Advanced Programming

Prerequisites: Geometry with A- or better

Final Exam Date: Fri., July 24 (please plan accordingly)

This course helps students develop their computational thinking skills by applying the basic steps in algorithmic problem-solving and abstraction. Students are introduced to software design techniques and then develop a program that embodies their solution. Students learn to use techniques such as inheritance, methods, and recursion to break complex problems down into smaller, more manageable sub-problems. Students not only gain an appreciation of elegant solutions but also experience the thrill of obtaining them.

Students explore virtual worlds (Karel worlds, GridWorld and game boards) while learning object-oriented programming skills such as creating classes, designing and implementing methods, and exploring inheritance. Students expand their programming skills by applying techniques like recursion to solve an adventure puzzle or game.

Advanced Programming is a fast-paced course and is a prerequisite for the student who has an intense interest in computer science and intends to follow up this course with Advanced Placement Computer Science with Data Structures. At completion, successful students are qualified for AP Computer Science A. Qualification for AP Computer Science with Data Structures is subject to the results of the Computer Science Placement Exam. Currently, programming concepts are taught using the Java programming language.

Note: Textbook and laptop required (PC or Mac).

Harker Students: Algebra 2/Trigonometry needs to be completed in grade 8 to be eligible for AP Computer Science.

Course load for summer for-credit programming / advanced programming classes:

• A full semester’s worth of material in 29 class days delivered over four weeks.
• Cover approximately three weeks of material every week of the summer.
• Includes an abundance of program work daily and nightly homework and study time is typically 1 to - 3 hours.
• Students have tests/quizzes two or three times a week.