20170/20172 *AP® Computer Science Principles

Course Name: *AP® COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES (PLTW)

Course Number: 20170/20172

Open to: Grade 9-12

Length: 2 semesters

Credits: 1 credit

Prerequisite: None

NOTE: Students enrolling in an AP® class will automatically be registered for that course's exam. An exam Opt-Out option is available.

NOTE: Students may count this toward a Math credit only after successful completion of Algebra 2 or Adv. Algebra 2.

This course is approved for AP® designation by College Board. All AP® courses are pending annual approval.

Content: Using Python® as a primary tool and incorporating multiple platforms and languages for computation. This course aims to develop computational thinking, generate excitement about career paths that utilize computing, and introduce professional tools that foster creativity and collaboration. Computer Science helps students develop programming expertise and explore the workings of the Internet. Projects and problems include development, visualization of data, cybersecurity, and simulation. PLTW is recognized by the College Board as an endorsed provider of curriculum and professional development for AP® Computer Science Principles (AP® CSP). This endorsement affirms that all components of the PLTW CSP's offerings are aligned to the AP® curriculum framework standard and the AP®CSP assessment.

Activities: Students work in teams to develop computational thinking and solve problems. Each unit focuses on one or more computationally intensive career paths. The course also engages students in issues raised by the present and future societal impact of computing. Students practice problem solving with structured activities and progress to open-ended projects and problems that require them to develop planning, documentation, communication, and other professional skills. Problems aim for ground-level entry with no ceiling so that all students can successfully engage the problems. Students with greater motivation, ability, or background knowledge will be challenged to work further.

Cost: Cost of AP® exam if taken.