Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2025 - CMPT 120 D300

Introduction to Computing Science and Programming I (3)

Class Number: 5419

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Wed, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 9, 2025
    Tue, 7:00–10:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Dec 9, 2025
    Tue, 7:00–10:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Dec 9, 2025
    Tue, 7:00–10:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    BC Math 12 or equivalent is recommended.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An elementary introduction to computing science and computer programming, suitable for students with little or no programming background. Students will learn fundamental concepts and terminology of computing science, acquire elementary skills for programming in a high-level language, e.g. Python. The students will be exposed to diverse fields within, and applications of computing science. Topics will include: pseudocode; data types and control structures; fundamental algorithms; recursion; reading and writing files; measuring performance of algorithms; debugging tools; basic terminal navigation using shell commands. Treatment is informal and programming is presented as a problem-solving tool. Students with credit for CMPT 102, 128, 130 or 166 may not take this course for further credit. Students who have taken CMPT 125, 129, 130 or 135 first may not then take this course for further credit. Quantitative/Breadth-Science.

COURSE DETAILS:

Topics

  • Algorithms and computational thinking
  • Procedural programming in Python
  • Data types and control structures
  • Application areas within computing science
  • Fundamental algorithms, including searching, sorting, basics of recursion
  • Computability and complexity, introduction
  • Basics of binary encoding

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Learning outcomes will be presented and explained in class.

Grading

NOTES:

Marks will be determined based on a combination of coding assignment, other activities submitted online, as well as multiple written, in-class, in-person assessments.

A more detailed course marking scheme (grading) will be provided and discussed during the first week of classes. A course policy on the use of generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Copilot will also be discussed.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Details of technology and tools needed in this course will be discussed during class. Students will need access to a computing device that can write Python code. We will do live, in-class coding activities together so students are encouraged (but not strictly required) to have a laptop or device with keyboard that is usable in a lecture hall. 

We will read from a free online textbook https://runestone.academy/ns/books/published/thinkcspy/index.html as well as materials distributed directly to students via the instructor. No hardcopy reference materials are required.

Optional books that may be useful:

  • Computer Science Illuminated, Nell Dale, John Lewis, Jones & Bartlett, 2012, 9781449672843
  • Starting out with Programming Logic and Design, Tony Gaddis, Pearson, 2015, 9780133985078
  • Starting Out with Python-4th Edition, Tony Gaddis, Pearson, 2017, 9780134543666

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

The following are default policies in the School of Computing Science. Please check your course syllabus whether the instructor has chosen a different policy for your class, otherwise the following policies apply.
 
  • Students must attain an overall passing grade on the weighted average of exams in the course in order to get a C- or higher.
  • All student requests for accommodations for their religious practices must be made in writing by the end of the first week of classes, or no later than one week after a student adds a course. After considering a request, an instructor may provide a concession or may decline to do so. Students requiring accommodations as a result of a disability can contact the Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca).

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.