ICS3U

Introduction to Computer Science

Course Title: Introduction to Computer Science, Grade 11, University Preparation (ICS3U)
Course Name: Introduction to Computer Science
Course Code: ICS3U
Grade: 11
Course Type: University Preparation
Credit Value: 1.0
Prerequisite: None
Curriculum Policy Document: Computer Studies, The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 10 to 12, 2008 (Revised)
Course Developer: Elite High School
Department: Computer Studies
Development Date: 2004
Most Recent Revision Date: 2009
Tuition Fee (CAD): $579

Course Title: Introduction to Computer Science, Grade 11, University Preparation (ICS3U)
Course Name: Introduction to Computer Science
Course Code: ICS3U
Grade: 11
Course Type: University Preparation
Credit Value: 1.0
Prerequisite: None
Curriculum Policy Document: Computer Studies, The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 10 to 12, 2008 (Revised)
Course Developer: Elite High School
Department: Computer Studies
Development Date: 2004
Most Recent Revision Date: 2009
Tuition Fee (CAD): $729

Course Description

This course introduces students to computer science. Students will design software independently and as part of a team, using industry-standard programming tools and applying the software development life-cycle model. They will also write and use subprograms within computer programs. Students will develop creative solutions for various types of problems as their understanding of the computing environment grows. They will also explore environmental and ergonomic issues, emerging research in computer science, and global career trends in computer-related fields.

Summary Of Units And Timeline

Below is the suggested sequence of course unit delivery as well as the recommended number of hours to complete the respective unit. For complete details of targeted expectations within each unit and activity, please see each Unit Overview found in the ICS3U course profile.

UNIT ONE: Computer Systems

Essential Question: How do the different components of a computer interact to enable the programming of computer software?
  • In this unit, students will learn about different types of computer hardware and how computer software interacts with that hardware.

UNIT TWO: Solving Problems Using Math Algorithms

Essential Question: How do we create mathematical algorithms to solve problems with a computer programming language?
  • In this unit, students will learn about how to solve simple problems by collecting, manipulating, and outputting data using a computer programming language.

UNIT THREE: Solving Problems Using Control Structures

Essential Question: How do we get software to change the flow of control in an algorithm?
  • In this unit, students will learn how to use selection structures to make programs make decisions, and repetition structures to make programs execute code multiple times.

UNIT FOUR: Solving Problems Using List Structures

Essential Question: How can we efficiently store and manipulate large amounts of data within computer software?
  • In this unit, students will learn how to use lists and arrays to store, organize, process, and output large amounts of data.

UNIT FIVE: Solving Problems Using Modular Programming

Essential Question: How do we take complex computer science problems and break them down into small manageable tasks?
  • In this unit, students will learn how to use top-down problem-solving methods and write functions in a computer programming language.

UNIT SIX: Trends in Computer Science

Essential Question: What types of careers and emerging technologies exist in the field of computer science?
  • In this unit, students will learn about computer programming related careers, be introduced to the field of artificial intelligence, and examine the environmental impact of computer technology.

CULMINATING PROJECT

15% of Final Grade
  • This project is one of the final evaluations of ICS3U online. This project will challenge students to use all the concepts they have learned throughout this course and is worth 15% of the final grade.

FINAL EXAM

Proctored Exam

15% of Final Grade
  • This exam is the final evaluation of ICS3U. All coursework should be completed and submitted before writing the final exam, please be advised that once the exam is written, any outstanding coursework will be given a grade of zero. The exam will be two hours. There are two options for taking the exam:
  • WRITE EXAM AT ELITE HIGH SCHOOL CAMPUS: If you live close to Elite High School Campus, or if you attend Elite High School Campus, you can take your exam there. You will receive a confirmation email with next steps and exam information once your exam date is scheduled.The exam can be rescheduled or cancelled with a reasonable proof in case of a medical emergency.
  • USE EXAMITY PROCTORING SERVICE: For a fee of 22 USD*, students can arrange to take their exam in the comfort of their own home, at any time, on any day. Please select Examity Exam in the exam section of your course to set up your Examity profile and schedule your exam. Exams must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance. *Price is subject to change.
  • Please email exams@elitehighschool.com if you need assistance.

Units Length

UNIT ONE: Computer Systems

 16 hours

UNIT TWO: Solving Problems Using Math Algorithms

 16 hours

UNIT THREE: Solving Problems Using Control Structures

 16 hours

UNIT FOUR: Solving Problems Using List Structures

 18 hours

UNIT FIVE: Solving Problems Using Modular Programming

 16 hours

UNIT SIX: Trends in Computer Science

 18 hours

CULMINATING PROJECT

 8 hours

FINAL EXAM

 2 hours
  Total: 110 hours