Learn about basic computer operation, variables, and selection statements in Java as you prepare for the AP Computer Science A exam. In this computer science course, you will learn the basics of programming in the Java language, and cover topics relevant to the AP Computer Science A course and exam.
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This course includes a broad view of computer operation, the global impact of computing, and then introduces Java programming concepts including variables, selection and object-oriented design.
This course is for anyone interested in taking a first-level computer-programming course, particularly those who attend a school that does not provide a similar class.
No previous programming knowledge is needed. We are looking forward to helping you explore this exciting new world!
What you'll learn:
- Ethical computing
- Basic computer hardware
- Number representations
- Java program structure
- Simple input / output
- Data types and variables
- Assignment statements
- Primitive types and reference types
- Arithmetic operators
- Math library
- String class and methods
- Integer and Double classes
- Boolean type
- Relational operators
- Selection statements
- Short-circuit operation
- DeMorgan's laws
Course Syllabus
Unit Name or Timeframe: Computer Programming Fundamentals (2 weeks)
- Discussion of the objectives of good programmers (correctness, design, style, efficiency)
- Problem solving and computer science
- The ethics of computer use, social networking, and engineering for the greater good.
- Computer hardware and memory
- Number representations and conversions
- Overflow and underflow
- Introduction to Java IDE and debugger (DrJava, IntelliJ)
- Building a first Java class and simple program
- The main method
- I/O in Java
Unit Name or Timeframe: Primitive data types, variables, arithmetic (2 weeks)
- Data types and variables
- Constants
- ASCII and Unicode representation of characters
- Assignment
- Primitive types vs reference types
- Binary arithmetic operators
- Static methods and the Math class
- String class and functions
- Wrapper classes for integer and double type
Unit Name or Timeframe: Selection (2 weeks)
- Boolean type
- Relational operators
- Selection statements (if, else, else-if, switch)
- Short-circuit execution
- Code blocks
- Dangling else
- Compound relational operators and truth tables
- DeMorgan’s Laws
