AP Computer Science Principles Unit Plan Introduction

Course Overview

The AP Computer Science Principles (AP CSP) curriculum is a comprehensive journey through five interconnected Big Ideas that form the foundation of computational thinking and computer science education.

Five Big Ideas

1. Creative Development

   • Exploring collaborative approaches to computing innovations
   • Developing programs with clear purpose and function
   • Understanding program design and implementation

2. Data

   • Understanding digital data representation
   • Processing and analyzing data
   • Exploring data's role in computational problem-solving

3. Algorithms and Programming

   • Designing and implementing computational solutions
   • Developing algorithmic thinking
   • Creating efficient and effective programs

4. Computer Systems and Networks

   • Exploring computing system architecture
   • Understanding network protocols
   • Analyzing computational infrastructure

5. Impact of Computing

   • Examining computing's societal implications
   • Analyzing ethical and cultural dimensions
   • Understanding technology's transformative power

Key Documents

• Course Syllabus: Detailed course structure and expectations
• Exam Overview: Comprehensive exam preparation guide
• Alternative Syllabus: Additional course planning resource

Lesson Progression

Each Big Idea is explored through dedicated lesson plans that progressively build computational thinking skills:

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

Learning Philosophy

This curriculum is designed to:

• Foster computational thinking
• Develop problem-solving skills
• Explore technology's broader implications
• Prepare students for the AP Computer Science Principles exam

By connecting theoretical concepts with practical applications, students will gain a holistic understanding of computer science's role in our evolving digital world.