K-5 Computer Science
Course Introduction
Core Standards of the Course
Kindergarten
Computing Systems (CS):
People interact with a wide variety of computing devices that collect, store, analyze, and act upon information in ways that can affect human capabilities, both positively and negatively. The physical components (hardware) and instructions (software) that make up a computing system communicate and process information in digital form. An understanding of hardware and software is useful when troubleshooting a computing system that does not work as intended.
Standard K.CS.1
Select computing devices that perform a variety of tasks accurately and quickly based on user needs and preferences. (Practice 1: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture)
Network and the Internet (NI):
Computing devices typically do not operate in isolation. Networks connect computing devices to share information and resources and are an increasingly integral part of computing. Networks and communication systems provide greater connectivity in the computing world by providing fast, secure communication and facilitating innovation.
Standard K.NI.1
Model and describe how people connect to other people and information through a network. (Practice 4: Developing and Using Abstractions)
Standard K.NI.2
Create patterns to communicate a message. (Practice 4: Developing and Using Abstractions)
Data and Analysis (DA):
Computing systems exist to process data. The amount of digital data generated in the world is rapidly expanding, and the need to process data effectively is increasingly important. Data is collected and stored so it can be analyzed to better understand the world and make more accurate predictions.
Standard K.DA.1
Identify and describe patterns in data visualizations, such as charts or graphs, to make predictions (Practice 4: Developing and Using Abstractions)
Algorithms and Programming (AP):
An algorithm is a sequence of steps designed to accomplish a specific task. Algorithms are translated into programs, or code, to provide instructions for computing devices. Algorithms and programming control all computing systems, empowering people to communicate with the world in new ways and solve compelling problems. The development process to create meaningful and efficient programs involves choosing which information to use and how to process and store it, breaking apart large problems into smaller ones, recombining existing solutions, and analyzing different solutions.
Standard K.AP.1
Model processes by creating and following algorithms to complete tasks. (Practice 3: Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems and Practice 4: Developing and Using Abstractions)
Computational Thinking (CT):
Computational thinking (CT) is a problem-solving process that includes several characteristics, such as logically ordering and analyzing data and creating solutions using a series of ordered steps (or algorithms), and dispositions, such as the ability to confidently deal with complexity and open-ended problems. CT is essential to the development of computer applications, but it can also be used to support problem-solving across all disciplines, including math, science, and the humanities. Students who learn CT across the curriculum can begin to see a relationship between subjects as well as between school and life outside of the classroom.7
Standard K.CT.1
Decompose problems into smaller manageable parts to better understand them. (Practice 3: Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems)
1st Grade
Computing Systems (CS):
People interact with a wide variety of computing devices that collect, store, analyze, and act upon information in ways that can affect human capabilities, both positively and negatively. The physical components (hardware) and instructions (software) that make up a computing system communicate and process information in digital form. An understanding of hardware and software is useful when troubleshooting a computing system that does not work as intended.
Standard 1.CS.1
Operate a variety of computing devices that perform tasks accurately and quickly based on user needs and preferences. (Practice 1: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture)
Standard 1.CS.2
Explore the functions of common hardware and software components of computing systems. (Practice 6: Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts and Practice 7: Communicating About Computing)
Data and Analysis (DA):
Computing systems exist to process data. The amount of digital data generated in the world is rapidly expanding, and the need to process data effectively is increasingly important. Data is collected and stored so it can be analyzed to better understand the world and make more accurate predictions.
Standard 1.DA.1
Collect and present data in various visual formats. (Practice 4: Developing and Using Abstractions and Practice 7: Communicating About Computing)
Standard 1.DA.2
Identify and describe patterns in data visualizations (unplugged or digital), such as charts or graphs, to make predictions. (Practice 4: Developing and Using Abstractions)
Algorithms and Programming (AP):
An algorithm is a sequence of steps designed to accomplish a specific task. Algorithms are translated into programs, or code, to provide instructions for computing devices. Algorithms and programming control all computing systems, empowering people to communicate with the world in new ways and solve compelling problems. The development process to create meaningful and efficient programs involves choosing which information to use and how to process and store it, breaking apart large problems into smaller ones, recombining existing solutions, and analyzing different solutions.
