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 problem solving – and encourages candidates to further develop skills associated with applying this knowledge and understanding to producing computer-based solutions to real problems.

You will require a grade 5 in Maths and 5s in Sciences (Physics in particular).

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. 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 of the solution. Testing and Evaluation of the solution. The project will be completed using an iterative (Agile) process 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%