AP Computer Science A

On-Line for 2010-2011 School Year (Class Full)

Teacher: Cynthia Lang

Texts Required:

Introduction to Computer Science Using Java. Java 5 edition. Bradley Kjell. (available free online at http://chortle.ccsu.edu/CS151/cs151java.html).
Barron’s AP Computer Science A. Roselyn Teukolsky. Latest edition. Cost about $14.

Technical Requirements:

Computer, high-speed internet access, e-mail & AIM capability
Programming Environment
The Java environment that we will be using is developed especially for computer science teaching by Rice University and is called DrJava. You can visit the website at www.drjava.org to download the latest build. And best of all, it’s free. Prior to downloading DrJava, you must install the most recent Java Development Kit (JDK). You can find that at http://java.sun.com.

Who Should Apply: The necessary prerequisites for entering the AP Computer Science A course include a completion of Algebra II with B or better and experience in problem solving. A student in the AP Computer Science A course should be comfortable with functions and the concepts found in the uses of functional notation. Previous computer programming experience is not required. Prospective students should be ready to commit at least 6 hours working alone on the computer in addition to attending a 90-minute “live” online session with the teacher each week. The live session is scheduled based on the availability of the class members.

Course Fee: $650

Course Description: This course prepares students for the AP Computer Science A Exam. Object-oriented programming methodology with a concentration on problem solving and algorithm development is emphasized. Students will read, answer questions, take quizzes, and most importantly, design, code, document and test Java programs. In addition, a case study developed by the College Board that highlights the capabilities and implications of object-oriented program design is integrated into the curriculum. Throughout the year, AP-style questions are practiced. However, starting in March, the emphasis in the class shifts completely toward preparation for the AP Exam, which is administered in May.

As a member of this class, you will be part of an online community. You will be interacting with your classmates and the teacher through “live” class sessions conducted through AIM. Also, through an online forum, you will post any questions you may have about the software, reading material or the homework assignments, answer each other’s questions, discuss computer science topics, and upload homework. We will also have some team activities during the year. Students typically enjoy this peer interaction, and full participation will help you to stay engaged in the course.

Computer science graduates are in high demand and receive correspondingly high salaries in the workplace. Perhaps through this class, you will decide this is the career for you. A side benefit to studying computer science is that it has been shown to boost SAT Math scores. Also, taking demanding, rigorous coursework in high school correlates with college success. If you enjoy solving puzzles and problems, you will enjoy computer programming.

Instructor Qualifications: I have an MSChE from University of Maryland and am a licensed Professional Engineer. I have taught in the engineering department of Penn State Abington for 20 years, where I also coach teams of students in robotic competitions. I have completed the National Science Foundation’s TeachJava training in residence at Rice University as well as two online workshops for the AP Computer Science Case Study offered through Georgia Tech. This will be my fourth time teaching AP Computer Science for PA Homeschoolers. I have three formerly homeschooled children, all now in college and graduate school.

Click here to read class reviews from former participants in this class

Return to the PA HOMESCHOOLERS® Home Page
Return to the AP Internet Classes Home Page