Mr. Perry AP Computer Science
AP CSP is designed to be an introductory course that covers multiple areas of computer science and the world of programming today. Students can enter this class with little-to-no background knowledge or experience with computer science and still perform quite well.
There are three steps to completing the AP CSP Summer Assignment:
Step 1 - Introduction to Binary Numbers
Everything in computer science must become a 1 or a 0, and thinking/counting in binary will be a frequent requirement. During the first week of school, everyone will have to demonstrate the ability to convert decimal numbers to binary numbers. If you know how to do this already, then you can skip this step. If you are new to computer science, download and print your own Flippy-Do (pdf link below), then fill it out according to the instructions pictured next to the link and watch this introductory video on binary. Practice using the Flippy-Do to convert decimal numbers (between 1 and 255) to binary. For an added challenge, try out the number conversion game created by one of last year's AP CSP students.
Balloon Binary Game Practice - Click HERE
Step 2 - Introduction to Algorithms
Much of AP CSP will be dedicated to understanding a variety of algorithms. Watch the documentary "The Secret Rules to Modern Life: Algorithms" (it is 1 hour long) and pick your favorite parts or most interesting lessons you learned.
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ASSIGNMENT: Type up a document detailing which parts of the video stuck with you, and which parts made you more curious or which parts brought up more questions for you. Be ready to report to other students and me during the first week of school.
Step 3 - Text-Based Languages: Learn Python
In AP CSP we will offer coding activities in Python. Linked below is my "Summer Homework" classroom for Ozaria, which is an adventure game that will allow you to practice many Python skills that we will use throughout the school year. It is beginner-friendly, and it will take between 1-2 hours depending on how long you spend on various steps. Click the link, create an account using your HVS Google credentials, and complete Chapter 1 - "Up the Mountain." There is nothing to turn in with this portion of your summer homework because the website allows me to track your progress.
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Get started at Ozaria by clicking HERE