As we’ve been constantly reminded over the last several years, the influence of technology can and does progress into every aspect of life, making it imperative to understand the software behind this digital revolution.
AP Computer Science educates students on how to program in Java, supplying invaluable talents for an increasingly sophisticated world. Whether pursuing a career in the growing field of software development or not, the critical thinking and logic skills emphasized by the course are empowering traits.
Within the coding classroom, adjacent desks in horizontal rows orient toward a Smart Board at the front of the class, which exhibits a teacher’s material. The daily workflow is a half-hour presentation introducing new subjects for note-taking, which are then interacted with through textbook programming exercises occupying the remainder of the class and continuing into homework. The class size is capped at fifteen students, creating a uniquely close-knit environment that encourages peer and teacher collaboration.
As an AP class, at least five hours of preparation outside of the classroom are required a week — though often this demand is lower. After the course’s conclusion in May, students are required to take a forty multiple-choice and four open-response question test administered by The College Board.
The unfamiliar subject of Computer Science, a foreboding tag of Advanced Placement, and an assumption that a rigorous proficiency in mathematics is needed may add up and dissuade aspiring coders from taking the course. However, these are misguided concerns. Comp Sci is taught by Tara Blake, who profiled a successful student as, “Not necessarily exceptionally strong at math, but a student who is skilled at humanities or writing persuasive argument essays, good at attention to detail, and really good at reading comprehension. Also, somebody who’s creative and can think outside the box.”
Senior Comp Sci student Brayden Lawler recommends others take the class, stating “It’s an interesting subject to learn and surprisingly easy for an AP”
Similarly, sophomore Shlok Patel claimed, “AP Computer Science is a calm class that tests my reasoning in an involving way. I’d suggest it to anyone.”
To enter the course, a student must receive at least an A-minus in the honors intro class taught by Ms. Sassorossi or receive high marks in an entrance exam arranged through Mr. Jewett, the mathematics director. For additional information on computer programming, reach out to either Ms. Sassorossi or Mr. Jewett or talk to guidance for more course information.
