Academic Handbook 2021-2022 71
• Design and content can influence the lives of others .
AP Computer Science A / Computer Programming 12
Prerequisite
Course Credit Course Duration Delivery Method
ICT : Computer Studies 10 or permission of the teacher following determination of prior experience and readiness for this course 4 credits Full year Variety of instructional strategies
AP Computer Science A is equivalent to a firstsemester , college-level course in computer science . The course introduces students to computer science with fundamental topics that include problemsolving , design strategies and methodologies , organization of data ( data structures ), approaches to processing data ( algorithms ), analysis of potential solutions , and the ethical and social implications of computing . The course emphasizes both objectoriented and imperative problem solving and design using Java language . These techniques represent proven approaches for developing solutions that can scale up from small , simple problems to large , complex problems . The AP Computer Science A course curriculum is compatible with many CS1 courses in colleges and universities .
Computer Programming 12 students analyze realworld challenges and devise algorithms or processes to create innovative solutions . Students will use this process to write a computer implementation of the solution in the Java programming language . The course will prepare students for a career or program of studies where logical thought and structured design processes are required . The emphasis is on the learning of the general principles of Computer Science , including problem-solving , class design , data structures and algorithms . Topics covered will include quantum computing , AI / ML , blockchain basics , cyber-security , encryption , version control , data visualization , physics simulations , generative art , IoT and digital wellness . Assessment is based on programming challenges and assignments .
These courses will run concurrently with a portion of the curriculum being shared . Additional modules may be assigned for AP students .
The Big Ideas explored in this course are :
• The design cycle is an ongoing reflective process .
• Personal design choices require self-exploration , collaboration , and evaluation and refinement of skills .
• Tools and technologies can be adapted for specific purposes .
AP Computer Science Principles
Prerequisite Course Credit Course Duration Delivery Method
None 4 credits Full year Variety of instructional strategies
AP Computer Science Principles offers a multidisciplinary approach to teaching the underlying principles of computation . The course will introduce students to the creative aspects of programming , abstractions , algorithms , large data sets , the Internet , cybersecurity concerns , and computing impacts . AP Computer Science Principles also gives students the opportunity to use current technologies to create computational artefacts for both self-expression and problem-solving . Together , these aspects of the course make up a rigorous and rich curriculum that aims to broaden participation in computer science .
• The design cycle is an ongoing reflective process .
• Personal design choices require self-exploration , collaboration , and evaluation and refinement of skills .
• Tools and technologies can be adapted for specific purposes .