Description and Objectives

This course broadly explores computer science and how one can use Java to solve problems. It will cover all the material covered on the AP CS A exam.

Goals for Student Learning

• The student will become a proficient Java programmer.
• An appropriate imagination for using programming in one’s life.
• An understanding of the complexity and breadth of computer systems.
• The student will be well prepared for the AP CS A exam.

Grading Rubric

Grades are a count of all points. There are 4 point reading quizzes, 10 point homework assignments, and 25 point quarter tests. There are quizzes at the end of every subsection that use reading quiz questions, with minor changes.

Schedule, per semester

1. First Semester
   1. Elements of Programming
   2. Functions and Modules
2. Second Semester
   1. Object Oriented Programming
   2. Algorithms and Data Structures

Textbooks

Introduction to Programming in Java (2nd Edition) – An Interdisciplinary Approach
by Robert Sedgewick & Kevin Wayne
https://introcs.cs.princeton.edu/java/home/

Course Requirements

• Students are expected to complete all assignments before class. If an assignment is late, it will receive at most half credit. If extraordinary circumstances require an extension, this will be handled on a case by case basis.
• Students are required to follow all assignment instructions. If they are turning in a code sample, the code must run. If it does not run, it will not receive any credit.
• Students must tell Mr. Beatty if they are going to miss a class, and it the sole responsibility of the student to find out what he missed, including but not limited to notes, homework assignments, quizzes, and tests. Homework must still be turned in on time, and makeup quizzes and tests must be scheduled by the student.

Successful Students

Success in this class comes from showing up and doing whats required. I tend to view programming projects more as an opportunity to practice, even if the complete solution is done. It’s better to turn in something incomplete rather than nothing at all. Programming is often very frustrating, but even more so, very rewarding. This class requires patience to work through a problem, and not run immediately to another student or the internet for an answer.

Additional Resources

Replit.com Account, set up in class.