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AP Computer Science Principles

Course Overview

AP Computer Science Principles introduces students to the breadth of the field of computer science. In this course, students will learn to design and evaluate solutions and to apply computer science to solve problems through the development of algorithms and programs. They will incorporate abstraction into programs and use data to discover new knowledge. Students will also explain how computing innovations and computing systems, including the Internet, work, explore their potential impacts, and contribute to a computing culture that is collaborative and ethical. (Source: AP® Computer Science Principles)

Expectations & Support

It is recommended that students in the AP Computer Science Principles course have successfully completed a first-year high school algebra course with a strong foundation of basic linear functions, composition of functions, and problem-solving strategies that require multiple approaches and collaborative efforts. In addition, students should be able to use a Cartesian (x,y) coordinate system to represent points on a plane. It is important that students understand that any significant computer science course builds upon a foundation of mathematical reasoning that should be acquired before attempting such a course. Prior computer science experience is not required to take this course.

Support is provided through:

  • Whole group instruction and discussion
  • Collaborative practice
  • Regular sub-topic progress checks

Exams & Assessment

  • Classroom tests, midterm, and final exam aligned with AP topics & format
  • AP Progress Checks aligned to AP Units
  • Classroom performance tasks aligned with AP Create Performance Task expectations
  • AP Portfolio Create Performance Task (due at the end of April)
  • AP Exam in May

Materials & Resources

  • AP Classroom
  • Code.org AP Computer Science Principles Curriculum
  • FCPS Chromebook

Time Commitment

Computational and Algorithmic thinking is a habit of mind trained and strengthened through daily practice and effort. While time may vary from student to student, a student can expect to spend about 3 hours of work outside of class per week to develop and maintain their mathematical growth.