AP Computer Science Principles
Develop computational thinking skills and explore the impact of computing
About the Course
AP Computer Science Principles is a rigorous, college-level course that introduces students to the foundational concepts of computer science and challenges them to explore how computing and technology impact the world.
This course emphasizes computational thinking, problem-solving, and the development of computer programs while fostering creativity and collaboration. Students learn to design and evaluate solutions and apply computer science to solve problems through the development of algorithms and programs.
The course covers seven Big Ideas: Creative Development, Data, Algorithms and Programming, Computer Systems and Networks, Impact of Computing, and Computational Thinking Practices that students apply throughout the course.
Course Big Ideas
Creative Development
Learn to collaborate and use current technologies to create meaningful computational artifacts. Students develop programs, work in teams, and use development processes to create solutions to problems.
Data
Explore how data is collected, stored, transformed, and used. Students learn about data compression, encryption, and how data is used to gain insight and knowledge about the world.
Algorithms and Programming
Develop algorithms and programs to solve problems. Students learn fundamental programming concepts including variables, data types, control structures, and procedures.
Computer Systems and Networks
Understand how computers and networks work together. Students explore the internet, cybersecurity, and how devices communicate with each other.
Impact of Computing
Examine how computing innovations influence and are influenced by economic, social, and cultural contexts. Students explore ethical and legal concerns related to computing.
Programming in AP CSP
Students in AP CSP learn to program using block-based languages (like Scratch or App Inventor) and text-based languages (like Python or JavaScript). The course emphasizes:
⚡ Learn Snap! Programming →- Algorithm development and implementation
- Data abstraction and manipulation
- Procedural abstraction through functions
- Testing and debugging strategies
- Iterative development processes
- Code documentation and commenting
AP Create Performance Task
A major component of the AP CSP course is the Create Performance Task, where students independently develop a computer program of their choice. This project allows students to:
- Design and implement a program that solves a problem or enables innovation
- Develop an algorithm that integrates mathematical and logical concepts
- Document their development process and explain their code
- Demonstrate understanding of abstraction and modularity
Additional Class Projects
- Mobile App Development - Create functional mobile applications using App Inventor
- Data Analysis Projects - Work with real-world datasets to discover trends and insights
- Cybersecurity Investigations - Explore encryption, secure communication, and online safety
- Internet Simulations - Build models of how data travels across networks
- Social Impact Research - Investigate how computing innovations affect society
AP Exam Information
The AP Computer Science Principles exam consists of two main components:
Create Performance Task (30%)
Completed during class time, students develop a computer program, create a video demonstrating its functionality, and respond to prompts about their development process.
End-of-Course Exam (70%)
A 2-hour exam featuring 70 multiple-choice questions covering all course content, including reading and analyzing code, computational thinking, and the impacts of computing.
College Credit & Career Preparation
Students who score well on the AP exam may earn college credit and advanced placement. Beyond college credit, AP CSP prepares students for:
- Further computer science study at the college level
- Careers in software development, data science, and IT
- Understanding technology's role in any future career path
- Making informed decisions about technology in their personal and professional lives
Who Should Take This Course?
AP Computer Science Principles is designed for all students, regardless of prior programming experience. It's ideal for students who:
- Are curious about how technology shapes our world
- Enjoy problem-solving and creative thinking
- Want to develop practical programming skills
- Are considering careers in STEM fields
- Want to earn college credit while in high school
- Seek a broad understanding of computer science concepts