Computer Science
- Exploring Computer Science
- AP Computer Science Principles
- AP Computer Science A
- CISCO IT Essentials
- Cyber Security Essentials
Exploring Computer Science
Course Code: 289410, 289420
Grade Level: 9-12
Prerequisite: None
Length of Course: Two trimesters/semesters
CTE Pathway: System Software & Development/Intro (completion of A)
Information, Support & Services/Intro (completion of B)
College Entrance: Meets one semester of UC/CSU (g) Elective requirement
Exploring Computer Science is a two trimester/semester course consisting of 6 units: Human Computer Interaction, Problem Solving, Web Design, Programming, Computing and Data Analysis, and Robotics. The first three units are taught in part A of the course, the second three are taught in part B. The two parts are independent of each other and may be taken out of order or in different years. The course teaches both computer science content and computational thinking practices. Assignments and instruction are framed to be socially relevant and meaningful for students. Units utilize a variety of tools/platforms, and each unit culminates with a final project.
AP Computer Science Principles
Course Code: 289010, 289020
Grade Level: 9-12
Prerequisite: Exploring Computer Science A or Algebra I (recommended) Ability to navigate computer file systems and being familiar with using multiple software programs including, but not limited to productivity software (e.g., Microsoft Office, Google Docs) and instructional platforms (e.g., Moodle, Google Classroom).
Length of Course: Two trimesters/semesters
CTE Pathway: System Software & Development/Concentrator (A&B)
College Entrance: Meets one year of UC/CSU (d) science requirement
AP Computer Science Principles is a computer science course designed to give students foundational computing skills, and understanding of the real-world impact of computing applications, and programming literacy. It is designed to introduce a wider range of students to the central tenets of computer science and to interest them and prepare them for success in computer science and other STEAM fields.
AP Computer Science A
Course Code: 288910, 288920
Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisite: AP Computer Science Principles, Algebra II P, or teacher permission
Length of Course: Two trimesters/semesters
CTE Pathway: System Software & Development/Capstone
College Entrance: Meets one year of UC/CSU (d) Science requirement
Students will program in Java using the activities, techniques, and constructs listed in the AP Computer Science Topic Outline, the official documentation for an AP Computer Science course published by the College Board. Students will have the option of taking the AP Computer Science test, recognized by many colleges and universities as the equivalent of an introductory level programming class.
CISCO IT Essentials
Course Code: 289810, 289820
Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisite: Exploring Computer Science B or teacher permission
Length of Course: Two trimesters/semesters
CTE Pathway: Information Support and Services/Concentrator
College Entrance: Meets one year of UC/CSU (g) Elective requirement
Cisco IT Essentials covers fundamental computer and career skills for entry-level IT jobs. This course includes hands-on labs that provide practical experience to prepare students for enterprise networking. Simulation tools help students develop troubleshooting skills and practice what they learn. Course includes developing working knowledge of how computers and mobile devices operate, identifying common security threats and vulnerabilities like malware, phishing, spoofing and social engineering. Students will learn how to apply skills and procedures to install, configure, and troubleshoot computers, mobile devices, and software. Focus will be on developing critical thinking and problem solving skills using both real equipment and Cisco Packet Tracer, a network configuration simulation tool.
Cyber Security Essentials
Course Code: 290910, 290920
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite: CISCO IT Essentials or teacher permission
Length of Course: Two trimesters/semesters
CTE Pathway: Information Support and Services/Capstone
College Entrance: Meets one year of UC/CSU (g) Elective requirement
Cybersecurity Essentials explores the broad topic of cybersecurity in interesting and safe ways. Students learn how to protect their personal data and privacy online and in social media, and why more and more IT jobs require cybersecurity awareness and understanding. Students will be able to identify and guard against a variety of online malware, attacks, and hacks. Linux Operating System fundamentals is included in the course and is designed to build Linux knowledge for a career in IT. Upon successful completion of the course students will have the skills and knowledge necessary to pass the CompTIA Network+ and Security+ certification exams.