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Bootstrap:Algebra

The Algebra Module, based on the Bootstrap:Algebra curriculum supports the introduction of computation design using structured diagramming and problem solving techniques. Students program their own video game by learning to solve a series of computational word problems. All of the learning in the Algebra module supports skills in Mathematics and on their state exams.

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  • Unit 1Students discuss the components of their favorite videogames, and discover that they can be reduced to a series of coordinates. They then explore coordinates in Cartesian space, and identify the coordinates for the characters in a game at various points in time. Once they are comfortable with coordinates, they brainstorm their own games and create sample coordinate lists for different points in time in their own game.

  • Unit 2Students are introduced to a set-mapping representation for functions, in which the function object exists as a means of translating points from a Domain into a Range. Coupled with their understanding of Circles of Evaluation, students generalize their understanding of functions to include other datatypes, including Strings and Images.

  • Unit 3Students are introduced to the Definitions area, and learn the syntax for defining values of various types. They are also introduced to the syntax of defining functions and creating examples.

  • Unit 4Students continue to practice the Design Recipe by applying it to simple problems.

  • Unit 5Students define functions that map attributes of their game from one frame to the next, allowing them to move their dangers, targets, and projectiles.

  • Unit 6Students discover Boolean types, and use them to create programs that test values, and then model scenarios using these programs.

  • Unit 7Students use piecewise functions to move their players in response to key-presses.

  • Unit 8Students derive, discuss, and prove the Pythagorean theorem, then use this theorem—in conjunction with Booleans—to detect collisions in their games.

  • Unit 9Students edit game details, practice talking about their code, and prepare for their Launch Party!