(Group)26

Systems Programming

Santa Teresa High School

Pathway Contact

Carole Ng
ngca@esuhsd.org
(408) 347-6424

Systems Programming

Exploring Computer Science – Introduction

This course provides students with foundational knowledge of programming and computer science. Students will explore topics of human computer interaction, problem solving, web design, computer programming, data modeling, and robotics. Throughout the course, students will understand the algorithmic underpinnings of computer applications and gain technical expertise using computational tools. Other areas of the sector could be introduced such as software design, networking, game design, information support, and topics like artificial intelligence, and robotics. Social issues in ICT will be introduced such as hacking and cybersecurity, social media usage and protecting personal information, the digital divide, open government data, and ethical computing. Course titles may also include: Exploring Computer Science, Introduction to Computer Science A; Computer Principles; Introduction to Information and Communication Technologies; Introduction to Computer Technologies.

Computer Science Principles/AP – Intermediate

This course provides students with the fundamental knowledge of computer programming for solving applied problems. Topics covered include using various programming languages, protocols, language syntax, data structures, object oriented concepts, interfaces, sorting and searching algorithms, and developing reports. Also covered, software testing, debugging, and improvement, integrated development using object-oriented programming and sensory information from robots to solve problems and meet challenges integrating STEM subjects.

Computer Science A/AP – Advanced

This course emphasizes object-oriented programming methodology with a concentration on problem solving and algorithm development. Students apply discrete programming skills to make a video game, a virtual pet, a sound editor, etc. and will explore careers in programming, including wireless applications for iPhone, Android, and applications. It also includes the study of data structures, design, and abstraction. Other topics might include developing databases and data modeling.

Prepare for success in college and career while still in high school. The Systems
Programming Pathway exposes you to business and technology careers, while providing
practical, hands-on projects in real world settings. Learn the skills needed to excel in a
programming-related career.

This four-year program has a required 3^rd year AP Computer Science – A (Java) capstone
course and offers the college preparatory academic courses accepted by the California State
and University System. While this is a programming pathway, you’ll also be exposed to
rigorous English and Math courses, helping you develop the communication and logical
thinking skills needed for success in college and career.

By the end of the program, you will:

View class descriptions

Write PL/SQL code to interact with SQL databases
Write Java programs
Design databases
Use Raspberry Pi to build simple hardware projects
Create simple websites
Write Android mobile phone apps using App Inventor
Create animation using Alice and Greenfoot

Grow leadership and technical skills as you engage with the professional world. Opportunities include:

Science fairs
Hackathons
Industry Speakers
Industry shadowing or field trips
Summer interns
Code contests
Workshops that teach soft skills like presentation, leadership, organization, time managment, teamwork, etc.

Computer Science is a field that’s high in demand. Students who complete this program are likely to find opportunities in:

Software development
Database administration
Web development
System analysis
Business analysis
The above and similar positions are needed in industries like:
Software publishing
Finance and insurance
Administrative and support services
Manufacturing

What types of classes will I take?

In addition to college preparatory academic courses, you can take specific courses in computer science, database design and programming. All four courses in the program sequence are a-g UC approved for elective credit.

Grade	Computer Science	Math	English
9th	Exploring Computer Science (Introduction)	Math 2 Math 3 Math Analysis AP Statistics and/or AP Calculus (depending on entrance level)	English 1A
10th	AP Computer Science – Principles (Intermediate)		English 2A
11th	AP Computer Science – A (Advance)		AP English Language
12th	Database Design and SQL Programming (Optional)		AP English Literature

What types of certification can I earn?

AP Computer Science – Principles
AP Computer Science – A (Java)
AP English – Language and Composition
AP English – Literature and Composition
AP Statistics
AP Calculus AB or BC
Oracle Java Foundations Certified Junior Associate
Oracle Database Foundations Certified Junior Associate