ARTS , APPLIED DESIGN , SKILLS AND TECHNOLOGIES : FAQ
What is the difference between AP Computer Science A ( APCSA ) & AP Computer Science Principles ( APCSP )?
APCSA is solely focused on learning the Java programming language . APCSP focuses broadly and generally on an array of tech-related topics ( Digital Information , the Internet and related topics , intro to Programming ).
Which one is more rigorous , APCSA or APCSP ?
APCSA is more rigorous . APCSA has a 3 hour final AP exam that consists of multiple-choice and free-response questions requiring technical expertise and hand-written code . APCSP also has a 3 hour final AP exam that consists of multiple-choice and free-response questions , but is far less technical - no hand-written code is required . APCSP also requires a programming project to be submitted to the College Board for review - students are given ample class time to complete this project .
N . B . you are not required to take the AP exam ; but in order for the course to be used for University credit , you would need to take the exam and achieve the required score .
Which one should I take ?
You should take APCSA if you want to extend your programmatic knowledge-base and become a proficient Java programmer . You would take APCSP if you want a more general knowledge base in tech and would like to do some coding , but are generally interested in simply exploring and discussing a broad range of tech topics . Ideally , take APCSP first , followed by APCSA , but either order works .
There is no prerequisite for APCSP . We start off the year assuming that the students have no ICT knowledge . However , for APCSA the following courses are recommended : Computer Studies 10 , AP Computer Science Principles or with permission from the teacher following determination of prior experience and readiness for the rigour of the course .
Are there any prerequisites for courses in Drama , Dance , Art , Foods , Textiles or Choir ?
No . However , there are recommended courses that would support the learning in these courses .
Are there any prerequisites for Band and Orchestra ?
Yes . Students without the prerequisite absolutely must contact the teacher before signing up . Orchestra is for string players ( violin , cello , viola , double bass ); Band is for wind and percussion players ( flute , trumpet , saxophone , etc .). Some exceptions apply - but the teacher must be contacted before a student enrolls in the course . New and returning Gr . 8 string players who wish to enroll for Orchestra must be RCM level 8 , sight reading comfortably at Level 5 . All new / returning wind players Gr . 8-12 must select Band , unless given permission by the teacher to enroll in Orchestra .
Can a student take more than one M-block music course for credit ?
No . Students may select one M-block in which they can receive credit . They can , however , participate in other M-block ensembles with permission from the teachers .
I didn ’ t take ICT courses in the past , can I still take AP CS courses ? I feel I don ’ t have enough experience . How much IT experience is required for a student to be successful in an AP Computer Science course ?
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