Computer Science & Design

0.33 Credit (Trimester course)  

Grade 9 

In this course, students will be introduced to five major topics in Computer Science: sequencing, event handling, iteration, variables, and selection. Through a blend of hands-on activities, students will engage with various software and hardware tools to explore these essential concepts. 

Throughout the course, students will have the opportunity to create apps, design games, and build robots, all while applying their understanding of computer science principles. This engaging approach aims to foster creativity and encourage students to learn more in the field of computer science. 

0.5 Credit  

Grades 10, 11, 12 

Note: Students must also take Foundations of 3D Design for one semester 

Students will engage in hands-on design practices, develop creative thinking strategies, and devise solutions to visual communication design challenges. This course familiarizes students with visual principles, essential software, and techniques that serve the basic designer needs. Students will develop applied creative projects and acquire technical skills to become adept at essential software, design principles and practices for future career applications. This will allow students to develop fluency in the principles of visual language to form a basis of aesthetic judgment and develop methods of analysis and inquiry for creative thinking. Students' in-studio practice combines with class critiques of work, 3D software tutorials, and supporting lectures.  

0.5 Credit  

Grades 10, 11, 12 

Note: Students must also take Digital Media for one semester 

This semester course serves as a foundation in three-dimensional visual design. It combines the study of the basic elements, principles, and practices of form and design in three dimensions with a series of hands-on problem-solving projects. Innovation is more than using technology, it is changing students' ways of thinking to empower them to think critically and solve real-world problems. Every unit includes rigorous and hands-on activities centered around Gwynedd's Innovation Technology including but not limited to VR Goggles, 3D Printing - Resin and Filament, and Beam Studio Flux Laser Cutting. Collaboration, team building, social-emotional learning, perseverance, and critical thinking are themes that run throughout the project-based learning. The course emphasizes technical skills while simultaneously developing the iterative process of conceptual development. 

0.5 Credit  

Grades 10, 11, 12 

Note: Students must also enroll in Audio Engineering 

Broadcast & Media Production offers hands-on studio and field experience for students interested in video production, journalism, and sound engineering. Students will learn to engage in the creative process of storytelling through video by producing documentaries, news broadcasts, educational videos, vlogs and podcasts. This class will give students the opportunity to take part in each stage of the film making process including shooting aesthetic video, script writing and interview skills, speaking on camera, and post-production techniques such as video and audio editing. Student projects will be featured at school and community events and in GMA TV, Gwynedd's newscast. Broadcast & Media Production students will learn how to edit video and audio together into a compelling story using software and computers provided in the Mac Lab. 

0.5 Credit 

Grades 10, 11, 12 

Note: Students must also enroll in Broadcast and Media Production 

Audio Engineering offers students a chance to engage in every aspect of the process of recording music. Students will learn about the properties of sound, types of microphones and microphone placement, how to mic different instruments and how to record and edit audio using a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) such as GarageBand or Soundtrap. Critical music listening skills will also be emphasized. Projects include but are not limited to recording songs played by live instruments and vocalists, creating beats/samples and adding digital effects to recorded audio. After completing this course, students will have the knowledge and skills necessary to professionally record, edit and produce music. 

1 Credit  

Grades 10, 11, 12 

Prerequisites:  93 or higher in Algebra 1 

AP Computer Science Principles introduces students to the foundational concepts of computer science and encourages them to explore the impact of computing and technology on the world. This course emphasizes creative problem-solving and real-world applications. 

Students will delve into the creative aspects of programming, understand abstractions and algorithms, analyze large data sets, explore the Internet, address cybersecurity concerns, and evaluate the societal impacts of computing. The curriculum is designed to be rigorous and enriching, aiming to broaden participation in the field of computer science. The curriculum aligns with the Big Ideas outlined in the AP Course and Exam Description. 

Note: AP students are required to take the AP exam, and families will be responsible for any associated fees. 

1 Credit  

Grades 11, 12 

Prerequisites: 93 or higher in Algebra 1 

Students will explore fundamental concepts and tools of computer science through a focused study of a subset of the Java programming language. No prior knowledge of computer science is required. Throughout the course, students will engage in hands-on activities to design, write, and test computer programs aimed at solving problems and accomplishing tasks. 

In addition to creating numerous programs over the year, students will undertake larger programming labs during the second semester. The curriculum aligns with the ten units outlined in the AP Course and Exam Description. 

Note: AP students are required to take the AP exam, and families will be responsible for any associated fees.