Course Outline and Assessment

This A-Level Computer Science course is an exciting and challenging 2 year programme. It consists of three units Programming project unit (20% of final grade) and two exam based units in year 13 (80% of final grade). Students will learn about different hardware and software used in computer science, various forms of data representation such as binary and hexadecimal. Students will be expected to display strong mathematical skills in these topic areas Boolean algebra, algorithms and programming languages.

Unit 1 Computer Systems covers these content areas:

· The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices

· Software and software development

· Exchanging data

· Data types, data structures and algorithms

· Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues

Unit 2 Algorithms and Programming covers these content areas:

· Elements of computational thinking

· Problem solving and programming

· Algorithms to solve problems and standard algorithms

Unit 3 Programming Project is a practical portfolio based assessment. Students will learn an appropriate programming language for the project and develop a system that meets specified user requirements.

Where could this take you?

Where could this take you?

This is a key subject for students planning to continue on to university and study subjects including computer science, computer game development, software engineering, information systems, music technology, networking or electronics at degree level.

Alternatively, students may consider direct entry into related employment.

What can I do now?

We have put together a GOOGLE CLASSROOM with an array of resources, including lessons, for your use. Please use the code to access the GOOGLE CLASSROOM and make your way through the material. Please email Peter.Agbakoba@petcheyacademy.org.uk if you have any questions.

Google Classroom code: fjyovcx