AP Computer Science A
Brief Class Overview Teacher: Mr. Hurray
Period: 1
Contact: email – mhurray@ucfsd.org
→ please use email to set up phone conversations
Rules: Classroom rules set the boundaries for learning. They will be adhered to with no exception. Day-to-day rules will be developed within the class as the environment of the class is established, but there are a few specific rules to note:
1) Tardiness – Mr. Hurray takes attendance when the bell rings at 7:35. If you are not inside of the classroom by this time, you must go to the main office to get a pass.
2) Food – absolutely no food in the computer labs. Throw away all breakfast items in the hallway before you enter. Any food found in class will be thrown away immediately.
3) Electronic Devices (cellphones, iPods, etc) – these are not permitted in class. Use will result in consequences.
4) Backpacks – must remain on ground and out of walking paths
Topics: This is the first year of AP Computer Science A at Unionville High School, so changes may take place during the year. By the end of this class, you can expect to have covered:
References: AP Computer Science A uses the Java programming language. It highly recommended to have the Java Development Kit from Sun and a development environment on your home computer. These will enable you to compile and run code outside of school. The CollegeBoard requires having access to a computing environment outside of class for a minimum of 3 hours a week.
To equip your home computer to compile and run Java code:
1) Go to: http://java.sun.com/javase/downloads/index.jsp and download the JDK at the top of the page. You must run the executable file before moving on to step 2.
2) Go to http://www.jgrasp.org , find the downloads page and download the latest build of the program. This is the program you will use to write and compile code.
e-mail questions to Mr. Hurray as needed
Books we will be using:
AP Computer Science A & AB: Object-Orientated Programming and Data Structures by Maria and Gary Litvin from Skylight Publishing
A Gentle Introduction to the Art of Programming in Java by Bergin et al from Cafepress
Grading: Grades include homework, participation, quizzes, tests, and projects. An emphasis will be placed on projects and tests.
AP Test: On Tuesday, May 6th, the AP test will be given for AP Computer Science A. More information will be given about signing up, helpful references, etc. For all AP courses, it is highly recommended that the test be taken in conjunction with the class.
Extra help: Mr. Hurray will be in the computer lab at 7a.m. every morning. Reaching him after school will be a problem with his coaching schedule, so come in early for help. Additional extra help can be scheduled with Mr. Hurray.
Brief Class Overview Teacher: Mr. Hurray
Period: 1
Contact: email – mhurray@ucfsd.org
→ please use email to set up phone conversations
Rules: Classroom rules set the boundaries for learning. They will be adhered to with no exception. Day-to-day rules will be developed within the class as the environment of the class is established, but there are a few specific rules to note:
1) Tardiness – Mr. Hurray takes attendance when the bell rings at 7:35. If you are not inside of the classroom by this time, you must go to the main office to get a pass.
2) Food – absolutely no food in the computer labs. Throw away all breakfast items in the hallway before you enter. Any food found in class will be thrown away immediately.
3) Electronic Devices (cellphones, iPods, etc) – these are not permitted in class. Use will result in consequences.
4) Backpacks – must remain on ground and out of walking paths
Topics: This is the first year of AP Computer Science A at Unionville High School, so changes may take place during the year. By the end of this class, you can expect to have covered:
• Java syntax
• Iterations
• Conditionals
• Primitive Data-Types
• Booleans • Arrays
• Recursion
• Search
• Sort
• Strings • GridWorld AP case study
• Graphics
• Robust Object-Orientated Programming
References: AP Computer Science A uses the Java programming language. It highly recommended to have the Java Development Kit from Sun and a development environment on your home computer. These will enable you to compile and run code outside of school. The CollegeBoard requires having access to a computing environment outside of class for a minimum of 3 hours a week.
To equip your home computer to compile and run Java code:
1) Go to: http://java.sun.com/javase/downloads/index.jsp and download the JDK at the top of the page. You must run the executable file before moving on to step 2.
2) Go to http://www.jgrasp.org , find the downloads page and download the latest build of the program. This is the program you will use to write and compile code.
e-mail questions to Mr. Hurray as needed
Books we will be using:
AP Computer Science A & AB: Object-Orientated Programming and Data Structures by Maria and Gary Litvin from Skylight Publishing
A Gentle Introduction to the Art of Programming in Java by Bergin et al from Cafepress
Grading: Grades include homework, participation, quizzes, tests, and projects. An emphasis will be placed on projects and tests.
AP Test: On Tuesday, May 6th, the AP test will be given for AP Computer Science A. More information will be given about signing up, helpful references, etc. For all AP courses, it is highly recommended that the test be taken in conjunction with the class.
Extra help: Mr. Hurray will be in the computer lab at 7a.m. every morning. Reaching him after school will be a problem with his coaching schedule, so come in early for help. Additional extra help can be scheduled with Mr. Hurray.