Computer Science

Computer Science — Grade 9

American Curriculum · Ages 14-15

Ninth grade computer science is commonly an introductory high school course or AP Computer Science Principles. Students program with confidence in Python or JavaScript, using functions, lists, dictionaries, file handling and libraries, and follow a full design, build, test and evaluate cycle.

AP CSP additionally covers the internet and its architecture, data and information, algorithms and abstraction, and the global impact of computing — assessed by an end-of-course exam and a Create Performance Task built and documented by the student.

Key topics covered

• Programming Fundamentals — Functions, lists, dictionaries, file handling and using libraries.
• Algorithms & Abstraction — Designing algorithms and using abstraction to manage complexity.
• Data & Information — How data is collected, stored, compressed and turned into information.
• The Internet — Architecture, protocols, fault tolerance and cybersecurity.
• Create Performance Task — Building and documenting an original program for AP CSP.
• Impacts of Computing — Beneficial and harmful effects, bias in computing and digital divide.