AP Computer Science A: Java Programming

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.

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!

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