Curriculum Detail

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Computer Science

Department Overview
The computer science department educates students to be successful, ethical, and effective problem-solvers who are prepared to tackle complex 21st century challenges facing the world.

Lower School
The lower school computer science program provides a solid foundation for students by teaching computing concepts including computational thinking, learning the proper foundations of keyboarding, and understanding the basics of digital citizenship. Programming is introduced through applications, web-based programs, and robotics.

Middle School
Middle school students continue to explore computational thinking practices and digital citizenship concepts while refining their keyboarding skills. Programming is introduced through applications, web-based programs, and robotics.

Upper School
The Upper School Computer Science curriculum provides students with active, hands-on learning experiences that teach logical reasoning, critical thinking and problem solving. The course offerings provide our students with essential 21st century skills to prepare them to be effective collaborators and innovators while building their own digital portfolio.

Criteria and Selection for AP Courses
  • Students must have demonstrated high and consistent levels of achievement in each of the prerequisites.
  • Final selection into an AP course is subject to review by the AP teacher, with appeals made to the Department Chair.

  • Computer Science 5

    Grade 5 | Full Year
    Fifth Grade Computer Science focuses on writing algorithms and understanding sequences in various programming languages including advanced block, HTML, and Python. Students will also use robotics to connect their coding skills from basic design to application. Using prior knowledge of digital citizenship, students explore digital scenarios, discuss online safety and account security, and cyber-bullying. Basic computing skills are reinforced throughout the year, and students continue honing their keyboarding skills.

  • Computer Science 6

    Grade 6 | Full Year
    Sixth Grade Computer Science students develop an advanced understanding of writing programs, combining sequences, and debugging using programming languages such as HTML, Python, and JavaScript. Students will build and design algorithms in multiple languages to cater to specific robotic tasks. At the same time, students will increase their knowledge of digital citizenship, as they begin to understand the scope of their online presence, both globally and locally.

  • Computer Science 7

    Grade 7 | Full Year
    Seventh Grade Computer Science is where engineering, design, programming, and the physical world collide. Held in the Maker Space, this class is dedicated to real-world, project-based learning designed to teach problem solving skills through an engineering and design-thinking approach. During the course, students will learn computer aided design (CAD), Photoshop, and Illustrator. These systems will integrate with hand tools and automated equipment in order to build and test their designs. Additionally, micro-controller programming skills learned in previous computer science courses will be reinforced and expanded upon.

  • CS 8: Programming

    Grade 8 | Full Year
    Computer Science 8: Programming introduces students to core programming concepts and computational thinking through hands-on, real-world applications. Students learn the fundamentals of programming, including variables, arithmetic operations, logical thinking, and basic algorithms.

    The course also explores drone programming, where students design and execute missions using programmable drones. Students apply algorithmic thinking, problem-solving, and sequencing to control autonomous and user-directed drone behavior. Emphasis is placed on understanding how software interacts with hardware, testing solutions, and refining programs through experimentation, iteration, and collaboration.

  • AP Computer Science Principles

    Grades 10-12 | Full Year
    AP Computer Science Principles introduces students to the central ideas of computer science, instilling the ideas and practices of computational thinking and inviting students to understand how computing changes the world. The course promotes deep learning of computational content, develops computational thinking skills, and engages students in the creative aspects of the field. Topics covered include fundamentals of computing, problem solving, working with data, understanding the Internet, cybersecurity, and programming. Students also work collaboratively on projects throughout the year and complete their digital portfolio with two performance tasks. Prerequisite: Algebra I  Limitations: Department Chair approval required

  • CS 8: Engineering

    Grade 8 | Full Year
    Computer Science 8: Engineering explores computer science through the lens of robotics. Students will begin by developing skills in CAD design, mechanical systems, electronics, and programming through a series of hands-on projects. These projects build foundational skills that culminate in the design and construction of robots to achieve specific objectives.

    In the second semester, students will apply their knowledge by building robots from scratch using the makerspace's advanced tools. Teams will compete in organized events, and students will use performance feedback to refine their designs through multiple iterations. Participation in at least two Saturday competitions is required. This course is ideal for students eager to push the boundaries of creativity and technology.

  • AP Computer Science A

    Grades 10-12 | Full Year
    This course is intended for students with a high interest in programming. The course emphasizes an object-oriented programming with a concentration on problem solving and algorithm development. The course is the equivalent of a first-semester college-level course in computer science. It includes advanced Java programming methodology, interfaces and polymorphism, inheritance and composition, data structures and the study of algorithms. It also includes the study of data structures, design, and abstraction. Students are prepared to sit for the AP Exam. Prerequisite: Algebra I  Limitations: Department Chair approval required

Faculty

  • Photo of Kevin Fine
    Kevin Fine
    Engineering; MS/US Science Teacher
    214-346-8174
    Bio
  • Photo of Ivann Grande
    Ivann Grande
    Computer Science Teacher
    214-346-8162
    Texas Wesleyan University - Bachelor of Science
    Bio
  • Photo of Stewart Mayer
    Stewart Mayer
    Makerspace Director
    214-346-8364
    Southern Methodist University - B.A.
  • Photo of Kurt Tholking
    Kurt Tholking
    Computer Science Department Chair
    214-346-8194
    Miami University - B.S.
    Bio

St. Mark’s School of Texas

10600 Preston Road
Dallas, Texas 75230
214-346-8000

About Us

St. Mark’s School of Texas is a private, nonsectarian college-preparatory boys’ day school for students in grades 1 through 12, located in Dallas, Texas. St. Mark’s aims to prepare young men to assume leadership and responsibility in a competitive and changing world.

St. Mark’s does not discriminate in the administration of its admission and education policies on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin.