AP Computer Science Principles Syllabus

Course Context

Welcome to AP Computer Science Principles, a comprehensive exploration of computational thinking and computer science fundamentals.

Key Navigation Resources

• Full Course Plan
• Detailed Course Syllabus
• Exam Preparation Guide

Course Framework: Five Big Ideas

1. Creative Development

Collaborative innovation and program design, focusing on:

• Computing project creation
• Collaborative problem-solving
• Innovative technological solutions

2. Data

Exploring data's transformative power through:

• Digital representation techniques
• Data processing strategies
• Insights extraction methodologies

3. Algorithms and Programming

Computational problem-solving via:

• Algorithm design principles
• Programming fundamentals
• Efficient code implementation

4. Computer Systems and Networks

Understanding computational infrastructure:

• System architecture exploration
• Network protocol analysis
• Cybersecurity foundations

5. Impact of Computing

Analyzing technology's societal dimensions:

• Ethical technology considerations
• Computational innovation impacts
• Global technological challenges

Lesson Progression

Dive deep into each Big Idea through structured lessons:

• Creative Development Lessons
• Data Lessons
• Algorithms and Programming Lessons
• Computer Systems and Networks Lessons
• Impact of Computing Lessons

Exam Preparation

Comprehensive preparation for the AP Computer Science Principles Exam:

• Performance task development
• Computational thinking practice
• Innovative solution creation

Learning Outcomes

By course completion, students will:

1. Design innovative computing solutions
2. Apply computational thinking strategies
3. Understand technology's societal implications
4. Develop robust programming skills
5. Prepare for advanced computing studies

Prerequisites

• Basic algebraic understanding
• Curiosity about technological innovation
• Collaborative learning mindset

Philosophy

Empowering students to:

• Think computationally
• Solve complex problems
• Create technological solutions
• Understand computing's broader context

Embark on a transformative journey through the world of computational thinking!