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Introduction to Computer Programming: Software Development in the Age of AI, 1e, ©2026

Grades: 8 - 12

This hands-on program is a structured introduction to programming fundamentals and software development concepts. Designed for CTE pathways, the material connects classroom learning with real-world technical skills and career opportunities in software, AI, data, automation, and other fast-growing computing fields. Students learn to think like developers—planning, writing, reviewing, and iterating on code as part of a structured development workflow.

Program Details

Buildingthe skills, mindset, and habits of real developers

 

Introduction to ComputerProgramming takes students fromfoundational coding concepts to building real software applications, with AItools integrated throughout. Beginning with how software systems are designedand prototyped, and progressing through Python programming, data structures, UX/UIdesign, and search strategies, students develop the technical confidence andproblem-solving instincts that define modern developers.


  • Skill building: Students write and debug Pythonprograms, work with real data structures and APIs, apply search algorithms, andexplore natural language processing, building a foundation that supportsfurther study in computer science and CTE technology pathways.
  • Real-life active learning: Every unitconnects to authentic software development practices. Students plan before theycode, test and iterate on their work, and complete a capstone project thatbrings their skills together in a real application.
  •  AI as a learning partner: Students use AItools to predict outputs, debug code, and improve solutions, buildingresponsible, effective AI habits with an emphasis on thinking first and usingAI to sharpen their own understanding.
  • Empowering digital: An adaptiveSmartbook, assessments, and simulations power student learning, while bonusresources support career exploration and durable skills. Teacher resourcesstreamline lesson prep and strengthen instruction.

ViewTextbook Sampler

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  • Chapter 1: Software Engineering and AI
  • Chapter 2: Planning and Prototyping
  • Chapter 3: Python Foundations
  • Chapter 4: Loops, Functions, and Problem Solving
  • Chapter 5: Data Structures and File Processing
  • Chapter 6: APIs, Data Cleaning, and Data Interpretation
  • Chapter 7: Interactive Data Applications
  • Chapter 8: Search Strategies and Language Processing
  • Capstone Project