By Mia Hanuska
Entering this course with little to no computer science knowledge, students may feel worried about the content or pacing of the course. Fear not though, because computer science teacher Monica Perez handles this class perfectly. For the most part, you can be successful in this class by simply paying attention and completing the homework and classwork assignments. However, if you’re still worried about the class, here’s a rundown and some tips for the course.
A Typical Day
At the beginning of a new unit, the first part of each class will be taking lecture notes. You’ll do some examples with the notes, and once the notes are completed, you’ll follow Perez through some more practice and examples. Afterwards, there will be a few practice AP FRQs done in table groups or CodingBat assignments, then typically there’s extra time to start the homework. Homework is almost always one CodeHS subunit, unless there’s a unit test next class (then there’s also a practice test on Canvas).
Homework & Classwork Help
Most homework assignments are fairly straightforward, but if you need help, Perez is a great resource. Otherwise, Google can be great as well, although keep in mind that not everything will be correct.
Tests
The best way to study for tests is simply by completing the assigned work, and if Perez assigns any CollegeBoard quizzes, those are some of the best test-prep resources as the practice questions hold many similarities to the actual test questions. For FRQs, just remember that the code doesn’t actually have to run, it just has to get the points. Understanding the basics of how points are awarded can help, but honestly, just focus on knowing how to write a basic method/class and you’ll be fine.
AP Test Studying
Perez prepares her classes very well for the AP test, and provides plenty of great resources for studying. One I found helpful as well was APStudy.net as they have lots of practice MCQs that can help with the conceptual understanding.