Mr. Beckler’s Computer Science & Engineering Courses at Benson Polytechnic High School

Below is an overview of the courses taught in Benson’s Computer Science and Engineering pathway. Each course emphasizes practical skills, problem solving, and preparing students for college-level work and real-world tech fields.

Computer Science 2 (Intermediate Programming with Python)

Level: Intermediate
Focus: Expands on core programming concepts using Python. Students move from basic scripts into full applications with more complex logic, algorithms, and structured problem solving.
Key Topics:

• Functions, modular code organization

• Lists, dictionaries, and data processing

• Designing interactive programs and simple games

• Introduction to debugging strategies
  End Goal: Students become confident intermediate Python programmers ready for more advanced CS or college coursework.

Python Programming (Advanced Python Projects)

Level: Advanced High School
Focus: Students build sophisticated Python projects including simulations, text adventure engines, game systems, and data-driven applications.
Key Topics:

• Multi-file programs and modular design

• Save/load systems and file I/O

• Algorithmic thinking and structured logic

• Designing interactive software from scratch
  End Goal: Students create a substantial final Python project, preparing them for dual credit or college-level CS.

C++ Programming

Level: Advanced High School
Focus: Introduces students to low-level programming concepts and the efficiency-oriented mindset behind compiled languages.
Key Topics:

• Variables, functions, loops, conditions

• Structured data, arrays, and pointers

• Basic file I/O and memory concepts

• Intro to debugging in a compiled environment
  End Goal: Students gain a strong foundation in C++ and understand how lower-level languages differ from Python.

CS 160 – Introduction to Computer Science (Dual Credit)

College-Level Course through PCC
Focus: A broad introduction to the foundations of computer science, programming, and computational thinking.
Key Topics:

• Problem solving and algorithm design

• Introductory programming (Python)

• Data representation and basic structures

• Software development principles
  End Goal: Earn transferable college credit and build the foundation required for CS 161 and CS 162.

CS 161 – Computer Science I (Dual Credit)

College-Level Course through PCC
Focus: A deeper dive into programming using structured approaches and larger programs.
Key Topics:

• Functions, modularization, and design

• Arrays, strings, user-defined data structures

• Testing and debugging

• Projects that enforce clean program architecture
  End Goal: Students master structured problem solving and complete college-level programming assignments.

CS 162 – Computer Science II (Dual Credit)

College-Level Course through PCC
Focus: Continues the CS 161 sequence with more advanced concepts and larger projects.
Key Topics:

• Dynamic memory

• Linked data structures

• Recursion and algorithms

• Multi-file software projects
  End Goal: Students produce efficient, well-organized programs and are prepared for higher-level CS courses in college.

Computer Engineering

Level: Advanced High School
Focus: Hands-on hardware, digital logic, and embedded systems. Students learn how software interacts with electronics.
Key Topics:

• Digital logic circuits and microcontrollers

• Sensors, inputs, motors, and physical computing

• Binary, logic gates, and hardware fundamentals

• Building and debugging real hardware prototypes
  End Goal: Students understand the bridge between code and electronics, building functional engineering projects.