Computer Science
Computer Science gives you a real, in-depth understanding of how computer technology works. This course uncovers what goes on ‘behind the scenes’, including learning to program in the Python programming language.
Years 10 - 11
Exam Board: OCR
Our GCSE in Computer Science gives you a real, in-depth understanding of how computer technology works. This course uncovers what goes on ‘behind the scenes’, including learning to program in the Python programming language.
You will learn to solve problems in creative ways and will discover that Computer Science touches every aspect of our lives. You will apply logic, maths and skills of critical evaluation. You will learn how Computers ‘think’ in binary, discuss the ethical implications of driverless cars and the security of your personal data, and understand some of the algorithms that power modern websites such as Google Search and Facebook.
Computer Science changes the way you look at the world and gives you a powerful set of problem solving tools that can be applied to any of your subjects and your day-to-day life. During your study of Computer Science you will also be developing a range of ICT skills through the use of, for example, Google Docs, Google Sheets and Google Classroom.
The course provides an excellent pathway towards further study of Computer Science at A-Level and University and also to employment in related professions. There is exponential growth in demand for graduates who are qualified in this area. Students who have taken a GCSE in Computer Science and who progress to study the subject at A-Level or University will have an advantage over their peers who pick up this subject later on. The course is made up of three units:
Computer Systems
- Systems Architecture, Memory, Storage
- Wired and wireless networks
- Network topologies, protocols and layers
- System security
- System software
- Ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns
Assessment:
- 80 marks
- 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Written paper
- No calculators allowed
Weighting:
- 40% of total GCSE
Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming
- Algorithms *
- Programming techniques
- Producing robust programs
- Computational logic
- Translators and facilities of languages
- Data representation
Assessment:
- 80 marks
- 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Written paper
- No calculators allowed
Weighting:
- 40% of total GCSE
Programming Project
- Programming techniques
- Analysis
- Design
- Development
- Testing and evaluation and conclusions
Assessed as Coursework:
- 40 marks
- Totalling 20 hours
Weighting:
- 20% of total GCSE
Sixth Form
Please visit the V6 Sixth Form website for information about .
