Artificial Intelligence Foundations

Prepare students for the future with a high school course that blends real-world AI applications with computer science fundamentals—no prior experience needed.

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Flexible, future-ready learning

Empower students to explore the impact of computing and AI through real-world, engaging, and adaptable coursework.

  • No prior experience required—accessible to all students
  • Modular units tailored to your school’s goals.
  • Projects exploring data, ethics, privacy, and AI.
  • 100% free, with lesson plans, tutorials, and assessments.

Curriculum at a glance

  • Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

  • Level: Beginner

  • Duration: Semester

  • Devices: Chromebook, Computer

  • Topics: Programming, Data, Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, Internet

  • Tools: AI Chat Lab, Python Lab

  • Professional Learning: Facilitator-led Workshops, Self-paced Modules

  • Languages supported: English

This curriculum ignited a passion for programming in my students, and now I’m looking at a group of students that have been inspired to be the next generation of coders.

Laura Fuhrmann

High School Teacher

Find the best AI Foundations course for your class

Explore semester-long courses or mix-and-match units to meet your teaching goals.


Semester courses

Teach the full, semester-long AI Foundations course. We also offer state-aligned options for select states.


Explore flexible learning units

Discover six adaptable units that combine foundational computer science concepts with hands-on AI projects. Designed to meet CSTA standards and inspire real-world problem-solving.

Resources that support you every step of the way

Sign up for a Code.org account to get access to materials that will help you teach computer science with confidence. Code.org has extensive resources designed to support educators, even those without prior CS teaching experience.

Lesson Plans

Lesson Plans

Get step-by-step guidance, learning objectives, and assessment strategies for effective teaching. Helpful resources include slide decks, activity guides, rubrics, and more — all organized in one place. Each lesson plan is accompanied by tips for classroom implementation, differentiation ideas, and extension activities to cater to students of all abilities.

Explore example lesson plan

Videos

Instructional videos

Watch easy-to-understand overviews of computer science and programming concepts. Code.org video series are designed specifically to support your classroom and are engaging and fun to watch.

Explore all videos

Slides

Slide decks

We offer educators an organized, visually engaging, and pedagogically sound framework to deliver computer science lessons. Code.org slide decks provide step-by-step instructions, examples, and interactive activities that align with curricular objectives.

Explore example slide deck

Assessments

Assessments

Our curricula includes a comprehensive system of formative and summative assessment resources. These include rubrics, checklists, mini-projects, end-of-chapter projects, student-facing rubrics, sample projects, and post-project tests — all designed to support teachers in measuring student growth, providing feedback, and evaluating student understanding.

Explore an assessment lesson

Progress

Track your students' progress

Our powerful progress view helps you monitor student work by providing insights into completion status, time spent, and more. Easily track each student's learning journey, quickly assess participation, and give personalized feedback.

Sign up to start tracking progress
Stylized depiction of Code.org student progress view

Preparing to teach this curriculum

9-12 Teachers

Teaching AI Foundations

Provides educators with a comprehensive understanding of the curriculum, enabling them to effectively guide students through essential computer science concepts, the transformative role of AI, and hands-on experience with AI tools.

Explore the tools used in AI Foundations

Python Lab

Student-friendly IDE that runs real Python code.

AI Chat Lab

The AI Chat Lab tool, accessible only through our curriculum, allows students to experiment with AI models, learn prompt engineering, and customize chatbots using real-world techniques.

Frequently asked questions

What is AIF, and how does it fit into a high school CS pathway?

AIF (AI Foundations) is an introductory high school computer science course that integrates AI, data science, cybersecurity, and programming. It can serve as a student's first CS course or as a bridge to more advanced courses like AP CSP or AP CSA.

How does AI Foundations compare to CS Discoveries and AP CSP?

AI Foundations introduces foundational CS concepts like CS Discoveries but at a high school level and with a strong focus on AI and real-world applications. Unlike AP CSP, it is not tied to an AP exam and provides more in-depth exploration of AI, data science, and cybersecurity.

See in depth comparison to:


Does AIF satisfy computer science graduation requirements?

AIF is designed to meet the majority of state computer science graduation requirements. Specific alignment varies by state, so schools should verify with their local education authorities.

Is the course aligned with CSTA standards and other state/national requirements?

Yes, AIF aligns with CSTA standards and incorporates key concepts from state and national frameworks. It also integrates AI literacy, data science, and cybersecurity topics relevant to emerging standards.

Will students use AI tools in the course, and what are the age restrictions?

Yes, AI tools are integrated into the curriculum for learning and problem-solving. Students under 18 can use these tools within the Code.org platform, which complies with privacy and safety guidelines.

Read more about our AI Chat Lab here and how to view student AI Chat history as a teacher here.

Teachers sitting and discussing at a Code.org event

Still have questions? Reach out to us! We are here to help.

Our support team is here to answer any questions you may have about starting teaching with Code.org. You can also ask other teachers about their experience on our teacher forums.

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Additional resources

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Curriculum Catalog

Comprehensive curriculum offerings for every grade and experience level featuring robust structured and self-paced learning options.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Explore how AI is shaping our world through free curriculum, videos, and integrations that make artificial intelligence accessible and inspiring.

Professional Learning

Flexible, high-quality training that helps build confidence and equips teachers to effectively teach computer science with our curriculum.