Standard 1.AP.1
Demonstrate understanding of the way programs store and manipulate data as variables, such as numbers, words, colors, and images. (Practice 4: Developing and Using Abstractions)
Standard 1.AP.2
Break down (deconstruct) algorithms and list the steps needed to solve a problem into a sequence of tasks and sub-tasks. (Practice 3: Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems)
Standard 1.AP.3
Create programs with sequences (steps) of commands and simple loops (repeated patterns), to express ideas or address a problem. (Practice 5: Creating Computational Artifacts)
Impacts of Computing (IC):
Computing affects many aspects of the world in both positive and negative ways at local, national, and global levels. Individuals and communities influence computing through their behaviors and cultural and social interactions, and in turn, computing influences new cultural practices. An informed and responsible person should understand the social implications of the digital world, including equity and access to computing.
Standard 1.IC.1
Develop and demonstrate the ability to work respectfully and responsibly with others whether communicating face-to-face or digitally. (Practice 2: Collaborating Around Computing)
Computational Thinking (CT):
Computational thinking (CT) is a problem-solving process that includes several characteristics, such as logically ordering and analyzing data and creating solutions using a series of ordered steps (or algorithms), and dispositions, such as the ability to confidently deal with complexity and open-ended problems. CT is essential to the development of computer applications, but it can also be used to support problem-solving across all disciplines, including math, science, and the humanities. Students who learn CT across the curriculum can begin to see a relationship between subjects as well as between school and life outside of the classroom.8
Standard 1.CT.1
Determine the steps needed to solve a problem and develop a sequence of instructions. (Practice 3: Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems)
Standard 1.CT.2
Recognize similarities between new problems and problems that have been solved in the past. (Practice 3: Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems)
2nd Grade
Computing Systems (CS):
People interact with a wide variety of computing devices that collect, store, analyze, and act upon information in ways that can affect human capabilities, both positively and negatively. The physical components (hardware) and instructions (software) that make up a computing system communicate and process information in digital form. An understanding of hardware and software is useful when troubleshooting a computing system that does not work as intended.
Standard 2.CS.1
Describe and solve basic hardware and software problems. (Practice 7: Communicating About Computing)
Network and the Internet (NI):
Computing devices typically do not operate in isolation. Networks connect computing devices to share information and resources and are an increasingly integral part of computing. Networks and communication systems provide greater connectivity in the computing world by providing fast, secure communication and facilitating innovation.
Standard 2.NI.1
Explain what a password or pass phrase is, why it is used, and be able to create a secure password. (Practice 7: Communicating About Computing)
Data and Analysis (DA):
Computing systems exist to process data. The amount of digital data generated in the world is rapidly expanding, and the need to process data effectively is increasingly important. Data is collected and stored so it can be analyzed to better understand the world and make more accurate predictions.
Standard 2.DA.1
Demonstrate how to store, copy, search, retrieve, modify and delete information using a computing device, and define the information stored as data. (Practice 4: Developing and Using Abstractions)
Standard 2.DA.2
Collect and present data in various visual formats. (Practice 4: Developing and Using Abstractions and Practice 7: Communicating About Computing)
Standard 2.DA.3
Identify and describe patterns in data visualizations to make predictions. (Practice 4: Developing and Using Abstractions)
Algorithms and Programming (AP):
An algorithm is a sequence of steps designed to accomplish a specific task. Algorithms are translated into programs, or code, to provide instructions for computing devices. Algorithms and programming control all computing systems, empowering people to communicate with the world in new ways and solve compelling problems. The development process to create meaningful and efficient programs involves choosing which information to use and how to process and store it, breaking apart large problems into smaller ones, recombining existing solutions, and analyzing different solutions.
Standard 2.AP.1
Deconstruct the steps needed to solve a task into a sequence of instructions. (Practice 3: Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems)
Standard 2.AP.2
Collaboratively develop plans that describe a program's sequence of events, goals, and expected outcomes. (Practice 5: Creating Computational Artifacts and Practice 7: Communicating About Computing)
Standard 2.AP.3
Properly credit others when using their ideas andcreations while developing programs. (Practice 7: Communicating About Computing)
Standard 2.AP.4
Debug and solve simple problems within an algorithm or program that includes sequences and simple loops. (Practice 6: Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts)
Standard 2.AP.5
Summarize the steps taken and choices made during the iterative process of program development. (Practice 7: Communicating About Computing)
Impacts of Computing (IC):
Computing affects many aspects of the world in both positive and negative ways at local, national, and global levels. Individuals and communities influence computing through their behaviors and cultural and social interactions, and in turn, computing influences new cultural practices. An informed and responsible person should understand the social implications of the digital world, including equity and access to computing.
