Thomas, Sini
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- Sandra Day O'Connor High
- AP CSP
-
AP Computer Science Principles (AP CSP) introduces students to the foundational concepts of computer science and programming. This course provides a broad overview of computing and aims to develop students' computational thinking skills through engaging and relevant projects.
Key Topics Covered:
¡ñ Computational Thinking: Understand and apply fundamental algorithms, problem-solving strategies, and
computational models.
¡ñ Programming: Learn the basics of programming using languages like Python or JavaScript. Develop proficiency in
writing, debugging, and testing code.
¡ñ Data Analysis: Explore how data is collected, analyzed, and visualized. Learn about data representation and the
impact of data on decision-making.
¡ñ The Internet: Study the structure and function of the internet, including concepts like protocols, security, and
privacy.
¡ñ Impact of Computing: Examine the societal and ethical implications of computing technology, including issues
related to digital citizenship and the impact of technology on global issues.
Big Ideas: Exam Weighting
Big Idea 1: Creative Development 10–13%
Big Idea 2: Data 17–22%
Big Idea 3: Algorithms and Programming 30–35%
Big Idea 4: Computer Systems and Networks 11–15%
Big Idea 5: Impact of Computing 21–26%
Course Objectives:
¡ñ Increase and diversify participation in computer science
¡ñ Students, regardless of prior experience in computing, will develop confidence using
computer science as a tool to express themselves and solve problems, and this
confidence will prepare them for success in future endeavors in the field of computer
science
¡ñ Students will understand the core principles of computing, a field which has and
continues to change the world
¡ñ Students will be able to develop computational artifacts to solve problems, communicate
ideas, and express their own creativity
¡ñ Students will be able to collaborate with others to solve problems and develop
computational artifacts
¡ñ Students will be able to explain the impact computing has on society, economy, and
culture
¡ñ Students will be able to analyze existing artifacts, identify and correct errors, and explain
how the artifact functions
¡ñ Students will be able to explain how data, information, or knowledge is represented for
computational use
¡ñ Students will be able to explain how abstractions are used in computation and modeling
¡ñ Students will learn to be informed and responsible users of technology