Highlight key differences between math, CS, and engineering to give students context for why CS is a distinct field in itself. Let students know that you don’t necessarily have to excel in one field to excel in the others.

  • Students often incorrectly conflate CS with related fields like math and physics. Understanding that CS tackles different types of problems with different types of approaches helps motivate CS as distinct content.
  • Assure students that you don’t need very much math to learn computer science to reduce their stress.
    • Even the AP A test doesn’t need much math. Modulo is the most complex math on the test!
    • When it comes to Modulo, student’s often don’t remember which number divides which.
    • Review division with remainders to make sure students understand the foundational concepts.