GCSE Computer Science

Subject Leader - Mr A Semwogerere

Why study Computer Science?

It is an exciting time to be a Computer Scientist. It opens doors to future careers that do not yet exist. Skills gained explain why employers hold a positive view of Computer Scientists with an understanding of principles that can be applied to changing technologies. 

Course Details

The GCSE specification encourages candidates to explore and understand how computers work and communicate in a variety of contexts. There is ample opportunity for them to apply and consolidate their knowledge of computer programming by carrying out practical tasks that will develop their capacity for imaginative, innovative thinking, creativity and independence. They will develop the skills of design and evaluation, and they will test and problem-solve when errors occur in both their own systems and those of others. 

This GCSE course consists of three units giving the opportunity to students to show understanding and apply their knowledge through the three different assessments shown below.

Skills

• Numeracy – to manipulate mathematical models

• Literacy – to communicate ideas and results clearly and concisely

• ICT –to conceive, design and write working computer programs

• Problem-solving – to use programming and computational thinking

• Decision making – to evaluate and act upon complex data

• Teamwork – to combine with others to achieve goals

• Time management – to be self-motivated in order to meet deadlines under pressure

• Design – to apply software engineering processes selectively

Examination Board

OCR (Oxford Cambridge and RSA)

Assessment

Component 1: Computer Systems—Written Paper: 1 Hour and 30 minutes 50% of total GCSE (80 marks)

Component 2: Computational Thinking, algorithms and Programming— Written Paper: 1 Hour and 30 minutes 50% of total GCSE (80 marks)