AP Computer Science A
This college-level course is designed to provide each student with a solid foundation in object-oriented programming and logical problem-solving techniques. Through an organized presentation that includes object-oriented concepts, standard logic algorithms, and hands-on programming projects, each student will develop and strengthen their ability to conceptualize and solve problems through the implementation of effective solutions. Using the Java programming language, students will explore data encapsulation, class and method constructs, standard programming algorithms, programming methodology, and syntax structures. Students will work on programming examples including a minimum of 20 hours of lab work. This course is designed to prepare each student to complete the AP Computer Science A exam.
RECOMMENDED PRE-REQUISITE: Pre-Algebra
Chromebooks are not compatible with the coding programs used for this course. Students must have a Mac or PC.
Register for AP Computer Science A
Basic and On Demand are always open for registration.
Plus courses are created upon request.
SEMESTER 1
Unit 0: Introduction to AP Computer Science A
- Course Overview
- The AP Exam
- Introduction to Computer Science
- History of Computing
- Digital Data Representation
- Ethical Use and Responsibility
- Computational Thinking
Unit 1: Intro to Java/Primitive Types
- Using Java
- Output in Java
- Primitive Variables
- Data Types
- Basic Input and Output
- Arithmetical Operations
- Operators
- Casting
Unit 2: Using Objects
- Object-Oriented Programming
- Methods
- Parameters
- String Class
- String Methods
- Java API and the Java Subset
- Integer and Double Classes
- Math Class
Unit 3: Boolean Expressions and If Statements
- Control Structures
- Logical Operations
- Compound Boolean Expressions
Unit 4: Iteration/Loops
- while Loops
- for Loops
- Traversing Loops
- Types of Errors
- Logic - AP Exam Review
- Consumer Review Lab
Unit 5: Writing Classes
- Creating a Class
- Instantiate an Object
- Documentation
- Encapsulation
- this Keyword
SEMESTER 2
Unit 6: Arrays
- Arrays
- Traversing Arrays
Unit 7: ArrayLists and Collections
- ArrayLists
- ArrayList Methods
- Traversing ArrayLists
- Algorithms
- Algorithm Examples
- Algorithm Pre & Post Conditions
- Sorting Algorithms and Binary Search
- Trace Algorithms
- AP Exam Review: Algorithms
- AP Exam Review: Data Structures
- Programming Basics Exam Review
Unit 8: 2D Arrays
- 2D Arrays
- Traversing 2D Arrays
- Stenography Lab
Unit 9: Inheritance
- OOP Example
- Inheritance
- Constructors for Subclasses
- Overriding Methods
- super Keyword
- Inheritance Hierarchy
- Polymorphism
- Object Class
- Object Superclass
Unit 10: Recursion
- Recursion
- Recursive Base Case
- Fibonacci Recursive
- Recursion - AP Exam Review
- AP Exam Review: OOP
- AP Exam Review: Software Development
- Basic APCSA Exam Strategies