Computer Science

Recommendation: AP Computer Science Principles (5128)
This course is open to 10th-12th graders.

We highly recommend that if students wish to take both AP CS courses, they enroll in APCSP before APCSA.  

UC approved "c"

Students learn to design, write, and test complex programs in the Java programming language. AP Computer Science A introduces students to computer science through programming. Fundamental topics in this course include the design of solutions to problems, the use of data structures to organize large sets of data, the development and implementation of algorithms to process data and discover new information, the analysis of potential solutions, and the ethical and social implications of computing systems. The course emphasizes object-oriented programming and design using the Java programming language. 

This course is open to all 10th-12th graders and has no prerequisites. We highly recommend that if students wish to take both AP CS courses, they enroll in APCSP before APCSA. 

(UC approved “d”)

If a student chooses to only take one computer science class, we highly recommend it be this one. This class is built around the six Computational Thinking Practices and seven Big Ideas as identified by the College Board’s AP CS Principles curriculum.  These concepts are using creativity, exposure to different aspects of digital information, abstraction, algorithms, programming, how the internet works, security, privacy, global impact of technology, big data analysis and our relationship to it all.  Students work alone and in groups to read, research and become familiar with these fundamental computer concepts. Students use the CodeHS learning platform as their primary source of coding practice. Students complete the Create Performance Task and prepare for the multiple-choice portion of the exam. This course fulfills the first of two-courses in the Software and Systems Development Pathway Program*

Recommendation: No prerequisites

 (UC approved “g”)

This is an introductory level, two-part course focused on physical computing and robotics. Part 1 of the course provides students with a hands-on, projects-based environment in building, maintaining and integrating computer systems using Raspberry Pi and its components. Students will learn how to control cameras, sensors and GPIO to do creative projects using the Python programming language. Part 2 of the course provides students with an introduction to robotics and computing including modeling, designing, planning, and programming with hands-on robotics projects using motors and sensors. Students will use VEX V5 system (or an equivalent system) as the primary robotics equipment and Python for the programming language. Topics in computer science ethics and current events are integrated into the course.

Web Design and Development will be offered for course signup but may not run, depending on interest
Recommendation:  AP Computer Science Principles (5128)
Priority given to students 16 and older

UC approved "g"

This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and experience needed to develop, implement, and manage effective dynamic websites. Key development concepts and tools include HTML, CSS, JavaScript as well as popular content management systems, like WordPress. This course fulfills the second of two-courses in the Software and Systems Development Pathway Program*. Students can obtain an industry-recognized web design exam certificate at the end of the course.

* The APCSP and Web Design and Development courses fulfill the Software and Systems Development Career Technical Education (CTE) Pathway. Students receive a CTE certificate after completing both courses.  Students enrolled in the Web Design and Development course also have the opportunity to take an industry-recognized web design certification exam at the end of the course.