High AP Computer Science A
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Number of Credits
1
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Estimated Completion Time
2 Semesters
Pre Requisites
Algebra 1 required. Algebra 2 and prior programming experience (i.e. Foundations of Programming) recommended.
Description
Please note: While you may register for this course, the earliest start date for this course will be July 17, 2025.
The AP Computer Science A course is equivalent to the first semester of a college-level computer science course. The course involves developing the skills to write programs or parts of programs to solve specific problems using the Java programming language. AP® Computer Science A also emphasizes design issues that make programs understandable, adaptable, and, when appropriate, reusable. At the same time, the development of useful computer programs and classes is used as a context for introducing other important concepts in computer science, including developing and analyzing algorithms, developing and using fundamental data structures, and studying standard algorithms and typical applications. In addition, an understanding of computer systems' basic hardware and software components and the responsible use of these systems are integral parts of the course.
Access the site link below to view the standards from the Florida Department of Education:
Course description: http://www.cpalms.org/Public/PreviewCourse/Preview/1966
Access the site link below to view the course description from the College Board:
https://apstudent.collegeboard.org/apcourse/ap-computer-science-a
Note: This course also provides a math credit.
Segment 1:
• Variables and Expressions
• Strings and User Input
• Condition Statements
• Arrays: one and two -dimensional
• Loops
• Methods
• Introduction to OOP and Classes
• Simple Objects
• Computer Systems and History
Segment 2:
• Technology and Society
• Recursion
• Inheritance & Polymorphism
• Classes Revisited
• Abstraction & Interfaces
• Standard Algorithms to manipulate Arrays
• Sorting Algorithms
• Searching Algorithms
• Program Analysis & Exceptions
Besides engaging students in challenging curriculum, the course guides students to reflect on their learning and evaluate their progress through a variety of assessments. Assessments can be in the form of practice lessons, multiple choice questions, writing assignments, projects, research papers, oral assessments, and discussions. This course will use the state-approved grading scale. Each course contains a mandatory final exam or culminating project that will be weighted at 20% of the student’s overall grade.***
***Proctored exams can be requested by FLVS at any time and for any reason in an effort to ensure academic integrity. When taking the exam to assess a student’s integrity, the exam must be passed with at least a 59.5% in order to earn credit for the course.
Advanced Placement Policy
Students entering high school grades 9-12 have access to Advanced Placement courses that may result in earning college credit for high school coursework. These courses are used to calculate overall Grade Point Average (GPA) and typically count extra in the calculation. These courses are also available at no charge to Florida public school students, whereas they may have a tuition cost if taken in college. (S. 1003.02, F.S.)
A passing grade in the course will be accepted for high school credit. Postsecondary institutions determine college credit awarded, based on the AP Exam score earned. FLVS strongly encourages students who take AP courses to sit for the course AP Exam in May. Florida students shall be exempt from payment of any fees associated with AP Exam participation, with the exception of late test registration fees incurred by the student.
Courses subject to availability.
Pursuant to s. 1002.20, F.S.; A public school student whose parent makes written request to the school principal shall be exempted from the teaching of reproductive health or any disease, including HIV/AIDS, in accordance with the provisions of s. 1003.42(3). Learn more about the process and which courses contain subject matter where an exemption request can be made.
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