Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2025 - CMPT 120 D100

Introduction to Computing Science and Programming I (3)

Class Number: 5343

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 2:30–3:20 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:


This course will be offered in person, face-to-face. Details of technology and tools needed in class and for tests will be provided the first class of the semester. All the course information and communication will be centralized in the Canvas course website which will be available by the first day of class, including class materials, readings, assignments, points and course policies. Students should ensure that they receive notifications when announcements are posted on Canvas. 
In case class(es) must be taught remotely, students must have access to a computer with internet access, allowing the use of a conferencing system such as Zoom.

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

Grading

NOTES:

There will be assignments and multiple quizzes/exams.
A more detailed marking scheme and technology details will be provided in the first class of the semester.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Reference Books

Reference books are provided for your interest and are not required. Newer versions if available would be fine as well.
  • 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:

Think Python - How to Think Like a Computer Scientist: Interactive Edition https://runestone.academy/runestone/books/published/thinkcspy/index.html, , This interactive text is available online for free

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.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

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.