AP Computer Science A: Java

ONLINE MEETINGS:

We will have class meetings with direct instruction twice a week. You are expected to be on time, attentive, focused, and alert. Distance Learning will give us an opportunity to meet independent of the CS Principles class. See? You're so lucky. =-)

You will need to be logged in from a Chromebook or other computer (not a phone) . Your camera should be on and you should have a mic available. I need to see your face, and you need to be responsive and interactive. If you don't have a working camera and microphone, let me know and we will get one for you.

Use your real name for your display name so I can mark you present for attendance. You will get participation points in the grade book for each online session: these are earned by being present, cooperative, and productive. If you need to miss a class, you should treat it as an absence just like you would on campus and contact the attendance office.

OFFICE HOURS AND COMMUNICATION:

In addition to our scheduled class meetings I will be available to meet via Zoom every weekday afternoon between 2 and 3. So if you need extra help or have questions about an assignment or grades, you can pop in during that time.

If you prefer to communicate via text, you can always get in touch with me via email at kirklandj@mdusd.org, on Google Classroom and Google Chat, via Home Link, or via DSA Slack. Please communicate professionally and be specific: include a "Subject" for every email.

CLASSWORK AND HOMEWORK:

Between our live meetings you will be expected to get stuff done, too! You will have individual, independent assignments ranging from coding practice and game design projects to research and readings, journal writes, discussion boards, critique sessions, and quizzes. Sometimes you might be expected to work with a partner, which will require you to communicate with each other. Most assignments will be accessed and submitted via either Google Classroom or CSAwesome @ Runestone, the electronic textbook we are going to work through.

It will be your responsibility to manage your time and get stuff done!

Time management will be the most challenging skill you learn during this school year.

DUE DATES AND GRADING:

Due dates will be reflected in Google Classroom, Runestone, and on the class Google Calendar. See the syllabus for the Late Work and Grading policies: late work will not receive full credit unless you request an extension in writing BEFORE the deadline. Check Home Link frequently!