Computer science for secondary schools: Course content

Computers and computing are topics of discussion in many curriculum areas in secondary school. The four courses recommended by this task group, however, have computing as their primary content. The courses are: 1) Introduction to Computer Science I (a full year course) 2) Introduction to Computer Science II (a full year course) 3) Introduction to a High-level Computer Language (a half-year course) 4) Applications and Implications of Computers (a half-year course) Courses 1 and 2 are designed for students with a serious interest in computer science. Course 1 can serve as a single introductory course for some students and also act as a prerequisite for Course 2. At the end of two years of study, students should be prepared to be placed in second level computer science classes in post-secondary educational institutions or to take the Advanced Placement Exam available through the College Entrance Exam Board.