Advanced Placement Computer Science A

 

AP Computer Science A 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 Java language. These techniques represent proven approaches for developing solutions that can scale up from small, simple problems to large, complex problems.

Lab Requirement: The AP Computer Science A course must include a minimum of 20 hours of hands-on structured lab experiences to engage students in individual or group problem solving. During the laboratory component students will design solutions to problems, express their solutions precisely (e.g., in the Java programming language), test their solutions, identify and correct errors (when mistakes occur), and compare possible solutions. Computer Language 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. The AP Computer Science A course curriculum is compatible with many CS1 courses in colleges and universities.

Note: This is a full year course, and cannot be dropped mid-year. In addition to earning Townsend Harris credit, students scoring 3 or higher on the required Advanced Placement exam in May may be awarded college credit. There is a $91 examination fee (which may be partially waived in cases of documented financial need).

 

 

There are several routes through which students can enroll in Advanced Placement Computer Science A:

 

1. Earning an 85% in the Introduction to Computer Science (MKS21HC) 
2. Students who have not taken MKS21HC must meet one of the following criteria.

• Students must have successfully completed Common Core Algebra I with a grade of at least 90% in the course and on the Regents, or
• Students must have successfully completed Common Core Geometry with a grade of at least 88% in the course and on the Regents, or
• Students must have successfully completed Common Core Algebra II with a grade of at least 85% in the course and on the Regents

 

Note: The students who have completed MKS21HC-MKS22HC will be given preferential placement in this course.