​OVERVIEW OF THE PROGRAM

The computer studies program comprises courses in Grades 10, 11, and 12. Two types of
courses are offered in the program: university preparation and open
courses. The course types are defined as follows:

• University preparation courses are designed to equip students with the knowledge
and skills they need to meet the entrance requirements for university programs.
• Open courses are designed to broaden students’ knowledge and skills in subjects
that reflect their interests and to prepare them for active and rewarding participation
in society. They are not designed with the specific requirements of universities,
colleges, or the workplace in mind.

The program in computer studies offers a variety of courses to help students develop a
deeper understanding of the world of computer science and computer programming, and
to help focus their interests in this area.

The Grade 10 open course will appeal to any student interested in exploring how computers
are used to solve problems. The course provides students with the opportunity to
develop the logical thinking processes used in designing computer solutions to problems
and to acquire basic computer programming skills that will enable them to create a working
computer program.

University preparation courses provide students with a foundation in the broad spectrum
of computer science concepts and applications. In these courses, students explore the
theoretical underpinnings of computer science; design software, working independently
and as part of a team and using industry-standard programming tools and the software
development life-cycle model; and investigate various computer science–related topics,
such as cryptography and artificial intelligence.

Courses in Computer Studies, Grades 10–12

Introduction to Computer
Studies, Grade 10
Open ICS2O

This course introduces students to computer programming. Students will plan and write
simple computer programs by applying fundamental programming concepts, and learn
to create clear and maintainable internal documentation. They will also learn to manage
a computer by studying hardware configurations, software selection, operating system
functions, networking, and safe computing practices. Students will also investigate the
social impact of computer technologies, and develop an understanding of environmental
and ethical issues related to the use of computers.
Prerequisite: None

Introduction to Computer
Science, Grade 11
University Preparation ICS3U

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.
Prerequisite: None

Computer Science,
Grade 12
University Preparation ICS4U

This course enables students to further develop knowledge and skills in computer
science. Students will use modular design principles to create complex and fully documented
programs, according to industry standards. Student teams will manage a large
software development project, from planning through to project review. Students will
also analyse algorithms for effectiveness. They will investigate ethical issues in computing
and further explore environmental issues, emerging technologies, areas of research
in computer science, and careers in the field.
Prerequisite: Introduction to Computer Science, Grade 11, University Preparation

For more info contact albert.krnic@yrdsb.edu.on.ca