La Cañada High School

Mathematics Department

Course Guidelines

Teacher:  Mr. Clausen                       email:  dclausen@lcusd.net

Subject: Honors Computer Science                     

Web Site: http://www.clausentech.com/lchs/dclausen/cs_cpp_hnr/

General Course Description   (from pre-registration handbook)

This course assumes some prior knowledge of computers.  It develops a working knowledge of the computer itself, and the MS-DOS and Windows operating systems.  The emphasis of the course content is devoted to programming in the Standard C++ language.   There will be a focus on the Structured Programming style of programming and problem solving.  Problem solving will be focused on problems and ideas from previous math courses.  We will include in our study of the C++ language:  the Turbo C++ environment, statements, commands, input, output, variables, constants, standard types, branching, indefinite loops, definite loops, functions, debugging, recursion, arrays, user defined types, structs, searching, sorting, programming style, graphics, classes, a case study, and files.  This course will prepare the student for AP Computer Science Java.

Preparation:  Algebra I, Algebra II and Geometry with grades of C+ or better (B or better for Algebra II), Computer Science with a grade of B- or better (or instructor approval) typing 25 wpm or better (or a grade of C or better in keyboarding), satisfactory score on math diagnostic tests, good writing and communication skills (especially essay writing skills), knowledge of IBM compatible computers, including MS-DOS and  Windows, instructor recommendation, and previous programming experience.  If a student does not have any previous programming experience, it is strongly recommended that they take Computer Science as preparation.

Behavior/Citizenship expectations

INDIVIDUALLY, A STUDENT WILL:

1.        Not prevent the teacher from teaching nor disrupt the teaching process.

2.        Not prevent a student from learning nor disrupt the learning process.

3.        Not communicate with other students during a test or quiz until everyone has finished, and the last test or quiz is turned in.

4.        Be respectful of others.

5.        Arrive to class on time (3 unexcused tardies per quarter will result in a citizenship grade of “N”, 4 or more unexcused tardies per quarter will result in a citizenship grade of “U”-see student handbook).

6.        Remain in his/her seat until the bell rings.

7.        Not eat food, gum, candy, nor anything to drink are allowed in the room – see student handbook.  Water in a container with a closed lid is okay.

8.        Not copy anyone else’s work, or have their work in your possession.

Citizenship grade policy (Math Department)

Discipline

Students needing correction will be given detentions as needed, parent phone calls, and/or referrals as necessary.

Letter Grade Policy

90.0-100%                A

80.0-89.9%                B

70.0-79.9%                C

60.0-69.9%                D

0-59.9%                     F

Grades are not weighted in this class.  A student’s grade is calculated as the number of points they have earned in the class divided by the total number of points possible.  In this class, graded activities will include tests, computer programs, and homework.  Homework is used to reinforce important concepts from class.  A list of all homework assignments for the school year can be found on my school web site listed above.  Homework is due 2 days before the test on the same chapter.  Late homework will be accepted for half credit within one week of normal due date.  Test dates will be posted on my school web site.

Materials to be brought to class

1.                    Pencils, eraser, pen, notebook paper, graph paper.

2.                    Three ring notebook in which you will keep all work and handouts

3.                    Scientific calculator, (very helpful, but not required for this course)

4.                    COVERED textbook                 

Rules concerning late work including tests.

In the case of illness, the school handbook rule of  “one day for every day absent plus one” will apply to turning in homework and making up tests and quizzes.  The definition of “day” above for this class will mean a calendar school day using only Mondays – Fridays (not including school holidays).

Work turned in later than the number of days + 1 will be accepted ONLY at the discretion of the teacher, and will receive less credit than work turned in on time.  Tests and other work not made up in a timeframe consistent with the school handbook will receive a grade of zero.

Assessment

Student assessment includes but is not limited to homework assignments and Chapter Tests.  Each student is required to keep their assignments in a three ring binder / portfolio, which are periodically evaluated, and are kept by the student.  Tests are given at the end of every Chapter or Unit.  The instructor reviews these Chapter Tests with students during a class period after every student has completed or made up the test.  A sample test is available on Mr. Clausen’s web site.  Grades are calculated using the Pinnacle Grade book program in order that students and their parents may look up their grades on the Internet.  This course will comply with current Governing Board Policy regarding the sending home of tests.

Study tips

Keep a list of daily assignments.

If absent, be sure to pick up the handout and get the assignments.

Do all assignments as soon as possible, finishing them the day assigned for homework. 

Spend at least 45 minutes daily on homework.

If absent, get the make up work done in a timely manner.  This is your responsibility.

Get help when difficulty first arises—don’t wait until it is too late.

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