Welcome to the Computer Science classes Mrs. Whitlock AP night Chattahoochee High School

Mrs. Pam Whitlock  Certified Business teacher  CS Endorsement from Southern Polytechnic State University/Kennesaw State University  Business owner  Mother of four children  2 have graduated from Chattahoochee  1 currently at Chattahoochee  1 currently at Taylor Road Middle Mrs. Whitlock and her daughter

Next year, we will offer two AP computer classes at Chattahoochee:  AP Computer Science A  AP Computer Science Principles (new next year)

What’s the difference between AP Computer Science A and AP Computer Science Principles?

AP Computer Science A  Traditional, in-depth Java programming class  Course has three areas of focus  Learning the Java language  Problem solving and algorithms  Program design: What’s the best way to turn my algorithm into code to solve a problem?  We bring traditional Java programming to life with fun, hands on activities and lots of lab time.  The course starts at a beginning level and increases in rigor and pace throughout the year.  Upon completion of the course, students can expect to be competent Java programmers.  AP exam in May is 50% multiple choice and 50% FRQ.

AP Computer Science Principles  2016 – 2017 will be the first year this course has been offered. It has been in a pilot/testing phase for a few years across the US.  AP CS Principles has a broader look at computing and is not tied to a specific programming language. We will explore several languages (Java, Python, SQL, HTML5, JavaScript).  Seven “Big Ideas” that we will cover: Programming, Abstractions, Algorithms, Creativity, Global Impact, the Internet, Big Data  Assessments for the AP exam:  Two performance tasks focusing on computing innovations and programming will be submitted to the College Board during the school year  Multiple choice exam in May

Do I need to have programming experience before I take one of these classes?  No!! Both courses are designed to be introductory computer science classes.  I am looking for students who are motivated and excited about computers.  Successful computer science students are those students who don’t give up when they encounter a problem.

What’s next?  Make sure you sign the check in form tonight so I have your contact information  Students can complete the online AP application from Friday, January 15 th – Friday, January 22 nd.  Questions??  Stop by and see me next week  me:  For more information: 

And finally, a little computer humor…