Mr. Merlis                                                                                                                               Java 1

jmerlis@bhbl.org                                                                                                                      2008-2009

www.mrmerlis.com                                                                                                                   BHBL High School

 

Course Description

This is an introductory programming course using the Java programming language.  The intent of this course is to provide you with a fun, hands-on experience in computer programming.  A lot of time in class will be spent with you on the computers, ‘programming away!’  We will move from drawing with turtles to creating an intelligent CD player.  Towards the end of the semester, we’ll take a look at money – all of this in a programming context, of course.  There will be programming, reading, and writing assignments. 

 

Grading

Grades will be based on a simple point system.  Point values will be assigned to homework, programming assignments, daily exercises, written assignments, quizzes, and tests.  A student’s final grade will be the ratio of earned points to possible points.  Homework is assigned rarely, although if you are falling behind, you should take advantage of this time to stay current with your work.

 

Organization

Staying organized is the number one most important thing you can do to ensure success within this class, within your other classes, and your entire life.  Be sure to not only organize the handouts and paperwork from this class, but your personal computer system and files as well.  This translates straight into what will you be graded on, particularly the naming conventions and style of your programs.

 

Materials / Supplies

  • 3 ring Binder
  • Loose-leaf paper
  • Graph paper
  • Pencils
  • Calculator (This is helpful although you can always use the one on the computer.)

 

Attendance

  • You are required to attend class.
  • If you are late to class, you are required to have a pass upon entering the room.
  • If you legally miss a day of school, it is expected that you will check the website to stay current with the projects.  Falling behind in a class like this can be very difficult to overcome.

 

Participation

A must! We are going to have a great time – this is one of the very few classes where your uniqueness and creativity truly have an opportunity to flourish.

 

Extra Help

  • You can come during the Academic Assistance Period every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday
  • During Learning Lab
  • Tutors are available through the Guidance Department
  • By emailing me, using www.mrmerlis.com, or searching on the Internet.

 

PROTECTION OF MACHINES/SOFTWARE

It is VITAL that you respect the machines. They are only to be used for class-related purposes. If you violate this simple to follow rule, you will be punished and possibly removed from the course. If you don’t think you should do it, don’t.