If you haven't taken CS1101 or CS1102 at WPI, you will need to teach yourself the following terminology and concepts from How to Design Programs within the first two days of the course:
By week three of the course, you need to have taught
yourself map
and filter
(what they are,
their types, and how they work).
If you have never programmed before, or find this background material over your head, consult with the professor immediately about whether you are ready for this course.