GCSE

Why Study Computer Science? 

Computer technology touches our lives in almost everything we do. Computing is a discipline that offers rewarding and challenging possibilities for a wide range of students. It develops critical thinking, analysis and problem solving skills, which can be transferred to further learning in any subject area and to everyday life. It offers great opportunities for creativity and innovation. And of course it can lead on to exciting future opportunities in the wider world. The GCSE builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills established in KS3. 

The GCSE in Computer Science will encourage students to understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of Computer Science, including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation. Students will analyse problems through practical experience including designing, writing and debugging programs. Students are encouraged to think creatively, analytically, logically and critically. They will understand the components that make up digital systems and how they communicate with one another and with other systems. They will also look at the impacts of digital technology to the individual and to wider society. 

Assessment is done through two papers, one focusing on the theory of Computer Science and one on the programming and algorithms. The project provides students with the opportunity to develop and demonstrate their practical ability. They will create algorithms to provide a solution to a problem, code their solution in a suitable programming language and test and evaluate their solution. If your interest is in Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths (STEM), Computer Science will be the ideal subject for you. 

Content Overview 

Current course: OCR - GCSE Computer Science (9-1) - J277 Specification

Unit 1 Computer Systems: System architecture, memory, storage, security and software. networking, ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns. 

Unit 2 Computational Thinking and Programming: algorithms, programming techniques, translators, data representation, computational logic and producing robust programs. 

Assessment Overview 

Computer Systems (01) 80 marks – 1 hour and 30 minutes written paper. 50% of total GCSE 

Computational Thinking (02) 80 marks – 1 hour and 30 minutes written paper. 50% of total GCSE 

GCSE Programming Project (03/04) – 20 hours timetabled non exam assessment. 

Time, Equipment and Expenses

Pupils will be required to study 1- 4 hours per unit for homework. This may include practising programming skills, research on particular topics, investigating and solving problems. Essential equipment will be USB stick, Windows or Mac based computer with internet access. Students can buy OCR recommended textbook for between £15 to £25. Some students also find it useful to buy revision books such as “CGP guide” or “OCR guide” for about £5-8. 

For more information, please speak to Mr Win.