Incorporate the lesson guides into your curriculum

  • 5 minutes

Now, let's create an alignment unit plan(s). Use a lesson plan template to guide the work. Take a moment and open the following documents:

Consult the completed alignment plan template for an example. Note that the example is specific to the Software Development Domain on page 8.

First, enter the domain at the top of the document. Then, go to the CS Toolkit document and look for the lesson guide designed for the appropriate age level. The sample document is for a level 1 educator. In the top two cells in the table, copy and paste (big idea, big question, learning goals, and supplementary goals) directly from the lesson guide onto the alignment unit plan. Then write out ways that embed the computer science content within the current curriculum content.

For those teaching levels 1 through 9, work independently or with an age level group partner to identify when to embed the big idea into the current units of study. List as many connections as possible for each subject area. This activity provides variety and choice for embedding the CS content into the curriculum.

For those teaching levels 10 through 12, notice under supplementary goals the section “isolated unit." If the domain works better as an isolated unit, delete the subject area rows and move to the activities section. However, if the lesson connects to a content area, note those connections and share them with your learners during the lesson.

Additionally, jot down any other resources that are applicable to the unit.

Independent work directions

If working independently, select one domain area and write the alignment unit plan that represents the age level.

Partner directions

If working with a grade level team to create alignment unit plans, assign each group member a different domain. If needed pair up group members to work on domains together.

Tasks during your work time:

  • Assign groups
  • Access the plan document
  • Review domain guide
  • Complete the prompts in the plan document

Remember, create a unit plan for each big idea that corresponds to the age level.

Reflection

  • What do you need tomorrow to put what you did today into action?
  • What will you need in the next few months to finish the work you started today?