AP® Computer Science Principles

Girls-Only & ​All-Gender Course; Prerequisite - None, though prior programming experience recommended; Full-year course
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This course investigates the “big ideas” found in our digital world. Using the Python programming language, students develop and demonstrate fundamental concepts of computer programming that can be applied across a variety of projects and languages. Students explore different means of representing information digitally and how our digital world has evolved. They create computer programs to solve authentic problems or for personal interest, such as unique musical pieces, math calculators, and data summations. Students discuss the current state of technology and its role in our everyday lives, discerning the positive and negative influences of innovations concerning computer and network technologies to society, culture, and economics. Throughout, students develop their skills in computational thinking, logical reasoning, and describing processes through algorithms and abstraction. Finally, students demonstrate their learning by creating a portfolio for submission to the College Board and are prepared for the AP® Computer Science Principles Exam in May. 
WHAT STUDENTS SAY

“When I took this course, which is not offered at my school, I fell in love with it and decided to major in it in college. It is nice to have an avenue to explore something I’m interested in that I would not have been able to before.”

​"I am seriously learning new material and I am able to imagine how the code works or looks like for a certain thing in the real world." 

WHAT STUDENTS DO
Learning is an active process at One Schoolhouse. Students design, create and apply. And, they engage with classmates and connect with their teachers through discussions, video conferences, and projects. Specifically, in this class students will:
  • Set goals that drive their learning. Students reflect regularly on their growth, and meet on video chat with their online teacher to review progress towards their goals.
  • Have choice in how they learn new content and practice new skills. Students are given agency to determine the best ways for them to learn.
  • Apply what they are learning to the real world. Learning is meaningful and connects to concepts outside the classroom.
  • Practice constructive engagement in a diverse and changing world. Students interact with classmates from across the country and around the world.
  • Gain academic maturity. Online learning takes greater discipline and independence than a traditional face-to-face classroom. Teachers support students to build this skill.
MEET A TEACHER FOR THIS COURSE
SIGNATURE ACTIVITIES
Examples of signature activities and projects for this course are:
  • Learn Python programming by creating your own music pieces using an online digital audio workstation.
  • Prepare for the AP CSP Create Performance Task by creating Python programs such as a choose-your-own-adventure game and turtle drawings.
  • Prepare for the AP CSP Explore Performance Task by researching modern computing innovations and creating artifacts to exemplify how technology has influenced society.
  • Investigate emerging technologies and the exciting possibilities they promise.
  • Prepare for the end of year AP CSP exam with weekly practice questions and class discussions.
COURSE APPROVAL
This course is approved by the College Board and the NCAA. 

One Schoolhouse is fully accredited with the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges through December 1, 2025; we are an approved online publisher for the University of California. ​
Gillian Thomas
she/her/hers
Science Teacher
BS University of California, Santa Cruz