CodeHS Computer Coding with C++

In this C++ computer coding course, students will work with an instructor to learn the C++ programming language, and take on projects following the CodeHS curriculum. Students will learn how to think like programmers by breaking problems into steps, writing clear instructions for a computer, and testing and improving their code. The class starts with simple programs that print text and use variables, then gradually moves into interactive projects like games, simulations, and small tools. No prior coding experience is required—just curiosity, patience, and a willingness to try, make mistakes, and learn from them.

By the end of the course, students will be able to write and explain their own C/C++ programs, use common programming building blocks (like loops and functions), and complete a small final project they design or customize.

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Skills Students Will Practice

• Writing and running programs in a beginner-friendly coding environment
• Problem-solving and step-by-step planning (algorithms)
• Debugging: finding and fixing errors using clues and tests
• Working with input/output to make programs interactive
• Writing readable code with good naming, spacing, and comments

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Concepts

Getting Started + How Programs Work

• What is programming? What do C and C++ do?
• Basic program structure (what “main” is)
• Printing text to the screen
• Simple errors: typos, missing symbols, and how to interpret error messages

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Variables, Types, and Math

• Variables (storing information)
• Common data types (integers, decimals, characters)
• Basic math operations and order of operations
• Updating variables (score counters, timers)

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Input, Choices, and Logic

• Getting user input (answering questions)
• Decision-making with if, else if, else
• Comparisons (greater than, equal to, etc.)
• Boolean logic ideas (AND / OR)

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Loops

• for loops and while loops
• Counting, repeating questions, retrying until correct
• Patterns and simple animations made from text

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Functions

• Why functions help (reuse and clarity)
• Writing and calling functions
• Parameters (inputs to functions) and return values (outputs)

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Arrays / Lists and Simple Data Handling

• Storing multiple values (like a list of scores)
• Finding max/min, averages, counting items
• Simple searching (find an item)

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C++ Features

• Differences between C and C++ (in a simple way)
• Basic C++ strings (text handling) if appropriate
• Very gentle introduction to objects/classes (optional)

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Post-CodeHS: C++ Projects

After a student completes the planned projects from CodeHS, the instructor will select projects in sync with the interests and abilities of your student. After finishing a project, students can continue to take on new, more advanced projects to build their skills.

Example Projects

1. Interactive Story
   Branching story with choices and multiple endings.
2. Simple Video Game
   These can include a guessing game, dice game, simple text adventure, trivia game, etc.
3. Student Idea
   Students build something they care about, such as:
   • A multi-level quiz game
   • A text-based “escape room”
   • A simple simulator (pet care, garden growth, space travel decisions)
   • A mini “toolbox” program (calculator + conversions + randomizer)

Projects typically include:

• A clear goal and instructions for the user
• At least one loop, one decision structure, and multiple functions
• Testing and a short reflection (“What was hard? What did I fix?”)
• Improvements and changes mirroring real world development cycles

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Student Requirements

• No experience required
• Some basic typing ability and comfort using a computer
• A growth mindset: programming involves experimenting and debugging!