Unit Plan - Methods and Object-Oriented Programming

Unit Title: Methods and Object-Oriented Programming

Unit Overview:

This unit introduces students to the core concepts of methods and object-oriented programming (OOP) in Java, which are critical for AP Computer Science A. Students will learn how to define and use methods to encapsulate functionality and solve problems efficiently. They will also explore OOP principles, including classes, objects, inheritance, and polymorphism, enabling them to write more modular and reusable code. By the end of this unit, students will be able to apply these concepts to develop complex programs and solve real-world problems.

Unit Duration: 3 weeks

Unit Objectives:

1. Understand the concept of methods and their role in programming.
2. Learn to define, call, and pass parameters to methods.
3. Grasp the basics of object-oriented programming, including classes, objects, inheritance, and polymorphism.
4. Apply OOP principles to solve problems and write efficient code.

Unit Outline:

Week 1: Methods and Parameters

• Lesson 1: Introduction to Methods

  • Define what a method is and explain its role in programming.
  • Write simple methods and call them within a program.

• Lesson 2: Parameters and Return Types

  • Define methods with parameters and return values.
  • Pass parameters to methods and use return values in programs.

• Lesson 3: Method Signatures and Overloading

  • Understand method signatures and overloading.
  • Write methods with different signatures and practice method overloading.

Week 2: Classes and Objects

• Lesson 4: Introduction to Classes and Objects

  • Define classes and objects and their roles in OOP.
  • Create classes, instantiate objects, and access their properties and methods.

• Lesson 5: Access Modifiers and Class Members

  • Understand access modifiers and class members (fields and methods).
  • Write classes with different access modifiers and practice using class members.

• Lesson 6: Constructors and Garbage Collection

  • Understand the role of constructors in object creation and garbage collection.
  • Write classes with constructors and discuss garbage collection.

Week 3: Inheritance and Polymorphism

• Lesson 7: Inheritance

  • Understand inheritance and its benefits.
  • Design class hierarchies and practice using inheritance.

• Lesson 8: Polymorphism

  • Understand polymorphism and its role in OOP.
  • Write classes that demonstrate polymorphism and practice using polymorphic behavior.

• Lesson 9: Abstract Classes and Interfaces

  • Learn about abstract classes and interfaces and their role in OOP.
  • Write abstract classes and interfaces and practice using them.

Assessments:

• Formative Assessments:

  • Code reviews and peer assessments to encourage collaboration and feedback.

• Summative Assessment:

  • A final project where students apply methods and OOP principles to develop a complex program.

Resources:

• College Board's AP Computer Science A Course and Exam Description for guidance and alignment.
• Java textbooks or online tutorials for reference and additional practice.
• Practice problems and exercises from various sources to reinforce learning.

Differentiation:

• Provide additional challenges for advanced students, such as implementing custom sorting algorithms or designing complex class hierarchies.
• Offer extra support and resources for students who need it, such as additional practice problems, one-on-one assistance, or small group sessions.

Reflection and Adjustment:

• Encourage students to reflect on their learning and identify areas for improvement.
• Adjust the pace and content of the unit based on student feedback and performance on assessments.