Course structure

The course structure follows the framework developed by the College Board and brings together computational thinking practices which capture the important aspects of the work of computer scientists with the essential ideas which encompass the foundational principles of computer science.

AP Computer Science Principles Course and Exam Content

The following are the major areas of study, or big ideas, that serve as the foundation of the course, enabling students to create meaningful connections among concepts and develop deeper conceptual
understanding:
■ Creative Development: When developing computing innovations, developers can use a formal, iterative design process or a less rigid process of experimentation, and will encounter phases of investigating and reflecting, designing, prototyping, and testing. Collaboration is an important tool at any phase of development.
■ Data: Data are central to computing innovations because they communicate initial conditions to programs and represent new knowledge.
■ Algorithms and Programming: Programmers integrate algorithms and abstraction to create programs for creative purposes and to solve problems.
■ Computing Systems and Networks: Computer systems and networks are used to transfer data.
■ Impact of Computing: Computers and computing have revolutionized our lives. To use computing safely and responsibly, we need to be aware of privacy, security, and ethical issues.

AP Computer Science Principles Computational Thinking Practices

The following computational thinking practices describe what skills students should develop during the course:
■ Computational Solution Design: Design and evaluate computational solutions for a purpose.
■ Algorithms and Program Development: Develop and implement algorithms.
■ Abstraction in Program Development: Develop programs that incorporate abstractions.
■ Code Analysis: Evaluate and test algorithms and programs.
■ Computing Innovations: Investigate computing innovations.
■ Responsible Computing: Contribute to an inclusive, safe, collaborative, and ethical computing culture.