Computer Science

The qualification encourages candidates to develop their knowledge and understanding of computer systems, the principles of computing (including programming) and how these are applied to the solution of problems. Additionally, the specification encourages candidates to gain an understanding of systematic methods – such as the use of algorithms and test strategies, the maintenance of computer systems, and the skills associated with documenting solutions – and encourages candidates to further develop skills associated with applying this knowledge and understanding to producing computer-based solutions to real problems.

There are three compulsory elements to the course. There are two examinations both worth 40% each, and a Programming Project worth 20% to complete, all taken or submitted in Year 13.

Students are expected to use at least an equal amount of their own time to complete independent work, programming and research.

What will I study?

The qualification encourages candidates to develop their knowledge and understanding of computer systems, the principles of computing (including programming) and how these are applied to the solution of problems. Additionally, the specification encourages candidates to gain an understanding of systematic methods – such as the use of algorithms and test strategies, the maintenance of computer systems, and the skills associated with documenting solutions and problem solving – and encourages candidates to further develop skills associated with applying this knowledge and understanding to producing computer-based solutions to real problems.

Unit 01 – Areas of Study

The characteristics of contemporary computer systems: Input, output, process and the components of a computer system

Software and software development: Types of software and the methodologies used to develop them

Exchanging data: How data is exchanged between different systems

Data types, data structures and algorithms: How data is represented and stored in different structures and the use of different algorithms

Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues: Laws surrounding the use and ethical issues that can arise from the use of computers

Unit 02 – Areas of Study

Elements of computational thinking: What is meant by computational thinking; abstractly, logically, procedurally and concurrently

Problem solving and programming: How computers are used to solve problems and programs can be written to solve them

Algorithms: The use of algorithms to describe problems and standard algorithms

Unit 03 – Programming Project

Candidates select their own user-driven problem of an appropriate size and complexity to solve. The choice of programming language or methodology (Paradigm) is the choice of the student. The only restrictions are around complexity of the problem and in some instances (particularly gaming software) how the software is used, as it must be the students’ own work and programming. This will enable them to demonstrate the skills and knowledge necessary to meet the Assessment Objectives. Analysis of the problem. Design of the solution. Implementation and iterative testing of the solution. Evaluation and use case testing and of the solution. The project will be completed using an iterative (Agile) process (methodology) to mimic as close as possible real-life problems and solutions.

A’ Level - Unit 01: Computer Systems – Externally Assessed – 40%

A’ Level - Unit 02: Algorithms and Programming – Externally Assessed – 40%

A’ Level - Unit 03: Programming Project – Internally Assessed (Coursework) – 20%