CS110, Computing and Information Science I

Fall Term, 2009 (3 credits)

Section 2, Tues. Thurs. 10:00-11:15 PHYS1

____________________________________________________________________________________

INSTRUCTOR: Dr. Cynthia J. Martincic

OFFICE HOURS: M W 11:00am-12:30pm, T R 11:30am-1:00pm, Other times by appointment or “drop-in”.

OFFICE: 202 Physics Building

PHONE: 724-805-2418 or x2418

EMAIL: cynthia.martincic@email.stvincent.edu

____________________________________________________________________________________

PREREQUISITES: None

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

This course is an introduction to problem solving and computer programming using C++. Topics include algorithms, program structure, input/output, modularity and parameters, control structures, data abstraction, arrays, text files and structured programming techniques. Successful completion of this course will require the completion of weekly assignments, in-class labs, quizzes and two tests and a comprehensive final exam.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES AND ASSESSMENT:

Upon completion of this course the student should:

• Be familiar with basic programming constructs such as decision and repetition.
• Be able to write programs using good programming style and practices.
• Be comfortable with the concept of modular programming, writing functions and using classes.
• Be able to write, compile, test, trace and debug relatively small C++ programs.
• Be familiar with the basic data types in C++ and the concept of classes, class hierarchies, objects and methods.

These objectives will be assessed mainly through the use of homework assignments, in-class work, quizzes and exams.

TEXT: PROBLEM SOLVING WITH C++ 7th Ed., Savitch, W. (2009) Addison-Wesley Publishing Company ISBN 0-321-53134-5.

ADDITIONAL READINGS:

Additional readings and examples are at cis.stvincent.edu/swd/basic. Other readings may be assigned and will be available from the instructor, online or in the library. The SVC Blackboard site will be used for this class. It may be accessed at cms.stvincent.edu.

GRADING:

Assignments, In-class Lab Work, Quizzes, Class Participation: 50%

Exams: 50% (The number of points on exams increases with each exam)

GRADING SCALE:

The final grading scale may be curved at the discretion of the instructor, but in order to monitor your progress during the term, you should assume the SVC grading scale as printed in the College Bulletin. Curved grades will result in the same or higher letter grade than that achieved solely by the percentages above. For example, an earned B may become a B+. The curve depends upon the performance of the class as a whole as well as individual in-class participation and perceived effort. NOTE: If a student does not attain a passing average in the exam category, that student will receive a failing grade for the course.