COMPUTER SCIENCE
Using computational thinking strategies to build algorithms and solve real-world problems through the creation of efficient computer programs that aim to automate and/or improve the world in which we live.
Compute.
Students develop foundational computational thinking skills to decompose problems, identify patterns, use abstraction, and write algorithms in block coding, Python, and Java programming languages. |
Innovate.
Students design computer applications and programs to be creators of the technology that will automate and improve our future world. |
Collaborate.
Students incorporate diverse and inclusive perspectives through communication and collaboration in order to develop technological solutions to socially impactful problems. |
2024-2025 COURSE OFFERINGS
Computer Science Essentials CP/Honors 1 Credit Grades 9-12
Are you interested in collaborating with classmates to create mobile apps? Would you like to solve problems and create value for others through innovation and creativity? Join this course to explore how innovations in computing impact and connect our world. With a gentle introduction to programming, you will learn how to put your designs into practice. Whether these are your first steps in computer science, or a continuation of your journey, Computer Science Essentials will give you confidence to succeed today and beyond.
Intro to Python Programming CP/Honors 1 credit Grades 10-12
Join us in this year-long course to learn the ins and outs of computer programming using the Python 3 language. Python is a popular scripting language that is commonly used for a myriad of applications including machine learning, scientific computing, scripting, web applications and data processing. Course topics will include programming fundamentals such as Boolean Logic, program organization, input and output, as well as loops. By the end of this course, students will build a console-based game and learn concepts equivalent to that of a college-level, semester-long course in Python Programming. Prerequisite: Computer Science Essentials or previous computer science experience.
Advanced Placement Computer Science A AP 1 credit Grades 11-12
Do you ever wonder about the people who write their own phone apps or write their own mods for video games to get their skills? They all learned to write code - the primary goal of this class. AP Computer Science is a comprehensive programming course using the computer language - JAVA. This course is an excellent foundation for students planning to study technical fields, engineering, physics and many other areas that require a computer science course in their curriculum. In addition, it is an excellent opportunity to develop sound problem solving and logical thinking skills. The emphasis of the course is to study object-oriented programming methodology, algorithm development, data structures, design and abstraction. Throughout the course students will develop solutions to programming problems in a variety of application areas as well as work with a large case study program that will demonstrate the concepts of computer programming. Prerequisite: Computer Science Essentials
Computer Science Independent Study Honors 1 credit Grade 12
Is there more you want to explore in the world of computer science? Maybe you want to build a robot or learn a new language? Students will design their own curriculum to further their knowledge in some aspect of computer science. They may choose to use an already developed curriculum online such as Harvard University CS50 course or create their own learning plan. Students may choose a focus in the area of computer science they are interested in - algorithms, learning new languages, robotics, etc. Students should successfully complete AP Computer Science A and speak with Mr. Cochran prior to enrolling in this course.
*NEW* Computer Science Principles Honors/AP 1 credit Grades 10-12
Interested in learning how to express your creativity through code? Curious about how computing innovations impact our lives and the world around us? Students in this course will have the opportunity to use abstraction and algorithmic thinking to solve problems and create value for others, develop, analyze, implement, and test programs developed for a purpose, and learn to uncover patterns in data, protect data, and explore how the internet connects the world in which we live. Computer Science Principles students learn the fundamentals of coding, data processing, data security, and automating tasks while learning to contribute to an inclusive, safe, and ethical computing culture. Prerequisite: Computer Science Essentials
*NEW* Cybersecurity CP/Honors 1 credit Grades 10-12
Ever wonder how experts identify cybersecurity threats and protect against them? Curious about learning ways to detect intrusions and respond to attacks? Want to know how to examine your own digital footprint and better defend your own personal data? Whether seeking a career in the emerging field of cybersecurity or learning to defend their own personal data or a company’s data, students in Cybersecurity will establish an ethical code of conduct while learning the skills necessary to defend data in today’s complex cyberworld. Prerequisite: Computer Science Essentials