Computer Science

The Computer Science program at Danforth offers a wide range of programming experiences from visual hands-on Scratch interfaces, Turing enabled text based windows, and sophisticated rich Java platforms using object oriented classes. With the ever growing field of technology and network based communications within our global society, understanding how computers execute code is a valuable and important skill for all students. Starting from Grade 10, students learn the fundamentals of programming by using the latest educational software from MIT and Carnegie Mellon University. In Grade 11, students begin to learn Python and Java which is a primer for project based programming covered in Grade 12. Students are fostered to design, develop and implement computer code that touch other disciplines in the school as well. This empowers students to become stronger problem solvers, develop deeper thinking and enlarge their skill set as a twenty-first learner.   

Danforth’s Computer Science offers the following exciting programming courses for grades 10, 11 and 12.  

Grade 10 ICS2O Introduction to Computer Studies (Open) Grade 11 ICS3U Introduction to Computer Science (University Preparation) Grade 12 ICS4U Computer and Information Science (University Preparation)

Course: ICS2O Introduction to Computer Studies (Open)

Description: 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. (SCRATCH, TURING)  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.  

Course: ICS3U Introduction to Computer Science (University                                      Preparation)

Description: This course is geared towards students interested in taking the upper level Computer Science Course ICS4U which will lead to learning programming languages used at the university level. Students will design software independently and as part of a team, using industry-standard programming tools and applying the software development life-cycle model. They will also write and use subprograms within computer programs.  Students will develop creative solutions for various types of problems as their understanding of the computing environment grows. They will also explore environmental and ergonomic issues, emerging research in computer science, global career trends in computer-related fields and PC hardware.

Course: ICS4U Computer and Information Science (University Preparation)

Description:    This course enables students to further develop knowledge and skills in computer science. Students will use modular design principles to create complex and fully documented programs, according to industry standards. Student teams will manage a large software development project, from planning through to project review. Students will also analyse algorithms for effectiveness. They will investigate ethical issues in computing and further explore environmental issues, emerging technologies, areas of research in computer science, and careers in the field.