Advanced Placement Computer Science A
Computer science embraces problem solving, hardware, algorithms and perspectives that help people utilize
computers to solve real-world problems in everyday life. The AP Computer Science A course introduces students
to computer science with fundamental topics that include problem solving, 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 object-oriented and imperative
problem solving and design. These techniques represent proven approaches for development solutions that can
scale up from small, simple problems to large, complex problems.
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
● Design and implement computer-based solutions to problems.
● Use and implement commonly used algorithms and data structures.
● Develop and select appropriate algorithms and data structures to solve new problems.
● Write solutions fluently in an object-oriented paradigm
●Write, run, test and debug solutions in the Java programming language
● Read and understand programs consisting of several classes and interacting objects
● Read and understand a description of the design and development process
● Understand the ethical and social implications of computer use.
Project STEM’s course is endorsed by the College Board and an authorized AP® Computer Science A course.
Prerequisites
This course requires a strong foundation in English and mathematics. Students must be comfortable with
functions and the concepts found in the uses of functional notation. Prior computer programming experience is not
required.
Course Description:
This course focuses on the details of writing computer software using the Java programming language. Our goal is to stress an object-oriented perspective throughout the material. The course emphasizes basic ideas of software engineering and our goal of developing high-quality software. We will also look at and discuss social and ethical issues around computing throughout the year.
The course will consist of code-along lessons, daily programming exercises, longer coding assignments, and regular quizzes and exams. Each lesson includes practice exercises including shorter coding problems. Well over 20 hours of instructional time is spent in hands-on coding. By the end of the course, you will be well prepared to take the AP Computer Science A exam
Please visit the AP College Board website for additional information.