Standard 2.IC.1
Describe how technology has impacted society over time. (Practice 3: Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems)
Standard 2.IC.2
Describe rationales for keeping login information private, and for logging off devices appropriately. (Practice 3: Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems)
3rd Grade
Computing Systems (CS):
People interact with a wide variety of computing devices that collect, store, analyze, and act upon information in ways that can affect human capabilities, both positively and negatively. The physical components (hardware) and instructions (software) that make up a computing system communicate and process information in digital form. An understanding of hardware and software is useful when troubleshooting a computing system that does not work as intended.
Standard 3.CS.1
Describe and model how computing devices connect to other components to extend their capabilities and form a system. (Practice 7: Communicating About Computing)
Network and the Internet (NI):
Computing devices typically do not operate in isolation. Networks connect computing devices to share information and resources and are an increasingly integral part of computing. Networks and communication systems provide greater connectivity in the computing world by providing fast, secure communication and facilitating innovation.
Standard 3.NI.1
Describe physical and digital security measures for protecting personal information. (Practice 3: Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems)
Standard 3.NI.2
Develop personal patterns of behavior to protect information from unauthorized access. (Practice 4: Developing and Using Abstractions)
Data and Analysis (DA):
Computing systems exist to process data. The amount of digital data generated in the world is rapidly expanding, and the need to process data effectively is increasingly important. Data is collected and stored so it can be analyzed to better understand the world and make more accurate predictions.
Standard 3.DA.1
Organize and present collected data visually to highlight relationships and support a claim. (Practice 7: Communicating About Computing)
Standard 3.DA.2
Use data to communicate ideas, highlightrelationships, and predict outcomes. (P7.1)
Algorithms and Programming (AP):
An algorithm is a sequence of steps designed to accomplish a specific task. Algorithms are translated into programs, or code, to provide instructions for computing devices. Algorithms and programming control all computing systems, empowering people to communicate with the world in new ways and solve compelling problems. The development process to create meaningful and efficient programs involves choosing which information to use and how to process and store it, breaking apart large problems into smaller ones, recombining existing solutions, and analyzing different solutions.
Standard 3.AP.1
Create programs that include events, sequences, loops, and simple conditionals to express ideas or address a problem. (Practice 5: Creating Computational Artifacts)
Standard 3.AP.2
Modify a previously created program that uses variables to store and modify data. (Practice 5: Creating Computational Artifacts)
Standard 3.AP.3
Test and debug a program or algorithm to ensure it accomplishes the intended task. (Practice 6: Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts)
Standard 3.AP.4
Perform different roles when collaborating with peers during the design, implementation, and review stages of program development. (Practice 2: Collaborating Around Computing)
Standard 3.AP.5
Use an iterative design process to plan and develop a program by considering the perspectives and preferences of others. (Practice 1: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture and Practice 5: Creating Computational Artifacts)
Standard 3.AP.6
Create programs by incorporating smaller portions of existing programs to develop something new or add more advanced features. (Practice 4: Developing and Using Abstractions and Practice 5: Creating Computational Artifacts)
Impacts of Computing (IC):
Computing affects many aspects of the world in both positive and negative ways at local, national, and global levels. Individuals and communities influence computing through their behaviors and cultural and social interactions, and in turn, computing influences new cultural practices. An informed and responsible person should understand the social implications of the digital world, including equity and access to computing.
Standard 3.IC.1
Evaluate how computing technologies havechanged the world, and express how those technologies influence, and are influenced by, cultural practices. (Practice 3: Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems)
Standard 3.IC.2
Describe reasons creators might limit the use of their work. (Practice 7: Communicating About Computing)
Computational Thinking (CT):
Computational thinking (CT) is a problem-solving process that includes several characteristics, such as logically ordering and analyzing data and creating solutions using a series of ordered steps (or algorithms), and dispositions, such as the ability to confidently deal with complexity and open-ended problems. CT is essential to the development of computer applications, but it can also be used to support problem-solving across all disciplines, including math, science, and the humanities. Students who learn CT across the curriculum can begin to see a relationship between subjects as well as between school and life outside of the classroom.9
Standard 3.CT.1
Decompose problems into smaller manageable tasks which may themselves be decomposed. (Practice 3: Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems)
Standard 3.CT.2
Recognize common patterns between problems and recurring patterns within problems. (Practice 3: Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems)
4th Grade
Computing Systems (CS):
People interact with a wide variety of computing devices that collect, store, analyze, and act upon information in ways that can affect human capabilities, both positively and negatively. The physical components (hardware) and instructions (software) that make up a computing system communicate and process information in digital form. An understanding of hardware and software is useful when troubleshooting a computing system that does not work as intended.
