Computer Science

The Ardsley Computer Science program aims to provide every student with an experience in learning computer science that will prepare them to be productive members of a society driven by constant technological advances that will be stimulating, challenging, and exciting.

Students taking computer science courses at Ardsley High School will engage in experiences that will be student centered, focused on learning computer science through hands-on activities that engage students in deep learning that provokes curiosity and encourages self-exploration of topics that interest students and aligns with national curricular standards.

Many technology companies today provide employees with a non-traditional workspace that encourages communication, collaboration, and passionate exploration of ideas. It is the vision of Ardsley High School to model our computer science classrooms after this practice so students are prepared for the workplace of the 21st century.

Why Learn CS?

Computer science is everywhere!

Don't be intimidated by something you don't know (yet)!

Coding is for girls just as much as boys!

There is one key skill that matters in Computer Science.

Persistence.

If you are willing to work at learning, you'll succeed!

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Computer Science Courses

Intro to Computer Science

This introductory course in computer science is aimed at preparing students in the foundational skills of computer science. It will prepare students to take future courses in computer science, and will more broadly prepare students to be good digital citizens in a 21^st century technology-driven global economy. Topics include an introduction to computing and web development with HTML/CSS, an introduction to block-based programming languages, and an introduction to object-oriented programming through Python. Further topics such as physical computing and cybersecurity will be explored based on time and student interest.

Note: Introduction to Computer Science is a 1/2 credit course that meets every other day.

watch this video: how computer Science is Changing Everything

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should take Introduction to Computer Science?

This course is strongly encouraged as the starting point for the typical student. The course is designed for students with no background in computer science, but flexible enough for even more advanced students to grow their knowledge and skills. Don't be scared of learning computer science, anyone with persistence and interest can learn!

SUPA Introduction to Information Security

This course presents fundamental concepts of security, network organization and operation. It will introduce mechanisms, and the history of software, hardware, and OS security. Students will differentiate between physical, organizational and personal security.

By the end of the course, students will be able to understand how a network functions, monitor a network’s functions and performance, control a network’s configuration, determine what security is and how it relates to a network, detect and respond to an attack on a network, determine if a network is vulnerable to an attack, identify the threats to a network, prevent harm to a network, and analyze the impact of the protection. Students will have the option to earn three college credits through Syracuse University upon completion of this course.

Enroll in this SUPA course to learn about one of the fastest-growing areas of Computer Science! See the SUPA webpage for a more detailed course description and other information.

Watch this video: Cybersecurity Explained

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should take SUPA Intro to Cybersecurity?

This course can be a place to start in the sequence whether you have a background in computer science or not! If you are a persistent learner and excited about this growing field of computer science, or just want to know how to protect yourself from all the ways hacking happens out there, this course is a great fit for you.

What is SUPA?

SUPA is a program through Syracuse University (called Syracuse University Project Advance) that offers you the opportunity to enroll a college level class at a heavily discounted tuition rate. Successful completion of this course earns you 3 college credits that your future college might accept as transfer credit (similarly to how they accept AP courses for credit). Regardless, it's a great boost to your transcript as you apply to colleges!

Does this mean we're going to learn how to "hack"?

This question comes up a lot in any computer science course. There are two types of hackers -- Black Hat hackers (the bad guys) and White Hat hackers (the good guys). Naturally, in learning how to defend yourself on the internet, you'll learn some things that require you to have a strong moral compass. As we explore these ideas, we'll deeply discuss the ethics involved and you'll learn about what things are OK to do on the internet and what things could get you into huge trouble.

Is this course open to 10th graders?

Unfortunately, you must be in 11th or 12th grade to take this course. There are no exceptions to this policy, as this is a requirement imposed upon us by Syracuse University. Tenth grade students should consider taking Introduction to Computer Science, or AP Computer Science Principles if you took Introduction to Computer Science in 9th grade.

More Videos Introducing Cybersecurity:

The Internet - Cybersecurity & Crime

Cybersecurity 101

AP Computer Science Principles

AP Computer Science Principles is a college-level course that offers a multidisciplinary approach to teaching the underlying principles of computation.

The course will introduce students to the creative aspects of programming, abstractions, algorithms, large data sets, the internet, cybersecurity concerns, and computing impacts. AP Computer Science Principles will allow students to use technology to address real-world problems and build relevant solutions. As a broad course less focused on strict programming than the AP Computer Science A course, students will learn about the broad impacts of computing in our society and will leave prepared for more programming-oriented courses in the future.

Learn more about AP Computer Science Principles

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should take AP Computer Science Principles?

This course is a great starting point for Juniors or Seniors who do not have a background in computer science, but are excited to learn, and are ready for an AP level course. Don't be scared of learning computer science, anyone with persistence and interest can learn!

What language do we learn?

Programming is only a piece of this course! You'll learn about many other introductory computer science topics (see the course description above). We use App Inventor to program in this course, meaning you'll be making your very own Android apps! After the AP exam, we will spend the remainder of the year starting to learn Java so you are prepared for AP Computer Science A. Some students may also have the opportunity to learn Swift (a text-based language for programming iPhone apps) as well.

I am going to be a 10th grade student, can I take this class?

Generally speaking, 10th grade students cannot take AP courses at AHS. However, if you took Introduction to Computer Science as a 9th grade student we have made the exception to allow those students to take AP Computer Science Principles. Depending on space in sections and overall scheduling, special consideration MAY be made later in the process for 10th grade students. If that is the case, special criteria and an application will be distributed to students.

Watch This Video About Computer Science Principals

AP Computer Science A

AP Computer Science A is equivalent to a first- semester, college level course in computer programming. The course introduces students to computer science with fundamental topics that include problem solving, design strategies and methodologies, organization of data (data structures), approaches to processing data (algorithms), analysis of potential solutions, and the ethical and social implications of computing.

The course emphasizes both object-oriented and imperative problem solving and design using Java language. These techniques represent proven approaches for developing solutions that can scale up from small, simple problems to large, complex problems. The AP Computer Science A course curriculum is compatible with many CS1 courses in colleges and universities. Students should have completed AP Computer Science Principles, or have a prior background in Java, to enroll in this course.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should take AP Computer Science A?

This course is intended to be the final course in the Ardsley High School computer science sequence. It is primarily meant for seniors who have taken previous courses in computer science at AHS, or have explored Java in another manner prior to enrollment. If you have not taken AP Computer Science Principles, be sure to speak to Mr. Milonovich to ensure the background you have upon entering the course is sufficient for your success.

How challenging is this class?

AP Computer Science A is a challenging course, no secret there. Those who are persistent, work hard, and have some background in programming though should do quite well, and will have a fun experience along the way. You'll definitely be pushed to learn a lot and stretch your brain in this course though.

Can I take this class without experience in programming?

This course makes the assumption that you have been exposed to some programming before, and is often very challenging without any background. Students who have no background are encouraged to start with AP Computer Science Principles first. If you feel you have a special situation, you should speak with Mr. Milonovich.

Test HR-STYLE-3

Computer Science Department

Brandon Milonovich

Computer Science Teacher

Frank Savino

Mathematics Teacher, Computer Science Teacher