AP Computer Science

Course Overview

Course Rationale:

Students will be introduced to a new way of thinking about computers as they learn to think as a computer thinks. The Java programming language will be the medium used to teach students a variety of computer science concepts and introductory data structures. Students will learn the computer language Java for the purpose of writing interactive programs to achieve a specific outcome thereby enhancing their critical thinking skills and problem solving ability.

Course Objectives:

This course is designed for the serious student who wishes to be challenged with demanding applications, wishes to learn object oriented design, and is interested in taking the AP Computer Science A Exam. This course covers the topics that will be tested on in the AP Computer Science Exam as specified in the AP Computer Science Course Description. Topics include data types, selection statements,looping, files, input and output, arrays, searching and sorting algorithms, graphics, inheritance, interfaces and classes. This course will also prepare the student to take Computer Science II Advanced which is designed for students interested in careers in computer science, engineering, mathematics, or science related fields.

Class Calendar

Required Class Materials

A USB-C drive to hold lab assignments.

Google Classroom

Westlake High School utilizes the Google Classroom platform to share classroom resources, many assignments, and assessment preparation materials to students. WHS students will receive a classroom code to access these materials, submit assignments, and track any missing work.

Additional Resources

In order to complete lab assignments at home you will need to download JDK and some sort of development environment. Here are the links:

To download JDK: Click on the link below. Accept the license agreement and download the jdk associated with your computer (Mac or Windows)

https://www.oracle.com/technetwork/java/javase/downloads/jdk12-downloads-5295953.html

To download the development environment Dr.Java: Click on the link below. Click on "download" and select the one associated with your computer (Mac or Windows)

http://www.drjava.org/

Remember you can take your labs home via a usb-c drive or simply access your shared drive from home using Rapid Identity.