Computer Science
Mr Silver - Head of faculty - bsilver@priorysouthsea.org
Mr Silver - Head of faculty - bsilver@priorysouthsea.org
“Be nice to nerds. Chances are you will end up working for one.” Bill Gates
“I want to learn to read and write code! I want to be one of the clergy. I want to be one of the folks who contribute. Everyone should want to be.” Will.i.am
“The rise of Google, the rise of Facebook, the rise of Apple, I think are proof that there is a place for computer science as something that solves problems that people face every day”. Eric Schmidt
“All of my friends who have younger siblings who are going to college or high school - my number one piece of advice is: You should learn how to program.” Mark Zuckerberg
Exam board - OCR
Course Outline
Computer Science is a technical course that requires a high degree of independence, logical thinking and problem solving
It is contemporary, relevant and challenging but rewarding for GCSE students with an interest in programming and computer construction. The course will enable students to :
• understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of Computer Science, including problem solving, logic, algorithms, and programming
• analyse problems in computational terms, and have exposure to practical experience of writing computer programs in order to solve such problems
• learn about, discuss and evaluate both new and unfamiliar technologies
• become responsible, confident and creative users of Computer Science and related technologies
• understand the components that make up digital systems, and how they communicate with one another and with other systems
• understand the impacts of digital technology to the individual and wider society
If you can answer yes to all the following questions come and have a chat with Mr Silver about selecting the option:
Do I like solving problems?
Am I inquisitive?
Can I come up with creative solutions to problems?
Do I refuse to give up if the going gets tough?
Am I happy solving complex mathematical problems?
Can I work independently?
Exam and coursework details
Lessons are a combination of the theory of computing and practical programming activities and you are required to demonstrate a wide range of programming ability.
The Course is Assessed
Examination - Computer Systems 50%
Examination - Com
Homework and independent study
Pre-reading/Research and note taking ahead of lesson
Practical Programming practice
Careers in Computer Science
Next Steps in Education
A-level Computer Science; BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Computing; Apprenticeships in IT
Potential Careers
Application Developer, Cyber Security Analyst, Forensic Computer Analyst, Games Design/Development, Penetration Tester, Software Engineer, System Analyst Web Design/Development, Network Engineer, Nanotechnologist, IT Trainer.
Additional Information
If you would like to have a go at some typical entry level questions for this GCSE have a look at this Google Classroom Course and Form.