Dear Students:
Get ready for AP Computer Science Principles in August 2024! It’s a challenging subject, but I am excited to have you as my student. We will be diving into the world of computer science, exploring everything from basic concepts to the intricate details of how computers function. To help you start strong, I have put together a summer assignment.
First you will register on CodeHS.com using the link provided. Then, you’ll have two main sections to complete: a pre-test to gauge your current knowledge and an introduction to programming with Karel the Dog. Don’t worry if you’re new to programming; these assignments are designed to ease you into it. Remember, this isn’t about getting the right answers. It’s about putting in effort and learning along the way. If you get stuck, take a break, and come back to it later.
https://codehs.com/go/C0301
After you finish registering, you'll gain access to the assignments. Each lesson in the summer packet follows a similar format. Typically, you'll find a brief video introducing the lesson, a quiz with 1-5 questions, examples illustrating concepts covered in the video, and exercises for you to complete.
1. Computer Science Principles Pretest: This section should take around 15 minutes and isn't graded. It serves as an initial assessment to gauge your existing knowledge and establish a starting point for improvement.
2. Introduction to Programming with Karel the Dog (15 Lessons): This section will take between 5 to 8 hours to complete and depends partly on your previous programming experience, if any. Even if you're unfamiliar with many terms and concepts, completing each lesson will better prepare you for the course in August.
While you might not grasp every concept, especially if you're new to programming or haven't practiced in a while, do your best to tackle the problems and exercise independently. It's more important for us to evaluate your understanding and identify areas for improvement rather than focusing solely on correct answers.
Most importantly, have fun with it! Programming is a creative endeavor, so enjoy the process. Plus, by tackling these assignments now, you’ll be well-prepared when the school year starts. So, let’s get started and make the most of this opportunity to learn and grow in computer science!
Secondly: Reading and Response- Choose at least 3 chapters (there are 8 chapters total in the book) to read from the REQUIRED READING -- "Blown to Bits" Your Life, Liberty, and Happiness After the Digital Explosion by Hal Abelson, Ken Ledeen & Harry Lewis (384 pages) available free online (http://www.bitsbook.com/thebook/) Download the response template (CLICK HERE) and complete your responses following the directions in the word document file. Change the file name so your first and last name is shown. You may read and respond to additional chapters using the response template.
