video assignments
  • Any other required textbooks or materials for the course

Materials

In Module 6, you will have access to the links and instructions to help you install Python on your device.  You do not need access to the programming language until after the Midterm Exam.  Python is free.

Technology

The most up-to-date requirements can be found here: 

Additional requirements for the course are below: 

  • audio and video recording capabilities (e.g., smartphone, camera)

If you ever have trouble accessing course materials or recording tools, reach out to your teacher for support. We are here to help!

Accessibility

If you anticipate barriers related to the format or requirements of this course, please let Mizzou Academy know as soon as possible. If disability-related accommodations are necessary (for example, a scribe, reader, extended time on exams, captioning), please contact Mizzou Academy.

Canvas Technical Support

Canvas will be used as the primary platform for accessing course materials and assignments for this class.