Standard 4.CS.1
Demonstrate how computer hardware and software work together as a system to accomplish tasks. (Practice 4: Developing and Using Abstractions)
Network and the Internet (NI):
Computing devices typically do not operate in isolation. Networks connect computing devices to share information and resources and are an increasingly integral part of computing. Networks and communication systems provide greater connectivity in the computing world by providing fast, secure communication and facilitating innovation.
Standard 4.NI.1
Model how information is broken down into smaller pieces called packets and transmitted through multiple devices over physical or wireless paths and reassembled at the destination. (Practice 4: Developing and Using Abstractions)
Data and Analysis (DA):
Computing systems exist to process data. The amount of digital data generated in the world is rapidly expanding, and the need to process data effectively is increasingly important. Data is collected and stored so it can be analyzed to better understand the world and make more accurate predictions.
Standard 4.DA.1
Select, organize, and categorize data and represent that data visually to provide clarity or support a claim. (Practice 7: Communicating About Computing)
Standard 4.DA.2
Use data to highlight and propose relationships, predict outcomes, or communicate ideas. (Practice 7: Communicating About Computing)
Algorithms and Programming (AP):
An algorithm is a sequence of steps designed to accomplish a specific task. Algorithms are translated into programs, or code, to provide instructions for computing devices. Algorithms and programming control all computing systems, empowering people to communicate with the world in new ways and solve compelling problems. The development process to create meaningful and efficient programs involves choosing which information to use and how to process and store it, breaking apart large problems into smaller ones, recombining existing solutions, and analyzing different solutions.
Standard 4.AP.1
Compare and refine multiple algorithms for the same task, using computer and non-computer languages, and determine which is the most appropriate. (Practice 3: Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems and Practice 6: Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts)
Standard 4.AP.2
Create programs that include events, loops, and conditionals. (Practice 5: Creating Computational Artifacts)
Standard 4.AP.3
Decompose problems into smaller, manageable tasks which may be then be broken down further. Practice 3: Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems)
Standard 4.AP.4
Test and debug a program or algorithm to ensure it accomplishes the intended task. (Practice 6: Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts)
Impacts of Computing (IC):
Computing affects many aspects of the world in both positive and negative ways at local, national, and global levels. Individuals and communities influence computing through their behaviors and cultural and social interactions, and in turn, computing influences new cultural practices. An informed and responsible person should understand the social implications of the digital world, including equity and access to computing.
Standard 4.IC.1
Evaluate computing technologies that have changed the world and express how those technologies influence and are influenced by cultural practices. (Practice 3: Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems)
Standard 4.IC.2
Propose ways to improve the accessibility and usability of technology products for the diverse needs and wants of users. (Practice 1: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture)
Computational Thinking (CT):
Computational thinking (CT) is a problem-solving process that includes several characteristics, such as logically ordering and analyzing data and creating solutions using a series of ordered steps (or algorithms), and dispositions, such as the ability to confidently deal with complexity and open-ended problems. CT is essential to the development of computer applications, but it can also be used to support problem-solving across all disciplines, including math, science, and the humanities. Students who learn CT across the curriculum can begin to see a relationship between subjects as well as between school and life outside of the classroom.10
Standard 4.CT.1
Determine specific aspects of patterns between or within problems that can be abstracted out to leave only the common or important elements. (Practice 3: Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems and Practice 4: Developing and Using Abstractions)
5th Grade
Computing Systems (CS):
People interact with a wide variety of computing devices that collect, store, analyze, and act upon information in ways that can affect human capabilities, both positively and negatively. The physical components (hardware) and instructions (software) that make up a computing system communicate and process information in digital form. An understanding of hardware and software is useful when troubleshooting a computing system that does not work as intended.
Standard 5.CS.1
Create potential solutions to solve hardware and software problems using common troubleshooting strategies. (Practice 4: Developing and Using Abstractions and Practice 6: Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts)
Network and the Internet (NI):
Computing devices typically do not operate in isolation. Networks connect computing devices to share information and resources and are an increasingly integral part of computing. Networks and communication systems provide greater connectivity in the computing world by providing fast, secure communication and facilitating innovation.
