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A.P. Computer Science 2010-11
A Curriculum
J. Ferguson / Charles Wright Academy
Overview
The AP Computer Science course will cover those topics that would normally comprise an introductory college-level course toward a major in computer science. Because this is an introductory level class, no prior knowledge of computers or computer programming languages is needed. The prerequisites are knowledge of mathematical notation at the level of second year Algebra, experience in problem solving, ability to organize one’s ideas, and competence in written communication. A primary objective is to teach students to be able to fully describe, analyze, and solve computer-related problems. In order to do so, students write logically structured, well-documented programs using the Java language. The broader issues of computer systems and the social and economic implications of computing will be
integrated into the course.
All students are expected to take the College Boards AP exam in May. The course is designed to be the equivalent of one semester of college work and, as a result, students will take the Computer Science A level AP exam.
Objectives
A.P. Computer Science is comparable to introductory computer science courses offered at major universities and colleges. The curriculum corresponds, with some minor exceptions, to that outlined by the Association of Computing Machinery and the IEEE Computer Society, two national groups promoting compatibility of first year university courses.
While scoring well on the A.P. exam in May and receiving college credit is a goal for some, most students consider the course a challenging and interesting exposure to a new area of study. Whether or not a student receives college credit, the class provides a solid foundation for any student wishing to continue with computer science at the university level. However for many students the organizational and problem-solving skills learned are the most important benefits. These skills are applicable to many areas of further study and students find that a year's exposure to computer science enhances their eventual work in a variety of non-computer related careers.
Expectations
1. First it should be noted that this is an introductory course which assumes no prior computer science experience. We begin the course slowly, forming a strong foundation, to which we later add the main structure of the course. Students are expected to have many questions, particularly since the class explores topics new to most. It is essential that students keep up with the cumulative nature of the course by regularly asking questions. I always welcome questions outside of class as well as during the class period.
2. All students will take the A.P. Computer Science A Level exam in May.
3. This course depends on students being able to work independently and self-sufficiently. In particular, great emphasis is placed on keeping up with the reading and homework assignments. Class time will include some lecture, discussion of concepts, and review of homework problems; however, these are minimized to enable as much programming practice as possible during the course. Thus, students will gain most of their theoretical foundation for the concepts in the course by thoroughly completing the readings and conscientiously keeping up with the homework.
4. Students should expect to keep up with nightly reading and homework assignments. In addition, students will need to spend time at home or during free periods at school working on programming assignments. We will use Eclipse to write programs and you will be encouraged to install this program at home (it is free). Use an USB jump drive to move files to and from school.
5. Much of the course work comes in the form of photocopies. Students are required to keep a three-ring binder just for this course and to organize it into the sections outlined in the "APCS Binder Organization" description below.
6. The course encompasses an extensive syllabus; thus it is imperative that we maintain a consistent time schedule. Students should not fall behind. Late programs will lose points according to the overall weight of the program (usually 1/2 to 1 point per day). Late homework assignments will be marked down 1 point per class period to a maximum of 4 points. Generally homework papers will count 10 points while programs count 10 to 30 points, however homework, programs, and tests have different weights in the determination of the final marking period grade.
7. Most tests and most quizzes will be announced, however you may be given an occasional surprise.
8. You will be asked to sign the following honor code statement with every test or quiz.
Honor Code for A.P. Computer Science
I have read and agree to abide by the following honor code for A.P. Computer Science. I will take this test/quiz independently without discussion with anyone or reference to any printed or electronic material (except when specifically allowed in the written directions). I will abide by any additional requirements outlined in the directions. I will not talk to anyone about this test/quiz before, during, or after I take it (until Mr. Ferguson has all the tests turned in from all the students). I will not use any material from books, from notes, from my own or other student's work, or from the Internet specifically relating to the questions on this test/quiz before or during the test/quiz. General review and preparation for taking this test/quiz is obviously allowed.
Written directions may allow some helpful resources on a particular test or quiz.
Signature
9. Each student will be graded independently on their work which includes homework, programs, quizzes, tests, and contributions to class discussions. However, in the real world apart from the classroom, programmers often collaborate extensively on the solutions to problems. A goal of this course is to simulate that collaboration on programs, but NOT on homework, quizzes, or tests. You are expected to walk a fine line between doing your own work on programs and getting "help" from your neighbors. The following is intended to delineate that line.
You are expected to fully understand what you are doing. If you ask a neighbor for an insight on a program, then a couple of things should happen.
• If you have a syntax (a spelling or grammatical mistake) error, your neighbor should indicate the line where the error exists without specifically stating what the error is. This gives you the opportunity to find the error.
• If you have a logic error, your neighbor should only give a hint, not the full solution. They can provide a direction, not an answer.
• Your neighbor should become an educator and teach you rather than simply saying "Do it this way" or showing you the correct programming code.
• You should take the responsibility to fully comprehend every solution. Simply copying someone else's programming code is not acceptable. Doing so only jeopardizes your understanding and will result in lower grades when it comes to tests.
• You should be able to articulate the reasoning behind a solution to a programming problem and be able to implement a similar solution on a test.
Grading Policies
1. A.P. Computer Science relies heavily on my evaluation of a student's work, rather than strictly being based on numerical scores.
2. Quizzes, in-class tests, take-home tests, homework assignments, programs are weighted to form a student's marking period percentage. A student's grade is formulated according to the scale listed below. My evaluation of a student's progress, based on conferences and indications of the student's ability to apply the concepts of the course, is factored into this score. Here are the weightings:
70% In-class tests and quizzes. Once or twice during the year there may be a take-home test or quiz
12.5% Homework Assignments
17.5% Programming Assignments
Teacher Evaluation may adjust the final grade
3. Because we spend 4-5 weeks at the beginning of the year covering more introductory material, students should be aware that the second marking period will weigh heavier in the determination of the fall semester grade than the first.
4. Students should also be aware that the topics covered become more challenging in the second semester.
Grading Scale
APCS Binder Organization
1. You will need a large 3-ring binder for the course.
2. You must divide you binder into the following sections:
a. Assignment Schedules
Keep assignment schedules in this section of your binder.
b. Homework
Your graded homework assignments belong here.
c. Handouts
As we progress through the course, various handouts will be distributed.
d. Programs
Your graded programs should be kept in this section.
3. You should hole punch your work before turning it in.
4. A periodic homework grade will be given on your notebook.
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