IB Computer Science HL1 is year one of a two-year course designed to cover the International Baccalaureate Organization's Computer Science High Level (HL) curriculum. The following topics are covered: computational thinking and problem-solving, a college-level introduction to the Java programming language, object-oriented programming (OOP), abstract data types, computer architecture fundamentals, computer networks, database programming with Structured Query Language (SQL), machine learning, designing and implementing a computational solution, and a case study focusing on emerging technologies.
Year 1 will focus on the Java programming language, object-oriented programming, and designing and implementing computational solutions. Year 2 will focus on abstract data types, computer architecture, networks, databases, machine learning, and the case study.
The Standard Level (SL) and HL courses both provide students with an understanding of computer science through the organizing concept of computational thinking and the practical use of skills in computer science to solve problems. HL students study the topics in more depth and breadth. Prior exposure to computer programming is required for HL students.
Prerequisites
Successful completion of a prior programming course with a grade of B or better. Open to all Grade 11 W-L students who meet the prerequisites.
This course is year 1 of a two-year sequence and prepares students for the required Higher Level IB assessments in Computer Science at the end of the course of study. Students will complete an Internal Assessment and sit for External Assessments (papers/exams). This IB course is weighted by applying an additional 1.0 quality point value assigned to the final grade upon completion of the course. This course earns a Career and Technical/Fine Arts credit. Segments of this course will be taught online, thereby satisfying the graduation requirement for a virtual course.