Topic: Computing Science - Understanding how computers process information using Python

Desired Outcome: By the end of this topic, students will understand how computers process information and be able to apply this knowledge using the Python programming language.

Week 1: - Introduction to Computing Science and its importance in our daily lives - Understanding the basic components of a computer system (hardware and software) - Introduction to Python programming language and its relevance in Computing Science - Basic Python syntax and writing simple programs

Week 2: - Exploring data types in Python (strings, integers, floats, booleans) - Variables and their role in storing and manipulating data - Basic input/output operations in Python - Writing programs to perform simple calculations and display results

Week 3: - Introduction to decision-making in programming using conditional statements (if, else, elif) - Understanding Boolean logic and its application in decision-making - Writing programs with conditional statements to solve simple problems - Debugging and troubleshooting common errors in Python programs

Week 4: - Introduction to loops and iteration in Python (for and while loops) - Understanding the concept of iteration and its importance in programming - Writing programs with loops to perform repetitive tasks - Applying loops to solve problems and automate processes

Week 5: - Introduction to functions in Python and their role in modular programming - Understanding the concept of function parameters and return values - Writing and using functions to solve complex problems - Applying functions to break down tasks into smaller, manageable parts

Week 6: - Introduction to data structures in Python (lists, tuples, dictionaries) - Understanding the characteristics and usage of different data structures - Manipulating and accessing data within data structures - Writing programs to store, retrieve, and manipulate data using data structures

Week 7: - Introduction to file handling in Python - Reading and writing data to files using Python - Understanding file formats and their importance in data storage - Writing programs to read data from files, perform operations, and save results

Week 8: - Recap of all the concepts covered throughout the topic - Reviewing and practicing Python programming skills - Solving complex problems using a combination of concepts learned - Presenting and sharing final projects or programs created during the topic

Assessment: - Regular formative assessments throughout the topic to gauge understanding and progress - Summative assessment at the end of the topic, which may include a written test, practical programming tasks, or a project-based assessment - Feedback and guidance provided to students to support their learning and improvement

Note: This topic plan is designed for First level students following the Scottish curriculum and focuses on understanding how computers process information using the Python programming language. The plan covers various fundamental concepts of Computing Science and gradually builds upon them to develop students’ programming skills and problem-solving abilities.