Subject Information

Course Summary

During this course, you will develop your understanding of current and emerging technologies, look at the use of algorithms in computer programs, develop an understanding of computer hardware and become independent and discerning users of IT. 

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. 

The course builds upon skills learned through units taught during Key Stage 3, and pupils will be expected to further their skill set. 

Students Suited to the Course

Computer Science involves programming, but this is only one aspect of the course. If you have a genuine interest in computers, computer Science and IT and/or understand that the skills you will develop will benefit your future study and work life, then you are suited for this course. Computer Science involves problem-solving and the ability to think logically. While mathematical skills are not essential, students should have a basic grasp of mathematical concepts and should be independent readers, be able to interpret text and work independently when required. 

Homework is set for every lesson and often involves watching short video clips and taking notes as pre-learning for the following lesson. 

Course Structure

Component 1 (Exam 50%) 

This component will introduce learners to the Central Processing Unit (CPU), computer memory and storage, wired and wireless networks, network topologies, system security and system software. It is expected that learners will become familiar with the impact of Computer Science in a global context through the study of the ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns associated with Computer Science. 

Component 2 (Exam 50%) 

This component incorporates and builds on the knowledge and understanding gained in Component 01, encouraging learners to apply this knowledge and understanding using computational thinking. Learners will be introduced to algorithms and programming, learning about programming techniques, how to produce robust programs, computational logic, translators and facilities of computing languages and data representation.  

Learners will become familiar with computing-related mathematics. It is expected that learners will draw on this underpinning content when completing independent practical programming tasks. 

Practical Programming 

All students must be given the opportunity to undertake a programming task(s), either to a specification or to solve a problem (or problems), during their course of study.  

Students may draw on some of the content in both components when engaged in Practical Programming. 

Assessment Methods

Component 1: Computer Systems Written Paper: 80 Marks (1:30) (50%)  

Component 2: Computational thinking, algorithms and programming Written Paper: 80 Marks (1:30) (50%) 

Possible Progressions

After completing the course pupils will have the skills required to further study  Computer Science A level or an equivalent Level 3 IT course as well as the skills required to embark on a Computing or IT-orientated apprenticeship.  

The course leads into many areas of Computing, problem solving, games development and programming. 

Contact: Mr Burrin