Computer Science

The pathway for learning Computer Science at Cathedral High School begins with either Computer Programming I (a semester course introducing object-oriented programming) or AP Computer Science Principles. Students then continue with a semester course in Java. After this, students can continue pursuing Computer Science through AP Computer Science A (AP CSA). Additionally, with having a preliminary foundation in either of the introductory courses, students can also take Web Design and C++, and Independent Study. Students who have external experience with Computer Science and are interested in taking any Academic, Honors, or AP Computer Science courses that require a prerequisite must get approval from the course instructor.


Computer Programming (Academic) (Honors)

C053AF/C053AS 1 Semester 1 Credit

C053XF/C053XS

Prerequisite:

None.

Course Description:

FOR ACADEMIC LEVEL: This course is an introduction to the general principles of programming and Computer Science. Initial concepts such as UI Design and Logic, as well as High-Level concepts such Methods, Properties, Conditionals, and Looping will be explored through exposure to Python language. Students will be introduced to the Life Cycle of a Program or System, with documentation at each level. With the rapidly changing landscape of computer hardware and software interwoven in daily activities from transportation to medical diagnostics and beyond, fluency in Computer Science, broader than computer literacy, provides a foundation for innovation. Computer science teaches design, logical reasoning and problem-solving. These 21st-century skills can translate to in-demand jobs as projected by the US Department of Labor. 

FOR HONORS LEVEL: Students may opt to take this course at an Honors level by completing an Honors level project at the end of each Unit.

*Course Fee*


C++ (Academic)

C062AF 1 Semester 1 Credit

Prerequisite:

Successful completion of Computer Programming or AP CSP or permission of the instructor.

Course Description:

The students will not only learn the syntax and semantics of the C++ language, but also the framework into which C++ programs fit, the analysis of problems to be solved using the language, and the techniques/process to develop these programs – from analysis, design, documentation, coding, and debugging. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to use the C++ learned in the course to program on the VEX and Arduino platform.


Java (Honors)

C064XS 1 Semester 1 Credit

Prerequisite:

Successful completion of Computer Programming or AP CSP or permission of the instructor.

Course Description:

The field of computer science is rapidly changing. Hardware and software continues to dramatically change in size, power, and flexibility. The course introduces students to Object Oriented Programming design and implementation through the Java programming language. This course also serves as a prerequisite for the Advanced Placement Computer Science A course.


AP Computer Science A (Advanced Placement) (Honors)

C063XF/C063XS 2 Semesters 2 Credits

Prerequisite:

Successful completion of an introductory programming course (Computer Programming or AP CSP) AND Java. 

Course Description:

This course prepares students for successful completion of the Advanced Placement Computer Science A examination given by College Board. Computing skills and object-oriented programming in Java are the focus of this course. Topics covered include static classes, arrays, recursions, encapsulation, inheritance, composition, and polymorphism. Students are required to take the AP exam in the spring. 


Independent Study/Computer Science (Honors)

C054XF/C054XS 1 Semester 1 Credit

Prerequisite:

Must have a learning plan approved by a mentor teacher.

Course Description:

This class is intended for the student who has demonstrated an advanced knowledge in the areas of computer science and/or computer technology. Students may use this class to develop and implement a course of study necessary for any of the departmentally approved certification tracts or they may choose to create an interdisciplinary research project to develop computer applications incorporating computer based research.


AP Computer Science Principles (Advanced Placement) (Honors)

C069XF/C069XS                        2 Semesters                       2 Credits

Prerequisite:

Algebra 1 

Course Description:

AP Computer Science Principles offers a multidisciplinary approach to teaching the underlying principles of computation. The course will introduce students to the creative aspects of programming, abstractions, algorithms, large data sets, the Internet, cybersecurity concerns, and computing impacts. AP Computer Science Principles will give students the opportunity to use technology to address real-world problems and build relevant solutions. This course focuses on the innovative aspects of computing as well as the computational thinking practices that help students see how computing is relevant to many areas of their everyday lives.