This course builds your proficiency in the C programming language and gives you a working understanding of how programs execute on a machine. You will work directly with memory, organize code across multiple files, and develop the professional habits of testing, debugging, documentation, and version control that produce correct and maintainable software.
Each lesson is two hours. Expect roughly 30 to 45 minutes of focused instruction followed by hands-on lab time. Labs not finished in class become homework. Come ready to write code, ask questions, and debug systematically.
By the end of CS210, cadets will be able to:
Forty-one lessons across five blocks. Major assessments are flagged at the right.
Course total: 1000 points. Labs and reflections are reported in two categories: a programming grade covering the first 15 graded lessons (your midterm standing) and a final grade covering the remaining 20.
| Component | Points | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| 10 Quizzes (20 pts each) | 200 | 20% |
| Graded Review 1 (GR1) | 100 | 10% |
| Graded Review 2 / Midterm (GR2) | 100 | 10% |
| Graded Review 3 (GR3) | 100 | 10% |
| Graded Review 4 / Final (GR4) | 100 | 10% |
| PEX1 (due L14) | 40 | 4% |
| PEX2 (due L26) | 65 | 6.5% |
| Team PEX / Final Project (due L39) | 150 | 15% |
| Labs — programming half (15 lessons × 2 pts) | 30 | 3% |
| Labs — final half (20 lessons × 2 pts) | 40 | 4% |
| Reflections — programming half (15 lessons × 1 pt) | 15 | 1.5% |
| Reflections — final half (20 lessons × 1 pt) | 20 | 2% |
| Ethics discussion | 40 | 4% |
| Total | 1000 | 100% |
Use is tiered by assessment per the DF Generative AI Usage Policy framework. Documentation is required for all permitted use on graded work.
| Level | Use | Applies To |
|---|---|---|
| Level 0 | No use | All in-class GRs, quizzes, the final exam, and PEX defenses |
| Level 1 | Organizational and explanatory | Pre-class readings, studying, and concept clarification |
| Level 2 | Brainstorming and idea generation | PEX1, PEX2, and Team PEX (design phase only, before code is written). All code must be original work. |
| Level 3 | Feedback on student-generated work | Daily labs and weekly homework. Cadets write their own code first, then may use GenAI for review or debugging hints. |
Substantive violations of the GenAI policy or other instances of academic dishonesty are reported under the Cadet Honor Code. When in doubt, ask before submitting.
Assignments are delivered through Git Classroom and are due at 2300 on the listed due date. Each assignment has a fixed cap on graded submissions, so test locally before pushing for a graded run.
Late work is assessed a 20% deduction per calendar day past the deadline. This policy applies to projects, labs, and homework. Quizzes and Graded Reviews are administered in class and cannot be made up except in the case of an excused absence.
Extensions: Cadets seeking an extension must reach out to their instructor before the due date. Projects and assignments will only be excused for documented long term absences (e.g., extended TDY, hospitalization, or comparable circumstances). Routine schedule conflicts are not grounds for an excused submission.
Individual instructors may modify this policy for a recovery effort or other purpose at their discretion. Refer to your instructor's section guidance for any deviation from the standard 20% per day deduction.
All development for CS210 happens inside a Linux virtual machine running under VMware Workstation Pro. The following tools live on the VM:
All required resources are free. King is recommended optional secondary reading.