Advanced Placement

The focus of this course is to provide students with a conceptual background in computer science. The major emphasis is on programming methodology, algorithms, and non-dynamic data structure in the JAVA language. This course prepares a student for Advanced placement in computer science by means of the Advanced Placement Examination Level A in Computer Science of the College Entrance Board. Students are required to take the AP Computer Science A examination which is administered in May.

The AP Computer Science Principles course is designed to be equivalent to a first-semester introductory college computing course. In this course, students will develop computational thinking skills vital for success across all disciplines, such as using computational tools to analyze and study data and working with large data sets to analyze, visualize, and draw conclusions from trends. The course engages students in the creative aspects of the field by allowing them to develop computational artifacts based on their interests. Students will also develop effective communication and collaboration skills by working individually and collaboratively to solve problems, and will discuss and write about the impacts these solutions could have on their community, society, and world. This course may not be used for a math credit. This course is equivalent to the Software Engineering (PLTW) course. Therefore, students who have taken the Software Engineering (PLTW) course should not enroll in this AP Computer Science course as additional credit will not be granted.

This course cultivates the skills and discipline necessary to conduct independent research in order to produce and defend a scholarly academic thesis. The course offers an opportunity for students to explore an academic topic, problem, or issue of individual interest. Through this exploration, students design, plan and conduct a yearlong mentored, research-based investigation to address a research question. The course culminates in an academic thesis paper and a presentation with an oral defense.

The Capstone curriculum is designed to further develop inquiry and research skills as applied to topics of global relevance. The program helps foster communication, collaboration, and creative skills to improve college and career readiness and success. Students participating in this program have required tasks that include a team project, and individual presentation, and a written exam.