Computer science is taught by Mrs.Taricco and in this class, we start off by learning how to design websites using HTML and CSS code. We also study programming concepts introduced in the AP computer science course as well as learning Java. We then use this knowledge in labs and practice solving problems. This class teaches us the theory and practical skills for web design and programming.
Recognizing the essential role of communication and the challenges faced by students lacking an English background, we aimed to create an app to address this issue. Language is the cornerstone of human interaction, allowing people to share ideas, thoughts, and beliefs. Society often relies on languages, particularly English, to facilitate communication. However, many individuals struggle to learn the language of their region, limiting their opportunities. Effective communication is crucial for thriving in society, and comprehension is fundamental for working with others. ESL/ELL students from one Grafton High School classroom identified speaking and writing as the most challenging aspects of learning English. Our app seeks to mitigate these difficulties by providing targeted support to improve language skills.
The target audience for this app includes the growing number of immigrants and their children who face the challenge of learning English. The Brookings Institute estimates that nearly one million immigrants, most lacking strong English skills, enter the United States annually. Many children among them struggle with communication in school, leading to exclusion and stress. Even ESL classes often fall short of providing sufficient attention. Our app addresses these issues by gamifying the learning process to keep users engaged. Upon logging in, users can resume their progress and choose between reading comprehension or pronunciation exercises. For comprehension, they answer multiple-choice questions based on their skill level to improve their understanding of school texts. For pronunciation, they listen to recordings of words or short phrases and record their attempts to enhance speaking skills. As users progress, they encounter more complex material, ultimately improving their communication abilities, which are crucial for thriving in society.
The app strives to assist language learning in two areas: reading comprehension and pronunciation. For reading comprehension, users are presented with multiple-choice questions. For pronunciation, the app includes audio of correct pronunciations for users to listen to and practice, followed by recording and submitting their audio. Using SpeechSuper API, the app analyzes and grades the users' recordings. Gradually increasing in difficulty, single words turn into short phrases, and the number of fill-in-the-blank questions for comprehension increases. Selected words aid in conversational English, benefiting users in both areas. Affirmations at the bottom of each page motivate users to continue improving their English skills. Information is stored in the database, allowing users to track their progress over time.
The MVP (minimum viable product) for this app includes two primary sections for language learning: Reading Comprehension and Pronunciation. Targeting K-12 students, with a focus on K-4, the app is designed to address niche goals based on their needs, allowing for growth in these and neighboring areas. This involves tracking proficiency in common English words. By creating a comparative analysis between sample audio files from databases and the user's collected audio, the app aims to assess and enhance pronunciation accuracy based on specific metrics, storing and rotating this data as needed. Our app also focuses on creating positive affirmations with 35 variations. After consulting with Madame Wildfong, a language instructor with years of experience, it was clear that the attitude toward the mentee is crucial. These affirmations will help users gain confidence as they use the app.
Some important features of our app include two main facets: pronunciation and reading comprehension. For pronunciation, the app accepts audio input and analyzes recorded words or sentences, providing feedback and suggestions for improvement. In terms of reading comprehension, we offer multiple-choice fill-in-the-blank questions. Additionally, the app tracks user progress, providing feedback and affirmations to motivate and encourage users. It also solicits feedback from users before and after practice sessions to foster a sense of trust and care.
In Bulgarian Solitaire, the objective was to input an integer N, representing the total number of cards. N had to be a triangular number, requiring a set of consecutive numbers (starting from 1) whose sum equaled N. For instance, 10 qualifies as a triangular number because 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 = 10. Once N was determined, it had to be divided into random piles with varying deck sizes. The process involved extracting a card from each pile to form a new one, and this cycle continued until a list of consecutive numbers, in any order, that added up to N was achieved. Figuring out how to complete this code was a very challenging experience, but it was very satisfying to finish it.
In the Federal Tax Rate Lab, we worked on incorporating user input and multi-level decision structures, requiring us to calculate the applicable tax based on the user's inputted income and marital status. I found the Federal Tax Rate Lab to be engaging due to its emphasis on real-world applications of our code.