AP® Computer Science Principles
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Couse description
AP® Computer Science Principles is a college-level course that sets the foundation for learning the concepts and challenges of computer science and its impacts on society. Students will stretch their creativity and problem-solving skills to build solutions for the issues they find important. They will learn how to design, develop, and evaluate computer programs using algorithms and the JavaScript programming language. Students will practice analyzing data and simulations to extract knowledge from information. While exploring computing innovations and the internet, they will uncover the benefits and risks of their digital world and how to help their community through technology. AP® Computer Science Principles is equivalent to a first-semester, college-level breadth course in computer science.
This course is designed to provide a college-level experience and prepare students for the AP® exam. Students wishing to take the AP® exam are responsible for registering prior to the November 15 deadline. AP® Exams are administered the following May. Students must take the AP® exam in order to receive AP® credit.
Couse information
Course Types
Approvals
Required Materials
Book(s): Optional text: Blown to Bits: Your Life, Liberty, and Happiness After the Digital Explosion
by Hal Abelson, Ken Ledeen, Harry Lewis, and Wendy Seltzer (available for free)
Equipment: Printer, any software program that can be used for graphic and document design.
In addition to a computer with an Internet connection, most courses require speakers (or headphones); a digital camera or scanner to take photos of completed work; a printer; common household items; access to research materials; and productivity software for word processing, presentations, etc.