COMPUTER ARCHITECTURE
Spring Semester 2001

GOALS: The student in Computer Architecture will
   * write well documented, structured programs in Object Oriented C++ and Java 
   * compare the major differences between C, C++, and Java 
   * write well documented, structured programs in assembly language 
   * study the hierarchical organization of computer systems from the digital 
     logic level, through microprogram and assembly language, to operating 
     systems and high level language implementation
   * study the multitasking capabilities of the UNIX operating system
   * investigate high performance computing concepts such as vectorization, 
     parallelization, and distributed processing 

DESCRIPTION: Computer Architecture is an intensive half-credit semester course
requiring AP computer science as a prerequisite. Students are expected to apply
structured programming techniques and data structures learned in APCS as they 
explore the internal organization of advanced computer systems. Programs are 
designed to reinforce basic curriculum objectives with special emphasis on 
program development in a networked UNIX environment. Students will write 
programs on various computer systems in Object Oriented C++, as well as Java, 
ANSI C and SPIM assembly language.  Progress on programs should be submitted 
electronically each week. The final version of working source code must be 
submitted electronically as well as in printed format including full 
documentation, example runs, written discussion, and required teacher
signature. This course has been approved for extra grade point value.
 
GRADING: The student's grade will be determined by performance on tests, 
quizzes, homework, and programming projects. The grading scale is that 
approved by Fairfax County Public Schools: 
       A 94% - 100%         C 74% - 79% 
       B+ 90% - 93%         D+ 70% - 73% 
       B 84% - 89%          D 64% - 69% 
       C+ 80% - 83%         F BELOW 64% 

Grades will be computed on a point basis with possible points varying with 
respect to assignment difficulty.  Students who develop innovative enhancements
to basic assignments may receive additional bonus credit. At the end of each 
nine-week grading period, the total number of points earned will be divided by 
the total possible points. The resulting percentage will yield the letter 
grade for the term. At the end of the semester, the final mark will be
computed using an average based on the two quarter grades and the semester exam.

ATTENDANCE: Any work missed during an excused absence should be made up,
although the responsibility rests solely with the student. Any work missed 
during an unexcused absence may be made up, but in accordance with Fairfax 
County Public School Policy, no credit can be given for that work. It should be
noted that three unexcused absences during a grading period will result in an 
F for that term. 

EXTRA HELP: Mrs. Rittman and Mr. Latimer will be available 8th period or after i
school.