Intro to Java Programming (AP CSA Aligned)

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Intro to Java Programming (AP CSA Aligned) Class

Introduction to Java that also maps to AP Computer Science Java (APCSA) requirements.

Grades 6-12
2-6 students group class
90 minutes per session
Live online class

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APCSA Course

This rigorous Java class introduces students to software engineering and object-oriented programming and design using the Java programming language. This curriculum covers a broad range of topics, including the design of solutions to problems, the use of data structures to organize large sets of data, the development and implementation of algorithms to process data and discover new information, the analysis of potential solutions, and the ethical and social implications of computing systems.

The class will also thoroughly prepare students for the AP CSA exams offered by the College Board. In the last 10 year, the number of highschool/middle school students taking the AP CSA exam has grown almost 900%, by far, the fastest growing AP exam. It is a strong indicator of growing interests in Computer Science.

Our AP CSA class uses code.org APCSA curriculum because it is certified by College Board. This is the very first time we are using a 3rd party curriculum. The Lead Curriculum Developer at code.org for APCSA is in fact Teacher Jamila, who also works with us on curriculum. Having worked with Jamila extensively, we know she is not only an expert on teaching Java, but also very much aligned with us on principles of creativity, project based learning, and making real world connections in CS learning. We can't wait to start this great program with your child.

Part 1 includes 24 hours of instructions. Depending on time of the year, we might run them as 2 hour sessions (12 sessions total) or 1.5 hour sessions (16 sessions total) to fit into the AP CSA exam schedule.

Part 1 - Intro to Java Programming (AP CSA Aligned) - Part I(Enroll)

In Part I, students will complete 16 sessions of 90 min classes covering Object-Oriented Programming, Class Structure and Design, Arrays and Algorithms, Conditions and Logic, and Two-Dimensional Arrays. Here are the highlights: Object-Oriented Programming - Learn fundamental Java concepts, discover their identity as software engineers, and use debugging strategies and code reviews to improve their programming skills. Class Structure and Design - Students develop an understanding of data encapsulation and object-oriented design decisions. Arrays and Algorithms - Students use one-dimensional (1D) arrays to store lists of primitive values and object references. Conditions and Logic - Students improve decision-making in their programs using relational and logical operators to evaluate primitive values and object references and use the Math class to perform calculations and generate random numbers.

Part 2 - Intro to Java Programming (AP CSA Aligned) - Part II(Enroll)
Part II includes another 16 sessions of 90min classes. Students will finish the entire set of content as required by College Board for AP CSA exam. Some highlights of the content include - Two-Dimensional Arrays - Students use two-dimensional (2D) arrays to expand storage and organization capabilities in their programs, static methods and the Math class, creating image filters, arrayLists and algorithms, working with strings, as well as basic natural language processing techniques.

Part 3 - AP CSA Test Prep(Enroll)
This course offers a thorough review of all the areas required by AP CSA exam, such as data types, objects, iteration, classes, array, 2D array, inheritance, and recursion. We will also go through format and strategies for every section of the exam. Using problem samples from past AP CSA exams, students will get to enforce what they have learned and practice test strategies to achieve the best score. The course is fully aligned with the latest College Board standards for AP Computer Science A.
Note that this class is for students who have already learned AP CSA materials or equivalent previously. The goal is to get students familiar with AP CSA test format and have more opportunities to practice what they have learned. If you are interested in taking AP CSA classes or learning Java programming language, check out Part I and II of our AP CSA course, which are offered throughout the year.
We run this test prep class only from Jan - April each year before the May AP exams.

$1254 (32 Sessions)
15 class pack credits

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FAQ About AP CSA and Intro to Java Class

Q: What is AP CSA?

Advanced Placement (AP) Computer Science A (also known as APCSA, AP Computer Science Applications, or AP Java) https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/courses/ap-computer-science-a is an AP Computer Science course and examination offered by the College Board to high school students as an opportunity to earn college credit for a college-level computer science course. AP Computer Science A is meant to be the equivalent of a first-semester course in computer science. The AP exam currently tests students on their knowledge of Java.

Q: What are the differences between AP CSA and AP CSP

AP CSA and AP CSP (Computer Science Principles) are the two Computer Science related AP tests offered by the College Board. The two cover complementary content. Most people feel CSA is harder and many students take CSP first and then CSA.

The AP Computer Science A course and exam focus on learning Java programming language to solve problems.

The AP Computer Science focuses on the broader aspects of computing. AP CSP exam has two parts, coding and fundamental CS knowledge. AP CSP Coding can use a variety of languages, e.g. Scratch, App Inventor, and Python (our recommendation), etc. Students also learn computing systems including the internet work, explore the potential impacts of these innovations, and contribute to a computing culture that is collaborative and ethical.

Lastly, the AP Exams for the two courses have different formats. AP Computer Science A has one end-of-course exam with multiple-choice and free-response questions. AP Computer Science Principles includes the Create performance task, which is completed during the course, and an end-of-course multiple-choice exam.

Whether your child is interested in AP CSP or AP CSA, or both, we recommend learning Python first to set a strong coding foundation.

Q: Can middle school students take AP exams?

A: Even though most students that take AP exams are high school students, middle school students can take the exams as well. You do need to find a location that can administer the exam for you. The most convenient option is likely your local high schools (public or private). In some cities, private test prep centers also offer the exams, likely at a higher cost than schools.

Q: My child's school offers AP CS classes in 11th grade. Is there a benefit of doing it earlier?

A: The answer to this question has a lot to do with your child's overall college and career goals. If s/he is interested in STEM, especially a computer science related major in college, they might want to demonstrate their interest and passion by doing it earlier. There are also a wide range of summer programs offered by colleges for high school students in various areas, and having done AP CS could help your student get into those programs. Some students also look for CS related internships during high school, and passing APCSA demonstrates their ability. Lastly, this also saves their AP Courses for other subjects at school, and/or empowers them to take even more advanced CS courses in 11th grade.