This course enables students to further develop knowledge and skills in computer science. Students will use modular design principles to create complex and fully documented programs, according to industry standards. Student teams will manage a large software development project, from planning through to project review. Students will also analyse algorithms for effectiveness. They will investigate ethical issues in computing and further explore environmental issues, emerging technologies, areas of research in computer science, and careers in the field. (The Ontario Curriculum Grades 10 to 12 Computer Studies - Revised (2008))

Prerequisite: Introduction to Computer Science, Grade 11, University Preparation

Overall Expectations

Programming Concepts and Skills

1. demonstrate the ability to use different data types and expressions when creating computer programs;
2. describe and use modular programming concepts and principles in the creation of computer programs;
3. design and write algorithms and subprograms to solve a variety of problems;
4. use proper code maintenance techniques when creating computer programs.

Software Development

1. demonstrate the ability to manage the software development process effectively, through all of its stages – planning, development, production, and closing;
2. apply standard project management techniques in the context of a student-managed team project.

Designing Modular Programs

1. demonstrate the ability to apply modular design concepts in computer programs;
2. analyse algorithms for their effectiveness in solving a problem.

Topics in Computer Science

1. assess strategies and initiatives that promote environmental stewardship with respect to the use of computers and related technologies;
2. analyse ethical issues and propose strategies to encourage ethical practices related to the use of computers;
3. analyse the impact of emerging computer technologies on society and the economy;
4. research and report on different areas of research in computer science, and careers related to computer science.

Students will be assessed and evaluated using the standard province-wide achievement chart that identifies four categories of knowledge and skills in Computer Studies.

Rubrics will be provided.

The breakdown of the course is:

Knowledge and Understanding 25%

Thinking and Inquiry 25%

Communication 20%

Application 30%

70 % Term Work + 15% Culminating Activity + 15% Final Exam

(DPCDSB values and weightings were Revised in June 2009)

• Students must like solving problems
• Students must want to learn how to program
• Students must be willing to work in groups and on their own as per the situation
• Students must use a Gmail account to back up their work
• Students will not be able to use the computer lab unless they sign the handbook's user agreement.
• Plagiarism of any kind will result in a mark of 0 in all categories.
• If a student cannot explain their code, or pseudo-code, the assignment will be considered plagiarized.
• All assignments must be submitted in the form of source code. Complied binaries will not be accepted.
• All assignments will follow appropriate course naming and documentation conventions.
• Late work will be handled as per the student handbook.
• Students must be active learners. Participation is critical to success.
• Be positive, timely, inquisitive, and willing to be challenged. Respect yourself, others and the lab.
• Remember that this is an U level course, and it will be taught in a variety of styles including, demos, lecture, hands-on programming, presentation, pseudo-code writing, team work and individual study.
• Students will be given ample time in which they can plan and execute their solutions in class. The use of a home computer is not necessary for successful completion of this course.