In previous computer science courses you learned programming using the high-level programming language C++. High-level languages are designed to specify programs without regard to the machine on which the program runs. Thus programmers need not be concerned with the details of coding and arranging information or specifying operations in a manner that is understood by the machine.
In this course we will take a look behind the scenes. We will see how machines code the various kinds of data and instructions, how they handle input and output, how they implement control structures, how they are organized using logic circuits, and how system software provides an interface to computer systems.
| Item | Points | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Midterm Exam 1 | 100 | 20% |
| Midterm Exam 2 | 100 | 20% |
| Final Exam | 150 | 30% |
| Programming Assignments (8) | 80 | 16% |
| Homework (13) | 70 | 14% |
| Total | 500 | 100% |
The final grades will be based on the 500 point total. Generally:
These grade cutoffs will never be raised; but they may be lowered.
| Exam | Coverage | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Midterm Exam 1 | Ch. 1, 2, App. A | Wednesday, October 7 |
| Midterm Exam 2 | Ch. 3, 4, App. B | Monday, November 16 |
| Final Exam | Ch. 5-7‡ | Friday December 18, 2:00PM — 3:55PM |
‡ Approximately 30% of the final exam will be over material covered on the midterm exams.