Visual Basic Syllabus

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Paul Bui
E-mail: BuiEmail.bmp
Phone: 703.228.6200 (ask for the call to be forwarded to Mr. Bui)
Website: http://paulbui.net/wl/index.php?title=Visual_Basic

Description

In this course we will study the fundamental aspects of programming and computer science. We will learn programming concepts using the Visual Basic programming language. Students will complete a variety of class activities and programming assignments to facilitate their understanding of the course material.

Organization

Class time will be divided between lecture and lab. I will lecture at the beginning of the class period, and the remaining time will be used for lab. The course will be structured such that all assignments, materials, and resources may be found on the course website.

Grades will follow the following guidelines. Please make note of the grading scale because grades will not be rounded up.

Grade Weights
Grade Scale

70%    Labs & Assignments
20%    Tests & Quizzes
10%    Class Performance

A    90 – 100
B    80 – 89.999999
C    70 – 79.999999
D    60 – 69.999999
E    0 – 59.999999

Labs & Assignments

Labs are a fundamental part of this course, and there will be many labs throughout each quarter. Some labs will cover only a few days, while others may take several weeks. All lab assignments will be posted on the course website, along with detailed instructions and due dates. I am available for help during second lunch or after school upon request. Labs may also be completed on a home computer. Late assignments will be accepted with a penalty of 5% each day, after the due date.

Program Dossier

The program dossier is the internal assessment component of the IB examination. Students will address a single problem and solve it using computer systems. The analysis and development of the entire system will be well-documented and graded. Guidance through each section of the dossier will be provided, and will be periodically collected for grading. By the end of the year, the final system as well as the dossier shall be completed and submitted for final review.

Tests & Quizzes

There will be tests and quizzes throughout the year. Makeup quizzes are allowed provided that there is an excused absence. Tests and quizzes will be structured similarly; quizzes however will be shorter in length. Tests will generally be given after the completion of each major unit.

Class Performance

Students are expected to discuss topics and concepts during both whole-class discussions and small group discussions. When we are working on a lab or assignment, students are to stay on task by either working on their assignment, or by assisting another student with their assignment. Tardiness and unexcused absences will take away from class performance.

Topics

  • Linux operating system
  • User interface design
  • Solving computing problems
  • Visual Basic programming
    • Variables, types, operators, input/output
    • Conditional statements
    • Iteration (Looping)
    • Functions
    • etc.
  • Software development
  • History of computing

Textbook & Supplies

Microsoft Visual Basic 2005 for Windows, Mobile, Web, Office, and Database Applications by Gary Shelly, Thomas Cashman, & Corinne Hoisington

Students are *not* required to have a computer at home; however, they will be expected to be able to access a computer using other means (school, library, etc.).

Lab Schedule

If you wish to schedule time in the lab during lunch or after school, please e-mail or come talk to me.

Expectations

Students are expected to follow the Acceptable Use Policy (http://www2.apsva.us/aps/lib/aps/_shared/School%20Board%20Policies/45-2.1_Acceptable_Use.PIP.pdf) as well as other school policies

Remember the Three Rs:

  • Respect me
    • Please arrive on time
    • Avoid conversing with your neighbor during my lecture time
  • Respect others
    • Be mindful of your neighbors’ workspace
    • During work time (not quiz/test time), you are encouraged to help others, but please DO NOT do their work
  • Respect the lab
    • No food or drink
    • Keep the lab clean – no trash!
    • The lab is used by 5 classes, so please leave it in the same condition or better when class is over
      • Clean up the workspace
      • Straighten the keyboard and mouse
      • Push in the chair

Infractions will be followed by warnings, lunch detention, after-school detention, Saturday detention, or by an administrative referral and parent/guardian conference

Agreement Signature

Please sign below and return this page to Mr. Bui to indicate that you read and understand the course’s policies and expectations.

________________________________
Student’s name (Please print)

________________________________
Student’s signature / date

________________________________
Parent’s/Guardian’s name (Please print)

________________________________
Parent’s/Guardian’s signature / date