Computer Science
GCSE
Examining Board
OCR
Course Introduction
Computer Science is a practical subject where learners can apply the knowledge and skills learned in the classroom to real-world problems. It is an intensely creative subject that involves invention and excitement. The Computer Science qualification values computational thinking, problem solving and system design.
Computer Science is a great way to develop critical thinking, analysis and problem-solving skills, which can be transferred to further learning and to everyday life. Computer Science contributes towards the English Baccalaureate and is considered the fourth Science.
Assessments
Computer Systems - examination (50%)
Computational thinking, algorithms and programming - examination (50%)
Progression
These skills will be the best preparation for students who want to go on to study Computer Science at A Level and beyond. The qualification will also provide a good grounding for other subjects that require computational thinking and analysis skills.
Course Content
Computer Systems
In Computer Systems, students will learn about how computers work, including systems architecture, memory, storage, networks, system security and software. They will also consider the ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns linked to computing.
In Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming, students will look deeply into computational thinking, including algorithms, programming fundamentals, Boolean logic, programming languages and IDEs.
Contact Name
Mrs K Williams – Head of ICT and Computing
Contact Email
k.williams@wymcol.org
A Level
Computer Science is a practical subject where students can apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real-world systems.
Our Computer Science A Level is relevant to the modern and changing world of computing. There is a focus on programming, emphasising the importance of computational thinking as a discipline. With computational thinking at its core, it helps students to develop the skills to solve problems, design systems and understand human and machine intelligence.
Taking A Level Computer Science will be excellent preparation for students who want to go on to study Computer Science at a higher level and will also provide a good grounding for other subject areas that require computational thinking and analytical skills.
Coursework/Examination Requirement
1 coursework and 2 examinations.
The College expects students to have
Grade 6 or above in GCSE Mathematics and Grade 5 in English. Qualifications in Computer Science are not necessary.
Progression
Computer Science is highly regarded by universities and helps gain entry to many degree courses including those related to Science, Mathematics, Engineering and of course Computer Science itself. Computer Science graduates work/research in a range of industries from aerospace to telecommunications and from artificial intelligence to mining.
Course Content
Unit 1: Computer Systems 40% (exam)
This is an examined unit covering the characteristics of contemporary systems architecture and other areas including characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices, software and software development, exchanging data, data types, data structures and algorithms, legal, moral, ethical and cultural issues.
Unit 2: Algorithms and Programming 40% (exam)
This is an examined unit covering computational thinking, including programming and problem solving, pattern recognition, software development, abstraction and decomposition, algorithm design and efficiency and standard algorithms.
Unit 3: Computer Systems 20% (coursework)
This unit gives students a chance to demonstrate their programming ability learnt throughout the course. To complete this project, students will need to analyse a problem, design a solution and give a thorough evaluation.
