Computer Science

Computer Science

Curriculum Leader Maths & Computer Science – Mrs Natasha Pecur

Examination board – Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

Course Content

Computer Science is a 2 year course with the final examination taking place at the end of the course. 

The students are required to study:

Computer systems

1. Data representation

2. Data transmission

3. Hardware 

4. Software

5. The Internet and its uses

6. Automated and emerging technologies

Algorithms, programming and logic

7. Algorithm design and problem-solving

8. Programming

9. Databases

10. Boolean logic

Students are required to demonstrate a theoretical understanding of these topics in two written examinations. Learning will be done in a practical way – problem solving. Questions will require the candidate to think, use knowledge with understanding and demonstrate understanding gained through practising practical skills. As part of the programming module students will be taught how to write programs to solve problems.

Assessment Structure

Paper 1: Theory

This written paper contains short-answer and structured questions. There is no choice of questions.

1hour 45 minutes

50%

Paper 2:Problem-solving and Programming

This written paper contains short-answer and structured questions. There is no choice of questions. 20 of the marks for this paper are from questions set on the pre-release material.

1hour 45 minutes

50%

Key Skills

 The students learn:

• Analytical skills

• Problem solving skills

• Communication techniques

• Evaluative skills

Careers

Computer science teaches you problem solving and logical thinking skills which are useful skills for all your other subjects. GCSE computer science provides an ideal foundation for further study of computer science at A Level. Computer science at A Level is a facilitating subject for entry into the Russell group of universities (in UK) to study a wide range of courses including computer science, engineering, medicine, history, economics and the sciences.