1. Who are you?
My name is Michael Lew and I am an AP Computer Science teacher at Loyola High School in Los Angeles, CA (home of the Loyola Cubs, hence the name thecubscientist.com, in case you were wondering). I have been teaching this APCS since 1997, offering both the "A" and "AB" versions of the course . I have been an AP Computer Science reader and have been presenting at one-day and weeklong institutes for AP Computer Science for the last 5 years. My syllabus is published in the current AP Computer Science Teacher's Guide and I have soon to be published GridWorld project coming soon.

2. What should I know before I take one of these summer workshops?
You should have a basic knowledge of programming whether it be in Java that you learned this year or Fortran that you learned 20 years ago. In the workshop, I will go over teaching strategies/tools/methods and focus on the specifics of the Java 5 language that your students will need for the AP Exam.

3. Are there any books/tutorials that I can read/complete before taking the summer course if I need to brush up (or learn!) the basics of Java?
Yes, I recommend two books based on the type of reading you want to do...technical or conversational. For technical, I recommend "Java: How to Program" 7th Edition by Deitel. This is a pretty comprehensive coverage of Java. If you have little or no experience with Java, I would recommend "Head First Java", 2nd Edition by Sierra and Bates. It is a very light read, but very detailed and funny (in my opinion). It actually provides a coverage of Java consistent with the AP Exam. You can find both of these on Amazon.com or your local Barnes and Noble or Borders. You don't have to know every little detail of the language when you arrive for the summer institute, but you'll be better prepared if you do a little "homework" before the actual institute. I'll walk you through the intricacies of the language and the AP course language requirements at the institute.

4. What should I bring to the workshop?
Your laptop computer if possible (it is recommended) and an inquisitive mind! I have a general agenda of items to cover, but I will tailor the course to meet YOUR needs. Please bring all of your questions and I'll try my best to answer them all. You'll be taking home lots of printed resources (including books) so pack an extra bag for all of the stuff you'll take home.

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daily schedule