ICS3U
Introduction to Computer Science
This Grade 11 university preparation course introduces students to computer science and software development. Students develop programming skills using a structured approach, design algorithms and apply a software development life cycle to plan, code, test, document and refine a culminating software project.
Grade
11
Credit
1.0
Delivery
Online
Prerequisite
None
About This Course
This Grade 11 university preparation course introduces students to computer science and software development. Students develop programming skills using a structured approach, design algorithms and apply a software development life cycle to plan, code, test, document and refine a culminating software project.
What You'll Learn
- Use data types, expressions, control structures and one-dimensional arrays in computer programs.
- Design algorithms and use subprograms to create organized, maintainable code.
- Apply problem-solving strategies to software challenges independently and as part of a team.
- Use the software development life cycle to plan, design, code, test, document and refine a project.
- Understand computer components, file-management practices and software-development environments.
- Explore sustainability, emerging computer-science research and postsecondary/career opportunities.
Skills You'll Develop
- Programming and algorithm design
- Debugging, testing and code maintenance
- Software design and development life-cycle planning
- Problem solving and computational thinking
- Documentation, collaboration and responsible professional practice
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
- Use data types, arrays, control structures and simple algorithms in programs.
- Use subprograms and proper code-maintenance techniques and conventions.
- Apply problem-solving strategies independently and collaboratively.
- Design software solutions and algorithms according to specifications.
- Apply a software development life-cycle model to a software project.
- Relate computer-component specifications to user requirements and safeguard files and data.
- Explain sustainability practices, emerging computer-science research and postsecondary/career prospects.
Course Units
The following reflects the school’s planned organization of the course. Approximate time allocations may be adjusted while all curriculum expectations and required planned learning are maintained.
| Unit | Title / Major Learning Focus | Approx. Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Programming Fundamentals: Data Types, Expressions and Control Structures | 26 hours |
| 2 | Arrays, Algorithms, Subprograms and Code Maintenance | 24 hours |
| 3 | Problem Solving and Software Design | 18 hours |
| 4 | Computer Environments, Systems, Files and Development Tools | 14 hours |
| 5 | Topics in Computer Science, Sustainability, Research and Careers | 10 hours |
| 6 | Culminating Software Development Project | 16 hours |
| Final | Mandatory Written Final Examination | 2 hours |
Assessment
Assessment uses evidence gathered over time from student work, conversations and observations. The final grade for 2026–2027 is determined as follows:
| Component | Weight | How It Is Determined |
|---|---|---|
| Course work throughout the course | 65% | Evaluation evidence gathered throughout the course, with special consideration given to the student's most consistent and more recent achievement. |
| Mandatory written final examination | 10% | Written final examination administered during the designated final-evaluation period. |
| Culminating software-development task | 15% | Substantial software-development task incorporating planning, design, coding, testing, documentation and reflection. |
| Attendance and participation | 10% | Based on meaningful attendance and participation; excused absences do not negatively affect this component. |
Examples of Assessment Evidence
Assessment may include programming exercises, algorithm-design tasks, debugging and code-review activities, oral code explanations, documentation, project planning artifacts and final evaluations.
Pathways
Students explore postsecondary computer-science programs, industry certifications, emerging fields and global career trends in software development, networks, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and related technology fields.
The course also develops transferable problem-solving, communication and professional-practice skills applicable across many academic and career paths.
Teacher Support
- Students learn through the school's secure online learning environment and receive ongoing support from qualified teachers.
- Teacher-supported conferencing, tutorials and scheduled live support are available as appropriate.
- Live-coded or recorded demonstrations are followed by guided and independent programming practice.
- Teachers support algorithm design using pseudocode, flowcharts, tracing, test cases and structured problem-solving strategies.
- Debugging, code review, oral code-explanation conferences and revision based on descriptive feedback help students improve.
- Software-development life-cycle planning, documentation, testing and project-management routines support the culminating project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the course code?
ICS3U — Introduction to Computer Science, Grade 11, University Preparation.
Is there a prerequisite?
No. There is no prerequisite or co-requisite.
How many credits is ICS3U?
The course is worth 1.0 Ontario secondary school credit.
Does the course include a major software project?
Yes. The culminating software-development project accounts for 15% of the final grade.
How is the final grade calculated?
65% course work, 10% mandatory written final examination, 15% culminating software-development task, and 10% attendance and participation.
What programming topics are covered?
Students work with data types, expressions, control structures, arrays, algorithms, subprograms, code maintenance, debugging, software design and development life-cycle planning.
What pathways can ICS3U support?
It supports postsecondary computer science and related programs, industry certifications and careers in computer-related fields.
Ready to Take This Course?
$549 / Credit
- Provided by CSW — Canadian School of the World
- Ontario Ministry of Education registered
- Delivered fully online
Need Help Deciding?
Not sure if this is the right course? Book a free 30-minute meeting with a CSW advisor.
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