Computer Programming and Its Benefits

What is the central idea of paragraphs 1-3?

• Learning computer programming helps students improve problem-solving, math, and creativity skills, which can help them in other subjects.

• Steve Jobs believed everyone should learn to code so they can work in the tech industry.

• Learning computer programming helps students improve problem-solving, math, and creativity skills, but only for technology-related subjects.

• Coding is mainly helpful for improving digital literacy.

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How does the phrase "transfer of their learning" in paragraph 3 support the author’s argument about the benefits of studying computer programming?

• It shows that learning computer programming helps students improve only in math and science.

• It highlights that the skills gained from computer programming apply across many subjects, enhancing overall academic performance.

• It suggests that students can only use their computer programming skills in technology-related fields.

• It indicates that the main benefit of computer programming is for students interested in pursuing careers in coding.

How does the author’s view on learning computer programming differ from traditional ideas about education, and what examples from paragraphs 1-3 show this view?

• The author says computer programming should only be for students who want to work in technology, but shows it helps students in math and science.

• The author thinks computer programming should only be taught to high school students to help them get into college, and uses college enrollment rates as proof.

• The author suggests that computer programming should be taught only in elementary school to help students with math and science.

• The author believes all students should learn computer programming, not just those interested in technology, and shares research showing how it helps with thinking, creativity, and doing well in all subjects.

How does the author develop the argument that learning computer programming has benefits beyond just coding, and what evidence supports this claim in paragraphs 1-3?

• The author explains how Steve Jobs’ personal beliefs about coding laid the foundation for computer science education, showing how his ideas influenced the field.

• The author uses studies and research to show how programming helps students improve in critical thinking, creativity, and performance in other subjects, strengthening the argument that programming is important for all students.

• The author provides examples of successful tech entrepreneurs to show how coding leads directly to career success, using these stories as evidence for its importance.

• The author focuses on explaining how coding is fun and can help students with specific technology-related skills, supporting the idea that programming is valuable only for those interested in tech careers.

Which key detail supports this central idea of paragraphs 4-7, “Studying computer science helps students do better in school and makes them more likely to go to college.”

• A study found that students who studied computer science were more likely to take extra math courses in high school.

• A study found that students who studied computer science were 17% more likely to enroll in college than their peers.

•  A study found that students who studied computer science were more likely to get high-paying jobs in technology fields.

• A study found that students who studied computer science were more likely to pursue careers in programming.

How does the word “aptitude” in paragraph 5 help explain why computer science students perform better on standardized tests?

• It suggests that students who study computer science are naturally good at taking tests.

• It means that computer science students take special tests designed just for them.

• It shows that studying computer science helps students develop problem-solving, which can improve their performance for tasks.

• It means that computer science students don’t face as many challenges on standardized tests as other students.

How does the author’s perspective on the importance of studying computer science in paragraphs 4-7 challenge the traditional way of thinking about education, and what evidence from the text supports this view?

• The author says computer science should only be important for high school students, and gives evidence showing that it helps students get into college.

• The author believes computer science should only be taught in elementary school to help students with math and science, using test results from younger students as proof.

• The author argues that computer science is most important for high school students and gives evidence that it helps them get into college, and does talk about its benefits for younger students

• The author challenges the idea that computer science is only useful for tech careers by explaining that it helps students develop important skills like problem-solving and creativity, and that it benefits students at all grade levels.

How could adding more information make the argument stronger that learning computer science helps students in ways other than just coding, based on paragraphs 4-7?

• Adding examples that show computer science helps students do better in subjects like history or language arts, not just math.

• Giving more research that compares students who studied computer science with those who didn’t, showing how it helps them succeed in college and their careers.

• Sharing examples of how students who study computer science do better in technology fields like web design or app development.

• Telling stories about students who enjoyed computer science and became more interested in school overall.

Which of the following is the best summary of paragraphs 8 and 9?

• Students who study computer science do better at solving problems, whether they are in school or university.

• Learning computer science only helps students in math and science subjects.

• Students who study computer science perform worse at problem-solving than those who study other subjects.

• Computer science only helps students in university, not in primary school.

What does the word “executive” in paragraph 8 mean in relation to the problem-solving tasks?

• They focus only on being creative.

• They involve making decisions and planning.

• They test reading skills.

• They are only about solving math problems.