Computer Science and Literacy Courses

Grade 10-12 | Credits: 2.5

This course will provide a practical introduction to game design and game design concepts, emphasizing the basic tools of game design: paper and digital prototyping, design iteration, and user testing. This course will allow students to spend the quarter learning how to create a basic video game or game content. Students who have an interest in video game design but do not know where to begin should consider taking this course. At the most basic level, students may use 2D game creation software such as Game Maker to look into the mechanics of gaming and the code behind it. There is also the opportunity to explore further and collaborate in groups to create a more advanced game using a game-engine and animation software.

Grade 10-12 | Credits: 2.5

Principles of Cybersecurity will provide learners with principles of data and technology that frame and define cybersecurity. Learners will gain insight into the importance of cybersecurity and the integral role of cybersecurity professionals. The interactive, self-guided format will provide a dynamic learning experience where users can explore foundational cybersecurity principles, security architecture, risk management, attacks, incidents, and emerging IT and IS technologies.

Grade 10-12 | Credits: 5 | Prerequisite: A grade of A- or better in Introduction to Computer Science - OR - Instructor approval | Dual-Credit Option

If you do not meet the prerequisite and you want to take APCS, please contact your school counselor.

Introduction to Computer Science Topics, click HERE.

AP Computer Science Principles is a course that will introduce students to the big ideas of computer science, and how computers will change our lives.  Instead of teaching specific applications, students will have to use all aspects of computer science to solve large-scale problems affecting society. 

The course focuses on three important ideas:

1. Creativity in solving problems
2. A means to solve technological problems using large amounts of data
3. Internet and societal citizenry  

While programming skills are expected, knowledge of programming is only required for solving the task at hand. Grading will be based on collaborative as well as individual portfolio assessments. Students who complete this course will be prepared to take the AP Computer Science Principles exam.

Grades 10-12 | Credits: 5 | Prerequisites:  A grade of A or better in Introduction to Computer Science, Co-requisite: Algebra II | Dual-Credit Option

If you do not meet the prerequisite and you want to take APCS, please contact your school counselor.

Introduction to Computer Science Topics, click HERE.

This full-year course is designed to prepare students to take the AP Computer Science exam. Students build on their understanding of computer science through the use of the Java language, used in many higher education institutions. The study of object-oriented program design and algorithms is a major emphasis. Topics include strings, vectors, classes and the AP exam format.

Grades 10-12 | Credits: 2.5 | Prerequisite: Passed Algebra I

This is an intensive Java programming course.  The Introduction to Computer Science course is a one-semester, introductory programming course and lays the foundation for future work in computer science.  Students taking the course are required to take a prerequisite math course of at least Algebra I A.  The course focuses on using a programming language to solve problems.  Students will be introduced to an object-oriented programming language. They will design and develop programs to be run and tested on the computer. The course introduces students to interactive input and output methods, file input and output, control structures for selection and iteration, assignment statements, math operators.  Students are also introduced to Java data types including basic primitive types (int, long, double, char, Boolean) as well as standard classes (string, math, etc.). Students are required to take tests and write between 30 and 50 independent programming assignments in the semester.

Grade 10-12 | Credits: 2.5

Technology is integrated into all of our lives and, by extension, into virtually all industries and career paths. In this course, students will learn and practice skills in professionalism, customer service, communication, and IT management. In addition, students of all academic levels will be able to gain real-world skills while exploring career paths in IT and customer service. Also, students will gain further appreciation and awareness of the structures, best practices and professional ethics involved in working in IT in increasingly complex and diverse public sector workplaces and private businesses and organizations.