Course Description

Computer science embraces problem solving, hardware, algorithms, and perspectives that help people utilize computers to address real-world problems in contemporary life. The course underscores the importance of communicating solutions appropriately and in ways that are relevant to current societal needs.

AP Computer Science A (a one semester course) is equivalent to a first-semester, college-level course in computer science. The course introduces students to computer science with fundamental topics that include problem solving, design strategies and methodologies, organization of data (data structures), approaches to processing data (algorithms), analysis of potential solutions, and the ethical and social implications of computing. The course emphasizes both object-oriented and imperative problem solving and design using the Java language. These techniques represent proven approaches for developing solutions that can scale up from small, simple problems to large, complex problems. The AP Computer Science course curriculum is compatible with many CS1 courses in colleges and universities.

Prerequisite Requirements

Students should have a working knowledge of basic English and algebra. Students should be comfortable with functions and the concepts found in the uses of function notation, such as f(x) = x + 2 and f (x) = g(h(x)). It is important that students and their parents understand that any significant computer science course builds upon a foundation of mathematical reasoning that should be acquired before attempting such a course. Applicants must have successfully completed Advanced Algebra or higher. Students must also have a recommendation from their most recent math teacher.

The AP Computer Science course must include a minimum of 20 hours of hands-on structured lab experiences to engage students in individual or group problem- solving. Thus, each AP Computer Science A course must include a substantial laboratory component in which students design solutions to problems, express their solutions precisely, test their solutions, identify and correct errors (when mistakes occur), and compare possible solutions.

The AP Computer Science A course requires that solutions of problems be written in the Java programming language. Because the Java programming language is extensive with far more features than could be covered in a single introductory course, the AP Computer Science A Exam covers a subset of Java. Students enrolled in this course will spend time in both a regular classroom setting and a computer lab setting during the semester.

Instructor: Don Wisdom (dwisdom@walton.k12.ga.us)

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I have read and understand the prerequisites and requirements above.

Student Name (please print):

Current Grade Level: 10 11 ID#:

List all high school math courses completed, including current math course:

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  Student should have strong algebraic skills;
  
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  Student should have strong problem-solving skills;
  
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  Student should have strong English communication skills;
  
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  Student should have a good work ethic.
  

[ ] Recommended for AP Computer Science [ ] Not Recommended

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Course Taught this Student:

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Walton County School District
Advanced Placement Program Student Contract

Note: A separate agreement must be signed and submitted for each AP course a student takes.

Date: ____________

Student Name:

AP Course:

Parent/Guardian Name:

Parent/Guardian Phone Number:

Parent/Guardian Email Address:

You have indicated an interest in registering for one or more Advanced Placement (AP) courses during the upcoming school year. Taking an AP course and exam is a collaborative effort between you, the student, your parent/guardian, your teacher(s), and the school. Each party plays a role and must make the commitment to meet the expectations noted below.

I, ____________________ (student), agree to the conditions outlined above. I understand that once I have registered for an AP course, I am obligated to take that course. I understand that once the registration process has been completed, I am obligated to take the AP course(s) which I have chosen. I understand that I am the primary party responsible for completion of AP assignments and obtaining tutoring and additional academic assistance should I fall behind or have concerns with understanding and completing assignments. I understand that I am expected to meet all AP deadlines on time, as well. I understand that, in the case of a year-long AP course, should my grade fall below 70% in that course at the end of the first semester, I will be removed from the AP course and placed in a second-semester, college-preparatory course with equivalent curriculum.

I, _________________, (parent/guardian) agree to the conditions outlined above. I understand that, in the case of a year-long AP course, should my student’s grade fall below 70% in that course at the end of the first semester, my student will be removed from the AP course and placed in a second-semester, college-preparatory course with equivalent curriculum. I understand that once the registration process has been completed, my student is obligated to take the AP course(s) which he/she has chosen. I understand that the AP Exam fee will be determined in the Spring for all tests in addition to the first test that my student requests to take (cost of first test is covered by the school), at least two months in advance of the testing date. I understand that once a test has been ordered, I am monetarily responsible for the expense of the test, should my student choose not to take the test on the day of the exam. I understand that no late tests will be ordered or made available to students except in cases of documentable emergency. A note from a parent will not be considered valid documentation for the ordering and administering of a late exam, and direct parental contact with the program administrator will be required. Should a late test be required for my student, I understand that I am monetarily responsible for the late test fee.

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