Upper School Curriculum

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Spring

PREREQ: Algebra I, Geometry (may be concurrent), CS 100: Introduction to Programming or a combination of those prerequisites with permission of instructor

In the CS 300 Game Design course, students will design and code games and learn more about screen geometry, class design, event scripting, animation engines and project management. Students will work with Python and the Pygame library in the first half of the class and Godot — a free, online game development engine — for the second half. The course is built on a series of units that will push students to solve problems and create content while also developing the design and technical skills necessary to build their own games. Students will utilize online texts and tutorials plus direct instruction from the teacher to learn and master new topics. Concurrent or prior completion of Geometry is an essential foundation for success, as so much of game design requires students to apply basic 2-D and 3-D geometric concepts. The course uses primarily artifact-based assessment and includes a conversation with the teacher regarding future pathways of CS coursework during the student’s remaining time at DA.