Beginning Programming

Computer Science Pathway:
Computing in the Modern World, Beginning Programming, Intermediate Programming (pre-AP/IB)

Suggested AP/IB Course Sequence:
CitMW, Beginning Prog, Int. Prog (pre-AP/IB), AP or IB CS, Int. Prog (Adv Topics)

Course Description:

Beginning Programming is an introduction to programming using the Java programming language (the programming language used in the higher level AP and IB CS courses) and the programming environment Greenfoot. Greenfoot provides a framework for programs to use animated graphics, sounds, keyboard input, and mouse input, allowing even a first-time programmer to create interesting and complex video games and simulations.

Students start the year off exploring programming concepts and Greenfoot capabilities by following "cookbook" style examples from the textbook. Based on these examples, students are encouraged to explore new possibilities, take risks with new designs, and be creative. Assignments will always have minimum tasks that students are expected to perform to demonstrate mastery of the concepts being covered, but extensions and creativity are always encouraged.

Co-curricular with TSA and FBLA:

Beginning Programming is a co-curricular course with the student organizations TSA (Technology Student Association) and FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America), since both organizations have competitive programming categories. Students are encouraged to join one or both of these fine student groups, and accomodations are made with students on deadlines and assignments for those students who want to make use of class time to work on competition entries (as long as those entries are programmed using Greenfoot).

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Resources

Textbook:
Greenfoot textbook

US edition
ISBN-10: 0-13-603753-4
ISBN-13: 978-0-13-603753-8

We will use this book for reading and programming assignments in class. If students want to have their own copy of the book, they can find it from any on-line bookseller.

Greenfoot.org:

This web site provides a number of resources that can help the student throughout the course. In particular, you can download the Greenfoot software to install on your own computer and be able to work on programs away from the lab. Students are encouraged to create their user accounts so they can participate in discussions and publish their scenarios.