Computer Science
GCSE (9-1) - J277
Assessment Overview
The course is 100% exam based in your final year within Key Stage 4, shown below;
Paper 1 - Computer Systems (50%) of the final mark)
Paper 2 - Computational thinking, algorithms and programming (50%) of the final mark
Programming Language (Python) will also be taught, but this will now be assessed within Paper 2 above.
Key Information & Topics
Component 1 - Computer systems
Introduces students to the central processing unit (CPU), computer memory and storage, data representation, wired and wireless networks, network topologies, system security and system software. It also looks at ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns associated with computer science.
Component 2 - Computational thinking, algorithms and programming
Students apply knowledge and understanding gained in component 01. They develop skills and understanding in computational thinking: algorithms, programming techniques, producing robust programs, computational logic and translators.
Y9 - Computer Science 23_24.mp4Practical Programming
Students are to be given the opportunity to undertake a programming task(s) during their course of study which allows them to develop their skills to design, write, test and refine programs using a high-level programming language. Students will be assessed on these skills during the written examinations, in particular component 02 (section B).
Career & Further Study Information
Computer Science aims to equip all students with the knowledge and understanding to take the content forward into a variety of courses and roles. Students can move seamlessly into college courses and onto University Degree courses. Pupils studying a course of Computer Science can also apply for niche apprenticeship placements within the subject area.