Programming 102: From Code to Real-World Projects (Python)

Key Objectives:

• Level up from script writing to real-world problem solving: Students move beyond small exercises to solving meaningful problems using code, learning how to break complex ideas into clear, logical steps.

• Build bigger projects using Python and core CS concepts: Students apply data structures, algorithms, and object-oriented programming to design and build larger, more functional projects.

• Learn the basics of project planning and teamwork: Students work in teams to plan their project using clear roles, timelines, and coding tasks—building real project management habits.

• Use AI tools responsibly to support learning and creativity: Students learn how to get helpful suggestions from AI (like ChatGPT), while still taking full responsibility for testing, decision-making, and original work.

• Explain how their code works and reflect on what they learned: Students practice presenting their project clearly, explaining their design choices, and reflecting on how they solved problems.

Unit 1 (week 1-4): Python Data Structures

Organize Your Info Like a Pro

Learn how to use Python tools like lists, dictionaries, and sets to sort and store information. You’ll build things like scoreboards, collections, and contact lists.

You’ll be able to:

• Store and group data the smart way

• Pick the right structure for the job

• Solve mini-challenges using Python tools

Unit 2 (week 5-8): Problem Solving and Algorithms

Think Like a Coder

Take on fun coding challenges and learn how to break problems into steps. You’ll practice sorting, searching, and trying out recursion—a neat trick where functions call themselves!

You’ll be able to:

• Break down big problems into code

• Use sorting and searching algorithms

• Tell which code is faster or better

Unit 3 (week 9-11): Making Your Own Python Objects

Build Your Own Tools with OOP

Use Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) to design your own Python objects—like game characters, flashcards, or pets—with their own names and actions.

You’ll be able to:

• Create and customize Python classes

• Add behaviors to your objects (like .bark() or .move())

• Build systems like a pet simulator or quiz engine

Unit 4 (week 12-14): Project Building with AI Support

Code Your Dream Project—With a Little Help from AI

In this final unit, you’ll work in a team to build something awesome using Python—like a game, a tracker, or a quiz app. You’ll use AI tools (like ChatGPT) to help with ideas, code writing, and fixing bugs. But just like spellcheck doesn't write your whole essay, AI shouldn't do all the thinking for you!

We’ll talk about how to use AI responsibly:

What AI can help with:

• Coming up with ideas

• Writing or explaining small pieces of code

• Helping you debug or fix errors

• Giving examples to learn from

What you are responsible for:

• Making sure the code actually does what you want

• Testing everything yourself

• Giving credit if you use AI suggestions

• Making sure the project is fair, safe, and respectful

You’ll be able to:

• Plan and build a Python project with your team

• Use AI to help, not replace, your thinking

• Talk about what parts came from AI and what you did on your own

• Present and explain your project clearly and confidently

 In this hands-on course, students learn how to use Python to organize data, solve problems, and build creative projects. Starting with simple scripts, they’ll explore lists, dictionaries, and loops—then level up to algorithms, object-oriented programming, and team projects. Along the way, students will use AI tools like ChatGPT to support their work while learning how to use them responsibly. By the end of the course, students will present a full project that shows off their skills in coding, planning, and teamwork.