Welcome to the GHS Computer Science home page - my name is Scott Benschneider.  Here you will find information and useful links related to the following courses:                                                                                             

    Computer Science I, AP Computer Science I (A), AP Computer Science II (AB), Technology Independent Study

Contact Information:

• 943-5100 x7354
• benschneiders@georgetownisd.org
• Conference Periods:  A days:  2nd (10:25-noon), B days:  8th (after 2:15)

Class Schedule:

• Computer Science I (1st, 4th, and 7th Periods)

            This course is an introduction to Computer Science concepts with a focus on creating solutions related to 3D animation, games, and manipulation of sound, text, pictures, and movies.  Students will learn programmatic problem solving using Alice and Java as tools.  No prior computer science knowledge is required, and the course does satisfy the Technology credit.

• AP Computer Science A (5th Period)

            This course is an introduction to computer science topics, with a focus on object-oriented software development using the Java programming language, all in preparation for the AP Computer Science A exam (i.e. college credit!).  There will be a vast number of hands-on programming labs where students create real-life applications that will include windows components and graphics. The course concludes with a group programming project.  This course satisfies the Technology credit, can serve as a 4th Math credit, and is a requirement to AP Computer Science AB.

• AP Computer Science AB (3rd Period)

            AP Computer Science AB is a follow-on to AP Computer Science A that covers the remainder of topics required by the College Board to cover the Computer Science AB Curricula.  The course begins with a review of APCS A topics, followed by enhanced topics in object-oriented programming and a major focus on data structures.  Passing the AP Computer Science AB exam in May can provide college credit at colleges and universities throughout the country.  The course concludes with a group programming project. This course satisfies the Technology credit and can serve as a 4th Math credit.

• Technology Independent Study (6th Period)

            This course is an independent study course in which students research, propose, and pursue technology projects of their choosing.  It will be conducted much like a real-world business in which projects are documented and planned, timelines are set and maintained, and project status is communicated frequently to supervisors (the instructor).  Projects can be development undertakings or revolve around research and learning, and can be based in the fields of programming, web development, multimedia, hardware, networking, etc.

Education & Teaching Background - Scott Benschneider:

• B.S. Computer Science/Physics, University of Dayton, 1987
• 2nd year at GHS
• 2006-07:  Tortolita Middle School, Marana (AZ) USD, 8th Grade Math
• 2003-2006:  Frisco H.S., Frisco ISD, Computer Science, Computer Maintenance
• 2002-03:  MacArthur H.S., Irving ISD, Computer Science, Computer Applications

Georgetown Independent School District

Last updated:  08/20/08 03:09 PM