Computer Science
Y7 Curriculum
Y8 Curriculum
Y9 Curriculum
GCSE Curriculum
Computer Science Specification
Course Overview
Throughout your GCSE Computer Science course, you will learn about the fundamentals of algorithms: programming; fundamentals of data representation; computer systems; fundamentals of cybersecurity; ethical, legal and environmental impacts of digital technology on wider society, including issues of privacy; aspects of software development; and programming project. In addition, you will also get to do a programming project.
This is a rigorous and challenging qualification that aims to give you a thorough understanding of computational principles. You will have the opportunity to build your own applications (including those for mobile/tablet) and develop a greater awareness of the rapidly changing computer field. Content covered is widespread and includes: software development, cyber security and computer structure.
Computer Science GCSE is a high intensity, mathematically and logic driven course that requires a tolerant aptitude and a methodical approach to solving problems. You must be willing to invest your time outside of school hours in order to develop your generic I.T. based skills.
Exam board and Exam structure
|
Paper |
Content |
Marks available |
Exam board |
|
Paper 1: Computer systems
Written exam: 1 hour 30 mins |
This component will assess: Systems architecture; Memory and Storage; Computer networks; Connections and protocols; Network security; Systems software; Ethical, Legal; Cultural and environmental impacts of digital technology |
80 marks – 50% |
OCR |
|
Paper 2: Computational thinking, algorithms and programming
Written exam: 1 hour 30 mins |
This component will assess: Algorithms; Programming fundamentals; Producing robust programs; Boolean logic; Programming languages and Integrated Development; Environments |
80 marks – 50% |
|
Computing education prepares pupils to use computational thinking and imagination to understand and revolutionise the world. Computing links with mathematics, science and design and technology, and provides insights into both natural and artificial systems. The core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Building on this knowledge and understanding, pupils are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Computing also ensures that pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through, information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world
Founder of top companies are all former students of computer science and it has allowed them to learn the technical skills and more. Research and study have shown that computer science helps students perform well in school, increases their likelihood of attending university, and leads to better careers. Studying computer science will prepares students for careers in sectors such as government, law, education and corporate.
Computer Science questions teaches you to ask — How do you accomplish a task? Can you find a pattern? What data do you need? — are useful no matter where you go in life. – Bill Gates (Microsoft co-founder)
Computer literacy is an “essential skill” and computer science has the power to change the world - Belinda Gates (Microsoft co-founder)
Everybody in this country should learn how to program a computer…. Because it teaches you how to think.” - Steve Jobs (Apple Founder)