Standard 5.NI.1
Model how information is broken down into smaller pieces, transmitted as packets (data groups) through multiple devices over networks and the Internet, and reassembled at the destination. (Practice 4: Developing and Using Abstractions)
Data and Analysis (DA):
Computing systems exist to process data. The amount of digital data generated in the world is rapidly expanding, and the need to process data effectively is increasingly important. Data is collected and stored so it can be analyzed to better understand the world and make more accurate predictions.
Standard 5.DA.1
Explain how the amount of space required to store data differs based on the type of data and level of detail and that the utility of that data varies. (Practice 7: Communicating About Computing)
Standard 5.DA.2
Organize and share collected data visually to highlight relationships and support a claim. (Practice 7: Communicating About Computing)
Standard 5.DA.3
Prioritize, analyze and use data to communicate ideas, highlight relationships and predict outcomes. (Practice 7: Communicating About Computing)
Algorithms and Programming (AP):
An algorithm is a sequence of steps designed to accomplish a specific task. Algorithms are translated into programs, or code, to provide instructions for computing devices. Algorithms and programming control all computing systems, empowering people to communicate with the world in new ways and solve compelling problems. The development process to create meaningful and efficient programs involves choosing which information to use and how to process and store it, breaking apart large problems into smaller ones, recombining existing solutions, and analyzing different solutions.
Standard 5.AP.1
Compare and refine multiple algorithms for the same task and determine which is the most appropriate. (Practice 3: Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems and Practice 6: Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts)
Standard 5.AP.2
Decompose problems into smaller, manageable tasks which may themselves be deconstructed and analyzed. (Practice 3: Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems)
Standard 5.AP.3
Create programs by incorporating smaller portions of existing programs, to develop something new or add more advanced features. (Practice 4: Developing and Using Abstractions and Practice 5: Creating Computational Artifacts)
Standard 5.AP.4
Use an iterative process to plan and develop a program by considering the perspectives and preferences of others. (Practice 1: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture and Practice 5: Creating Computational Artifacts)
Standard 5.AP.5
Recognize and observe intellectual property rights and give appropriate attribution when creating, remixing, or combining programs. (Practice 5: Creating Computational Artifacts and Practice 7: Communicating About Computing)
Standard 5.AP.6
Describe choices made during program development using code comments, presentations, and demonstrations. (Practice 7: Communicating About Computing)
Impacts of Computing (IC):
Computing affects many aspects of the world in both positive and negative ways at local, national, and global levels. Individuals and communities influence computing through their behaviors and cultural and social interactions, and in turn, computing influences new cultural practices. An informed and responsible person should understand the social implications of the digital world, including equity and access to computing.
Standard 5.IC.1
Propose ways to improve the accessibility and usability of technology products for the diverse needs and wants of users. (Practice 1: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture)
Standard 5.IC.2
Seek and explain the impact of diverse perspectives for the purpose of improving computational artifacts. (Practice 1: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture)
Computational Thinking (CT):
Computational thinking (CT) is a problem-solving process that includes several characteristics, such as logically ordering and analyzing data and creating solutions using a series of ordered steps (or algorithms), and dispositions, such as the ability to confidently deal with complexity and open-ended problems. CT is essential to the development of computer applications, but it can also be used to support problem-solving across all disciplines, including math, science, and the humanities. Students who learn CT across the curriculum can begin to see a relationship between subjects as well as between school and life outside of the classroom.11
Standard 5.CT.1
Develop algorithms in computer programs to solve problems, including unique and repeated sub-tasks within a larger program. (Practice 3: Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems and Practice 5: Creating Computational Artifacts)
http://www.uen.org - in partnership with Utah State Board of Education (USBE) and Utah System of Higher Education (USHE). Send questions or comments to USBE Specialist - Kristina Yamada and see the K-12 Computer Science website. For general questions about Utah's Core Standards contact the Director - Jennifer Throndsen. These materials have been produced by and for the teachers of the State of Utah. Copies of these materials may be freely reproduced for teacher and classroom use. When distributing these materials, credit should be given to Utah State Board of Education. These materials may not be published, in whole or part, or in any other format, without the written permission of the Utah State Board of Education, 250 East 500 South, PO Box 144200, Salt Lake City, Utah 84114-4200.