Computer Science - St. John's Preparatory School

The Code to Success

COMPUTER SCIENCE

Computing shapes nearly every aspect of modern life. The St. John's Prep Computer Science Department prepares students to confidently navigate and help shape a technology-driven world.

Students develop the ability to:

Think computationally to analyze and solve complex problems creatively.
Collaborate effectively to tackle meaningful challenges.
Design and program software while organizing and managing information.
Understand computer hardware, networks, and the systems that power today's digital world.
Use technology ethically and responsibly.

Sixth grade are introduced to computer science principles before studying them consistently throughout their middle school years. All high school students then must complete a half-credit of computer science before graduation. Whether beginning with Intro to Swift Programming or pursuing one of the College Board's AP Computer Science courses, students can explore the discipline at a level that matches their interests and abilities. Through a supportive and challenging curriculum, we equip every student with the skills to thrive in an ever-evolving technological landscape.

Course of Study

Required Course | Elective | All High School students must take a 1/2 credit course in computer science

Grade 6	Grade 7	Grade 8	Grade 9	Grade 10	Grade 11	Grade 12
Computer Science	Computer Science	Computer Science		AP Computer Science A	AP Computer Science A	AP Computer Science A
				AP Computer Science Principles	AP Computer Science Principles	AP Computer Science Principles
			Computer Aided Design and 3D Printing	Computer Aided Design and 3D Printing	Computer Aided Design and 3D Printing	Computer Aided Design and 3D Printing
				Foundations in Data Science	Foundations in Data Science	Foundations in Data Science
			Introduction to Algorithmic Thinking and Computational Technologies	Introduction to Algorithmic Thinking and Computational Technologies	Introduction to Algorithmic Thinking and Computational Technologies	Introduction to Algorithmic Thinking and Computational Technologies
				Introduction to Cybersecurity	Introduction to Cybersecurity	Introduction to Cybersecurity
			Introduction to Programming using C++	Introduction to Programming using C++	Introduction to Programming using C++	Introduction to Programming using C++
			Introduction to Programming with Java	Introduction to Programming with Java	Introduction to Programming with Java	Introduction to Programming with Java
			Introduction to Programming with Python	Introduction to Programming with Python	Introduction to Programming with Python	Introduction to Programming with Python
			Multimedia Digital Video Production	Multimedia Digital Video Production	Multimedia Digital Video Production	Multimedia Digital Video Production
			Robotics	Robotics	Robotics	Robotics
					Topics in Computer Science	Topics in Computer Science

Course Descriptions

Middle School Computer Science Courses

Grade 6

In sixth grade computer science, students focus on two important tasks: developing the ability to touch type and the creativity to solve basic problems. While it doesn’t seem like a great achievement, touch typing serves to move into the “automatic” section of the brain the basic skill of keyboarding, freeing the mind to focus on the task at hand when a student is writing. Cognitive automaticity in this area pays big dividends in future years. Concurrently, students learn how to construct a simple program and implement problem solutions using a block-based visual programming language.

Grade 7

In seventh grade computer science, students learn to work collaboratively to tackle complex problems that none of them could individually solve. Robotics provides students the opportunity to design and create artifacts that none of them individually could have conceived. It also requires them to learn collaborative skills to allow them to productively work together. Similarly, modern software design requires that people work in concert to achieve a specified goal. By working on robot and application design, students can learn essential skills that allow them to solve problems collectively.

Grade 8

In eighth grade computer science, students expand their understanding of algorithms and explore some of the ethical issues involved in information technology. They explore computing’s impact on human culture for good and for ill, and they look at how their use of technology shapes their community and the world. By the end of the course, they also have deepened their understanding of algorithms (methods of doing things) and are able to assess the merits of choosing different algorithms to solve the same problem.

High School Computer Science Courses

AP Computer Science A

Level: Advanced Placement
Credits: 1
Prerequisite: Departmental Approval
Open To: Grades 10, 11, and 12

This course covers all topics that are part of the AP Computer Science A curriculum, including the basics of the Java programming language, simple data structures, common algorithms, recursion, and sorting. Students will also learn Big-O notation, a way of assessing the execution speed of computer programs. The course is open to both those with no programming experience and students who have taken a Java class previously, and there is no prerequisite. The course does not assume that the students have any prior programming experience. Once the AP exam date is past, the class will be devoted to writing a large-scale program (often a game with graphics) as a group software engineering project. The student should expect to spend additional time outside of class time in the lab or at home doing the exercises, homework, and reading in the text. Please note students cannot simultaneously enroll in Java along with AP Computer Science A, or take Java after AP Computer Science A.

