Saint John's Curriculum

Computer Science

  • Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms (ADV)

    This course will provide an in-depth exploration of fundamental data structures essential for organizing and managing program data.  Students will explore in detail data structures such as arrays, linked lists, stacks, queues, hash tables, trees, graphs, heaps, and priority queues.  Emphasis will be placed on understanding the Java Collections framework, implementing custom versions of these structures, and integrating them into practical programs.  The course also highlights the critical skill of analyzing algorithmic efficiency, including Big-O notation and empirical performance measurements, to help students make informed decisions about data structure usage in real-world scenarios.

  • CompSci I - Intro to Java (H)

    This course is intended for students with little to no previous programming experience, and introduces problem-solving methods and algorithm development using Java, one of the most popular high-level programming languages in the world. Students will learn how to design, code, debug, and document programs using modern programming. Students will learn how to create classes, objects, and applications using the Java language. The course will cover the basics of programming, integrate input and output, calculations, decision making, and loops. Whether you just want to try out programming to see if you like it or plan to do more with Java, this is a great place to start!

    Specific topic coverage includes:

    • Creating Your First Java Classes
    • Using Data within a Program
    • Using Methods, Classes, and Objects  
    • More Object Concepts
    • Making Decisions
    • Looping

  • CompSci II - Java Graphics (H)

    This course will build on the Introduction to Computer Science Using Java and cover how to build an effective graphical user interface (GUI) using objects from the javax.swing and java.awt packages. Students will learn a new style of program control called event-driven programming. Students will also learn about other upgraded capabilities, including Swing controls, layout managers, and events, as well as new capabilities not readily available in AWT package.

  • Computer Science A (AP)

    This full-year course emphasizes object-oriented programming methodology with a concentration on problem solving and algorithm development, and is meant to be the equivalent of a first-semester college-level course in computer science. It also includes the study of data structures, design, and abstraction.

    Students will be able to:

    • design and implement solutions to problems by writing, running, and debugging computer programs.
    • use and implement commonly used algorithms and data structures.
    • develop and select appropriate algorithms and data structures to solve problems.
    • code fluently in an object-oriented paradigm using the programming language Java. Students are expected to be familiar with and be able to use standard Java library classes from the AP Java subset.
    • read and understand a large program consisting of several classes and interacting objects. Students should be able to read and understand a description of the design and development process leading to such a program
    • recognize the ethical and social implications of computer use.
    Prerequisite: CompSci I Intro to Java (H)

  • Computer Science Principles (AP)

    The AP Computer Science Principles course is designed to be equivalent to a one semester introductory college computing course. Unlike the AP Computer Science A course, which focuses on the science of programming using the Java Programming Language, the Principles course will discuss the big-picture view of computing. Students will be introduced to the creative aspects of programming, abstrations, algorithms and large data sets, explore cybersecurity and how computing impacts our world. Students will develop the computational thinking skills vital for success across all disciplines and will develop effective communication and collaboration skills by working individually and collaboratively to solve problems. Students will discuss and write about the impacts these solutions could have on their community, society, and the world.  The course is designed to engage students from diverse backgrounds and those new to computing and will focus on the core ideas that shape the landscape of computer science and its impact on our society. 
     

  • Graphic Design (1)

     
    In Graphic Design, students will explore, through lecture and hands-on projects, the many ways that design thinking has become a powerful force today. Students will use Adobe's CC Suite software – InDesign CC, Illustrator CC and Photoshop CC. This course focuses on the skills commonly used in the graphic communication and design industries. During the course, students will explore and develop the overall layout and production design of magazines, newspapers, journals, brochures, and other publications. Basic typography and design will also be addressed and students will gain an understanding of how the three programs work together to create products for print and digital media.

  • Webpage Design (H)

    This introductory course will teach students the principles of website layout, design, and implementation using programming languages such as HTML, and JavaScript. Students will incorporate text and graphics to produce functional and attractive webpages using Microsoft FrontPage, Macromedia Dreamweaver, and other software. No programming experience is required.

    Prerequisite: Introduction to Computer Applications

  • Webpage Design II (H)

    This course will elaborate on building websites and introduce students to the JavaScript language. It will enable students to move beyond static webpages into dynamic ones that can take user input, show changing data, and communicate between the server and client sides of the Internet. Students will leave the class having created several dynamic, interactive websites with JavaScript components. Prerequisites: Webpage Design I or Departmental Approval

Connect with Us

Saint John's High School

378 Main Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01545    (508) 842-8934
Saint John’s High School has educated young men under the sponsorship of the Xaverian Brothers since 1898. Through the Saint John’s strong college preparatory curriculum, over 900 students in grades seven through twelve pursue personal and intellectual growth in an environment that is committed to the development of the whole person and recognizes a moral dimension of life through service to God and to others.