Computer Science

Introduction to A level Computer Science

CIE

The A level Computer Science course provides a thorough grounding in programming concepts and covers the principles which provide a general understanding and perspective of the development of computer technology and systems. Computer Science helps develop problem solving skills and is a facilitating subject for entry to the Russell group of universities (in UK) to study many courses including computer science, engineering, medicine, history and the sciences.

SUBJECT COMBINATION AND PROGRESSION

Some mathematical work is involved with A level Computer Science, especially in the second year of the course. However, this is taught in computer science and is different to the concepts covered in core mathematics, mechanics and statistics – for example, no advanced calculus is used.

A grade A* to B in GCSE ICT or Computer Science and Maths is recommended.

COURSE OVERVIEW – CIE (9618)

The course consists of four modules, the first two of which are taken at the end of Year 12 for the AS exam, and the remainder taken at the end of Year 13.

AS Level

Unit 1

Theory fundamentals.

This covers

1. Information representation

2. Communication

3. Hardware

4. Processor Fundamentals

5. System Software

6. Security, privacy and data integrity

7. Ethics and Ownership

8. Databases

This written paper contains short-answer and structured questions.

There is no choice of questions.

50% of AS Grade

25% of A2

May Exam

Unit 2

Fundamental Problem-solving and Programming Skills.

This covers

9. Algorithm Design and Problem-solving

10. Data Types and Structures

11. Programming

12. Software Development

Candidates will need to write answers in pseudo code. This written paper will be externally assessed. Candidates will answer all questions.

50% of AS Grade

25% of A2

May Exam

A2 Level

Unit 3

Advanced Theory:

This covers:

13. Data Representation

14. Communication and internet

15. Hardware and Virtual Machines

16. System Software

17. Security

18. Artificial Intelligence

This written paper contains short-answer and structured questions.

There is no choice of questions.

25% of A2 Grade

May Exam

Unit 4

Further Problem-solving and Programming Skills.

This covers:

19. Algorithm design methods

20. Further programming and software development.

Candidates will submit complete program code and evidence of testing. Candidates will be required to use either Java, VB.NET or Python programming languages. Externally assessed. Candidates answer all questions on a computer without internet or email facility.

25% of A2 Grade

May Exam

If you enjoy solving problems, have the ability to organise and to think both creatively and logically, then you can go ahead with confidence and study computer science successfully.

Examination board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

Natasha Pecur - Curriculum Leader, Maths and Computer Science