Note: Students who are new to the field of computer science are encouraged to take AP Computer Science Principles, Java, or C++ prior to taking AP Computer Science A. Since circumstances may vary, any student with a question is encouraged to speak with a member of the Computer Science department for individual guidance.

AP Computer Science Principles

Level: Advanced Placement
Credits: 1
Prerequisite: Departmental Approval
Open To: Grades 10, 11, and 12

AP Computer Science Principles introduces students to the foundational concepts of computer science and challenges them to explore how computing and technology can impact the world. It is equivalent to a college non-major’s course in computer science, introduces students to the essential ideas of computer science, and invites students to understand how computing changes the world. Programming experience is not required. The rigorous course promotes deep learning of computational content, develops computational thinking skills, and engages students in the creative aspects of the field. The course is founded on the big ideas of computer science including abstraction, data and information, algorithms, programing, the Internet and global impact as well as the computational thinking practices of drawing connections between different computing concepts, creating computational artifacts, abstracting, analyzing problems, communicating and collaborating.

Note: Students who intend to complete both AP Computer Science courses are advised to enroll in Principles before taking AP Computer Science A.

Computer Aided Design and 3D Printing

Level: Honors
Credits: 1/2
Prerequisite: None
Open To: Grades 9, 10, 11, and 12

The course introduces students to a professional computer-aided design (CAD) program through both individual and group exercises and project-based work on 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional CAD drawings. Students learn about perspective rendering, hidden surfaces, and the importance of appropriate dimensioning and labeling. Design thinking and the engineering process are introduced and permeate this course. Students are expected to be current on readings and projects throughout the course. Content will be delivered primarily through demonstrations, handouts and practical hands-on experience. Professionals working in the industry are included as guest lecturers when available. The course is based on the CAD course common for freshmen in college engineering programs.

Note: Does not satisfy the computer science graduation requirement.

Foundations in Data Science

Level: Honors
Credits: 1/2
Prerequisite: Satisfaction of the Computer Science requirement for graduation
Open To: Grades 10, 11, and 12

Foundations in Data Science is a comprehensive course designed to equip students with the essential skills, knowledge, and abilities to navigate the entire data life cycle, transforming raw data into actionable wisdom. Recognizing that a data scientist is not only technically proficient but also a skilled storyteller, this holistic course integrates core computer science concepts with an emphasis on pattern finding, compelling data visualization, and effective communication. As our society becomes increasingly data-driven, students will gain concrete, practical analytical skills through hands-on applications of fundamental technologies, including the command line, SQL, and relational database design, as well as both basic and advanced levels of Excel and Tableau. The course culminates in a self-selected, in-depth final project where students will analyze a dataset and present their findings as a complete data story, establishing a firm foundation for effectively interacting with data in our modern world.

Notes: No prior programming experience is required. Offered every school year beginning with an odd numbered year. This course does not satisfy the computer science graduation requirement.

Introduction to Algorithmic Thinking and Computational Technologies

Level: Accelerated
Credits: 1/2
Prerequisite: None
Open To: Grades 9, 10, 11, and 12

Introduction to Algorithmic Thinking and Computational Technologies introduces students to algorithmic thinking and symbolic reasoning using modern programming languages and to basic concepts of modern computer science such as abstraction, digital representations of data, collaborative development of computational systems, and the ethical concerns raised by digital communications. The course explores the global, national and personal impact of technology. Students will be expected to work both individually and in groups to explore key concepts of computer science.

Note: No prior programming experience is required. Not open to students who have completed Intro to Python.

Introduction to Cybersecurity

Level: Honors
Credits: 1/2
Prerequisite: Programming Course (Java, C++, python, AP CSA, or AP Principles) and Departmental Approval
Open To: Grades 10, 11, and 12

As computers are becoming more ingrained in our society, cybersecurity is becoming more and more vital to protect people from the threats of cyberattacks. The course will focus on ethical and beneficial cybersecurity practices. Students in this course will learn about the history of cybersecurity and the different types of cyberattacks. The course will cover a broad range of foundational topics within cybersecurity, such as examining how the Internet works, looking at good practices to prevent cyber attacks, and encrypting information. Students will get hands-on coding experience with encryption/decryption techniques and with examining cyber attacks on networks. The course will cover basic SQL and how to utilize HTML. Experience with a programming language is required and expected.

