MichiganMan7

From my school's course catalog:


Computer Programming I is designed for all students interested in attaining the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in our computerized, digitized, and programmable world. This introductory programming course will include the basic concepts of pro-gram development. It will be an introduction to the design, implementation, and understanding of computer programs. Students will write computer code in a logical, structured, and organized manner using the techniques and methods they learn. Computer Programming I will teach students to use a variety of different resources to implement and deploy a solution while learning to deal with real-world constraints. Students will learn the core principles of computer programming using the user-friendly language of Python. By using this computer language students will learn logical reasoning, algorithmic thinking, and structured problem solving.

Computer Programming II is designed for all students interested in attaining the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed and compete in our computerized, digitized, and programmable world. Computer Programming II is a continuation of Computer Pro-gramming I. In this class students will build on the foundation they developed in the previous course. Students will use the core skills attained in Computer Programming I to advance their programming careers. In this course students will continue to use the Python language and focus on advanced concepts such as object-oriented programming, graphical user interface development, and sound/animation/game development. Students will continue to learn logical reasoning, algorithmic thinking, and structured problem solving.

Will these two courses taken together prepare me adequately for the computer science exam? Is there other stuff that I'd need to self study? My school doesn't offer ap comp sci, that's why i'm looking for the next best option.

I also forgot to mention that there's a mistake in the second description. After emailing my teacher, I realized that the second course will focus on Java programming, not python.

MichiganMan7

Bump (plz)

Niceboat

I'm not sure how APCS relevant the course are.

According to the description"object-oriented programming, graphical user interface development, and sound/animation/game development."

APCS does not test on gui or sound/animation/game development at all.

"Learn logical reasoning, algorithmic thinking, and structured problem solving."

This part seems more relevant. However, I don't think those courses by itself will be enough for the APCS.


I do recommend this book. Amazon.com: Barron's AP Computer Science A (9780764143731): Roselyn Teukolsky M.S.: Books

It's really good. I think if you prep with this book+ focus on the APCS relevant part of those courses then you should be good to go.

FastNeutrino

Well I believe AP Computer Science uses Java, so you'll need to learn new syntax if you just do Python in both classes. As far as what exactly you do with Java, I'm not sure, as I haven't actually taken the class. However, I'd take the above posters advice, and use a book to help prep for the test.

Techhexium

Yes it will. APCS tests mostly while and for loops and objected-oriented programming. You should buy Barrons and check the course description because you will need to learn how the test works.

Eric621

I took the APCS test in May without taking any CS classes at school. I read the Barron's book once through, and took one test. I got a 5. If you have any programming experience already, you should be ok. Otherwise, you may have some work to do. In any case, the book is a very worthwhile investment.

MichiganMan7

How much prep is recommended to get a 5?