Computer Science

Unit 1 - Understanding Computer Science 

Digital examination (1 Hour 30 Minutes)

Topic 1 - Computer architecture 

• 1.1.1 Components 

• 1.1.2 Peripheral devices 

• 1.1.3 Storage 

Topic 2 - How systems are structured and function 

• 1.2.1 Data types, including representation, storage and compression 

• 1.2.2 Data and file structures 

• 1.2.3 Automated systems 

Topic 3 - How systems communicate 

• 1.3.1 Networks and infrastructure

• 1.3.2 Cybersecurity and personal privacy 

Topic 4 - Algorithms 

• 1.4.1 Algorithms 

Topic 5 - Software 

• 1.5.1 Principles of programming 

• 1.5.2 Software development, including the software development life cycle (SDLC) 

• 1.5.3 Program construction 

Topic 6 - Logical operations 

• 1.6.1 Logical operators 

Topic 7 - Operating systems 

• 1.7.1 Operating systems 

Topic 8 - Systems development life cycle 

• 1.8.1 Systems development life cycle (SDLC) 

Unit 2 - ICT in Context

Internally Assessed, externally moderated NEA (40 Hours) 

Topic 1 - Investigation 

• 2.1.1 Investigation - Learners should be able to analyse Computer Science problems, using decomposition, abstraction, pattern recognition and algorithms to determine solutions 

Topic 2 - Design 

• 2.2.1 Design - Learners should be able to design solutions and their component parts, and use data modelling skills 

Topic 3 - Implementation 

• 2.3.1 Implementation - Learners should be able to use the Python programming language to write programs and build appropriate user interfaces 

Topic 4 - Testing, refinement, evaluation 

• 2.4.1 Testing 

• 2.4.2 Refinement and evaluation - Learners should be able to use the Python programming language to test and refine effective programs and build appropriate user interfaces