AP CS Principles is a broader, introductory course covering internet security, data analytics, and basic coding using languages like Scratch or Python. It works pretty well as a first class in coding. AP CS A focuses more on object-oriented programming using Java and is more difficult for students who haven’t coded before.
Prior experience is not absolutely required, but a strong foundation in basic algebra and logical thinking is highly recommended. If you have no prior experience coding, I recommend start with AP CS Principles.
For AP CS A, we’ll use Java to match the College Board curriculum. For AP CS Principles, I primarily focus on JavaScript or Python as well as pseudo-code practice.
We dedicate significant time to handwriting code on paper, interpreting compiler errors mentally, and analyzing past College Board FRQ rubrics to maximize partial credit.
I understand it’s not always possible to pay for tutoring throughout the year, but it’s really important that you start tutoring as soon as possible. That’s because the programming concepts you’ll encounter later in the year build on a deep understanding of the earlier concepts.
Your teacher will probably recommend an IDE (integrated development environment) such as BlueJay, IntelliJ, or Eclipse. We will use whatever they recommend. And, we’ll also use an IDE called Replit because it allows us to code together at the same time.
Yes, we’ll use some practice exams available online. When we practice a problem, I’ll ask you try to solve it on your own first. You can “take in” more of the problem that way. If you’re confused, I’ll explain the problem by breaking it down and having you practice individual steps.
My full fee is $90, but I have a sliding fee policy. For need-based cases, we can negotiate a lower price. I ask for payment at the end of each lesson. If you need to cancel, you must give me 24 hours notice, or the payment is still due. However, you can cancel at any time for emergencies or sickness, and you don’t need to pay.
You can choose whether you want remote or in-person tutoring. (Although I recommend in-person one-on-one tutoring; it’s always more effective.) For families near Pasadena, I don’t charge extra to go to your house. If you are further away, I’ll add a small amount to the fee, usually about $20.