Note: Offered every school year beginning with an even numbered year. Does not satisfy the computer science graduation requirement.

Introduction to Programming using C++

Level: Honors
Credits: 1/2
Prerequisite: None
Open To: Grades 9, 10, 11, and 12

This course will introduce the student to programming in the C++ language. Topics covered include program mechanics, creating and editing files, function declaration and construction, simple data types, operating with arrays, building structures and object oriented programming.

Note: No prior programming experience is required.

Introduction to Programming with Java

Level: Honors
Credits: 1/2
Prerequisite: None
Open To: Grades 9, 10, 11, and 12

In this course students will learn the basics of the Java programming language by programming simulations and games. The emphasis throughout the course is on the principles of object-oriented design. The course presumes no prior knowledge of programming. The course uses extensive project-based work, initially done individually by each student. As the course progresses students learn how to develop larger programs as part of a team.

Note: No prior programming experience is required.

Introduction to Programming with Python

Level: Accelerated
Credits: 1/2
Prerequisite: None
Open To: Grades 9, 10, 11, and 12

This course provides a foundational introduction to programming, designed for students with little to no prior coding experience. Using the Python programming language, students will explore fundamental computer science concepts, including variables, loops, conditionals, functions, and basic data structures. The course emphasizes problem-solving and computational thinking at a gentle pace, making programming accessible and engaging. Students will work on interactive coding exercises and projects that reinforce core programming principles, with opportunities to explore graphics-based programming using Python’s libraries. By the end of the course, students will have developed a strong understanding of programming fundamentals, preparing them for more advanced computer science coursework. No prior programming experience is required.

Note: No prior programming experience is required.

Multimedia Digital Video Production

Level: Accelerated or Honors
Credits: 1/2
Prerequisite: None
Open To: Grades 9, 10, 11, and 12

Multimedia & Digital Video Production brings technology and creativity together to help students master the skills they need to produce engaging, technically advanced videos. Students can use any filming technology available to them and will use iMovie to edit and produce the final product. They develop a wide range of skills, including everything from script development, storyboarding, location and resource planning to camera work, special effects, scene transitions, editing, titling and audio. Students will also analyze movies, news programs, and other forms of media in order to gain a better understanding of the wide variety of techniques used in filming and editing. The course is primarily project based and students will be expected to work both individually and in groups.

Note: Does not satisfy the computer science graduation requirement.

Robotics

Level: Honors
Credits: 1/2
Prerequisite: None
Open To: Grades 9, 10, 11, and 12

This honors-level robotics course offers a dynamic exploration of the multidisciplinary nature of robotics, both virtual and physical. After and introduction to what defines a robot, the focus is on combining hardware, software and the engineering design process to build a functional robot that can work with or compete against other robots.

The curriculum encompasses various aspects of robotics engineering, including:

VEX Hardware and Software: Students will master the intricacies of VEX hardware components and software programming. The foundational skills of programming will be covered.
Physical Robot Construction: Students will construct basic robots using VEX hardware kits. Through hands-on assembly, students will gain insight into mechanical systems, electrical circuits, and structural design principles.
Engineering Design Process: Guided by the engineering design process, students will conceive, design, and fabricate a custom apparatus for their robots. From brainstorming concepts to prototyping and testing, students will iterate through the design process to create innovative solutions tailored to specific challenges.
Team Collaboration and Competitions: Students work in small teams to tackle robotics challenges and engage in in-class competition. These collaborative projects foster teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills essential for success in the field of robotics.

By the end of the course, students will emerge with a comprehensive understanding of robotics principles, the current state of the robotics industry, proficiency in the basics of programming, building a robot and the iterative nature of the engineering design process.

Note: No prior programming experience is required.

Topics in Computer Science

Level: Honors
Credits: 1/2
Prerequisite: Departmental Approval and 1 Credit of Computer Science Courses
Open To: Grades 11 and 12

The course devotes approximately one quarter to exploration of hot topics in computer science under the direction of the teacher, and concludes with at least one quarter in which each student will explore a subject of interest to him in the area of computer science. Such topics for exploration can include the Linux operating system, animation, robotics, artificial intelligence, or advanced programming techniques in a language the student is already familiar with. Other projects are certainly possible since there are many other areas of interest in computer science. Each student will, among other things, be expected to present a well-written research paper and portfolio of his course work and present a multi-media presentation of the work that he has done.