Computer Science

Welcome to the Computer Science Department webpage. We appreciate your interest in learning more about our courses, policies, and AP Options. Gregory Lippe, Department Chair, and Nathan Pedretti are working together to maintain and improve our department. 

The goal of the Computer Science department is two-fold:

• Ensure that students possess the required computer skills to succeed in the future, and
• Engage students in information processing and programming concepts that may allow them to create the jobs of the future.

Course Offerings

One semester of a computer course is required for graduation. We have placed course summaries as well as detailed course learning targets online. Our computer requirement can be fulfilled by Computer Concepts, or our sequence of Computer Science courses culminating in possible AP credit.  In many cases, Computer Science AP credit can be used to fulfill one math course in college. Check with your possible colleges for more information.

In Computer Concepts, students become capable of independently using word processing, spread sheet, data base, and graphical presentation programs.

In Computer Science 1 - 4, students become capable of analyzing problems, and writing programs to solve those problems. Computer Science students progress from learning introductory programming concepts in the BASIC language, into assembly language programming and finish with Java programming in the Advanced Placement course.

Grading Summary

In all courses, students earn credit by completing a range of worksheets, projects, and tests.  While worksheets and homework make up a small portion of the grade (10%), it is vital students keep up to learn key skills.  Projects (40%) span multiple days of learning and feature past student examples, grading rubrics, and clear instructions. Finally, all tests (50%) feature a review session and are preceded by many days of worksheets, interactive lessons, and projects before students are asked to demonstrate their course knowledge.

Read more about our complete Computer Science Grading Policy.

Keys to Success

Organization—Students receive a lot of handouts and information boh in print and online via moodle.  Students are responsible in creating a system of organizing their materials both on their computers, and in printed form.

Attendance—Students need to attend class regularly and arrive on time ready to learn.  Students should always be ready to take notes for the day.  If students are absent, they need to get a copy of the notes from a fellow student and then come in during ISH for help with understanding the material.  

Lab Work—Students need to use their time efficiently when working in the lab.  Students are encouraged to help each other in the lab, but each student is responsible for understanding all of the material.  

ISH—If students fall behind, they must come in during ISH to get caught up with the material.