Top Bar

Lower Merion School District

Off-Canvas

Computer Science

All computer science courses are offered at the Honors and AP level.

Computer Science 1 H

  • Length/credit: 1 semester - 0.5 credit
  • Grade(s): 9, 10, 11, 12
  • Prerequisite: Integrated Math 1
  • Course Number: 03070103

Computer Science 1 H is an introduction to the principles of computer science. Students use the Java programming language to study foundational topics including declaring and using variables, input and output, type conversion, control statements and repetition statements. The course places a heavy emphasis on problem solving and abstract thinking as students develop skills that will provide direct benefits across curriculums.

Computer Science 2 H

  • Length/credit: 1 semester - 0.5 credit (offered Spring Semester only)
  • Grade(s): 9, 10, 11, 12
  • Prerequisite: Computer Science 1 H
  • Course Number: 03070203

Students build upon the understanding of the Java programming language that was developed in Computer Science 1 H and further explore the foundational concepts introduced in that course. Content includes user-defined methods, arrays, reading from and writing to files, designing classes and graphics. Emphasis is placed on the student’s ability to run, debug, and troubleshoot a program. It is recommended that students sign up for Comp Sci 1H or 2H so they get a seamless full year experience.

AP Computer Science Principles

  • Length/credit: 1 year - 1.0 credit
  • Grade(s): 9, 10, 11, 12
  • Prerequisite: Students must have successfully completed Integrated Math1 or Algebra 1 to be eligible for this course.
  • Course Number: 03070804

This course introduces students to programming and coding along with various computer science applications including a multi-disciplinary approach to teaching the underlying principles of computation. The course introduces students to the creative aspects of programming, abstractions, algorithms, large data sets, the Internet, cybersecurity concerns and computing impacts. AP Computer Science Principles also gives students the opportunity to use current technologies to create computational artifacts for self-expression and problem solving.

AP Computer Science A

  • Length/credit: 1 year - 1.0 credit
  • Grade(s): 10, 11, 12
  • Prerequisite: It is recommended that students have a grade of “A” or “B” in Computer Science 2 H or AP Computer Science Principles.
  • Course Number: 03070304

AP Computer Science A prepares students to take the Advanced Placement examination in computer science. In the class, students learn object-oriented programming using Java. The topics include program design and definition, data types, algorithm development, modularization, methods, arrays, sorting and searching, classes, abstractions, and the AP Computer Science Case Study. Emphasis will be placed on problem solving, algorithm methodology, and the ability to debug and troubleshoot.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning H

  • Length/credit: 1 semester - 0.5 credit
  • Grade(s): 10, 11, 12
  • Prerequisite: Successful completion of AP Computer Science A.
  • Course Number: 03070603

This one semester elective course fosters students’ creativity and innovation by presenting opportunities to design, implement and present meaningful programs such as machine learning. This course provides a broad introduction to machine learning, datamining, and statistical pattern recognition. The course draws from numerous case studies and applications, so students learn how to apply learning algorithms to text understanding (web search, anti-spam), computer image detection, audio, datamining, and other areas. Students collaborate with one another, mentors from the community, and their instructor to solve the problems presented in the course.

Cybersecurity H

  • Length/credit: 1 semester - 0.5 credit
  • Grade(s): 10, 11, 12
  • Prerequisite: Successful completion of AP Computer Science A.
  • Course Number: 03070703

This one semester elective course provides learners with principles of data and technology that frame and define cybersecurity. Learners gain insight into the importance of cybersecurity and the integral role of cybersecurity professionals. The course provides a dynamic learning experience where users explore foundational cybersecurity principles, cryptography, security architecture, risk management, attacks, incidents, and emerging IT and IS technologies as well as explore and correct computer security vulnerabilities.

Computer Science Seminar H

  • Length/credit: 1 year - 1.0 credit
  • Grade(s): 10, 11, 12
  • Prerequisite: Successful completion of AP Computer Science A.
  • Course Number: 03070503

Students study advanced programming concepts including data structures such as stacks, hash tables and trees, application development using the Swift programming language, database design, and implementation of Graphical User Interfaces. Students are also given the opportunity to work collaboratively to explore other programming concepts that are of interest. This course fosters student creativity and innovation by presenting opportunities to design, implement, and present meaningful programs. Students collaborate with one another and their instructor to solve the problems presented throughout the course. Through data analysis, students identify task requirements and use computer science concepts to access, analyze, and evaluate information needed to solve problems. Students learn digital citizenship by researching current laws and regulations and by practicing integrity and respect.