Computer Science
Lead: Ms Tisson
Email: mtisson2.310@parkhighstanmore.org.uk
Subject overview
Computer Science is a linear qualification with 100% external assessment. It is a practical subject where students can apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real world systems. There is a great emphasis on mathematical skills used to solve problems.
The two examined components are: ‘Computing principles’, and ‘Algorithms and programming’.
For the ‘Computing principles’ component, students will learn about the following topics: the characteristics of contemporary processors; input, output, and storage devices; software and software development; programming; exchanging data; data types, data structures and algorithms; legal, moral, ethical and cultural issues.
For the ‘Algorithms and programming’ component, students will: understand what is meant by computational thinking; understand the benefits of applying computational thinking to solving problems and be able to use algorithms to describe problems.
For their programming project, students will choose a computing problem to work through according to the guidance of the specification. This requires them to analyse, design, develop and evaluate a solution.
“Computer science is different and interesting, teachers provide great support, that allows me to achieve my goals. I have gained skills such as thinking logically, how to write code and working independently on tasks.” – Student
Exam Board: OCR
Course Specification: H046
Qualification obtained: OCR A Level in Computer Science
Entry requirements:
Students must achieve at least six 9-4 grades including English Language and Mathematics at GCSE.
Grade 6 in Computer Science or 6 in Mathematics
What you will study
Year 12
Topics covered:
Component 1:
- The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output, and storage devices
- Software and software development
- Exchanging data
- Data types
- Data structures
- Legal, moral, cultural, and ethical issues
Component 2:
- Elements of computational thinking
- Problem solving and programming
- Algorithms to solve problems and standard algorithms
Year 13
Topics covered:
Component 1:
- The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices
- Software and software development
- Exchanging data
- Data types,
- Data structures
- Algorithms
- Legal, moral, cultural, and ethical issues
Component 2:
- Elements of computational thinking
- Problem solving and programming
- Algorithms to solve problems and standard algorithms
Component 3:
- Programmed Solution to a Problem - Candidates discuss, investigate, design, prototype, refine and implement, test and evaluate a computerised solution to a problem chosen by the candidate which must be solved using original code
Assessment
Assessment percentage:
80% Exam
20% Coursework
Unit Code | Unit Title | Assessment | Weight |
01 | Computer Systems | Written examination in Year 13: 140- mark paper, 2hr 30min | 40% |
02 | Algorithms and Programming | Written examination end of Year 13: 140-mark paper, 2hr 30min | 40% |
03 | Programming Project | Non-exam assessment: 70 marks | 20% |
Progression routes
This can lead to degree level courses with possibilities including Computer Science, Multimedia, Web Design, Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Business Systems and Electronics.
Additional Information
Course specific equipment:
- One folder
- Dividers
- Notebook
- USB
- OCR AS and A Level Computer Science from PG online
Essential Reading Material:
OCR A Level Computer Science 9781910523-05-6
Essential algorithms for A Level
Computer Science Paperback 9781794359420
Essential Maths Skills for AS/A Level Computer Science 9781471863578
Recommended resources:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/0/computing/
http://interactivepython.org/runestone/static/pythonds/index.html#
Enrichment:
Talks