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Curriculum

Advanced Computational Modeling

Upper School

Grade 10, Grade 11, Grade 12

Science

Open to Grades 10-12

Credits: 0.5

Prerequisite: Physics and departmental approval

What makes some internet videos more popular than others? Where do gender inequities pop up in the music industry? What are the demographics of police stops in the United States? Did you know that you can explore and analyze real-world questions like these using code? In this semester-long elective, you will develop the ability to use the Python coding language to create interactive programs, simulations, and data visualizations with the goal of using code to dive deep into questions that you are interested in exploring. This is a largely project-based course; our projects will include creating 3D models and animations using the VPython programming environment, using code to analyze and visualize social justice issues through public datasets, and building your own machine learning models that you can use to make real-world predictions in fields of your choice. We will use the engineering design process to develop each project, including research, brainstorming, iterative prototyping, peer feedback, and communication. You will come away with skills to critically analyze and evaluate trends in science, technology, and society. No previous coding experience is needed. Students should be comfortable with mathematical thinking, troubleshooting, and sometimes feeling confused!

Prerequisite: Physics and departmental approval