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WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT?

If you enjoy a challenge, like solving logical puzzles and working with computers, then you should consider an A level in Computer Science.

You will learn how computers work, how they are programmed and the impact they have on our lives. You will learn about how to tackle major software development by designing and writing your own program to solve a substantial computing problem, research and analytical skills.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Although the mathematics content of the course is relatively low, successful candidates usually have at least Grade 5 or above in Mathematics.

You would also need at least a Grade 5 in Computer Science. However, this requirement may be waived if the candidate can show that they have previous computer programming experience.

SYLLABUS

YEAR 12

Unit 1: Computer Systems

  • Fundamentals of data representation
  • Fundamentals of computer systems
  • Fundamentals of computer organisation and architecture
  • Consequences of uses of computing
  • Fundamentals of communication and networking

Unit 2: Algorithms and Programming

  • Systematic approach to problem solving
  • Fundamentals of programming
  • Fundamentals of data structures
  • Theory of computation

YEAR 13

Unit 1: Computer Systems

  • Fundamentals of data representation
  • Fundamentals of computer systems
  • Fundamentals of computer organisation and architecture
  • Consequences of uses of computing
  • Fundamentals of communication and networking
  • Fundamentals of databases

Unit 2: Algorithms and Programming

  • Fundamentals of programming
  • Fundamentals of data structures
  • Fundamentals of algorithms
  • Theory of computation

Unit 3: Computing practical project

In year 12, you will be required to develop your practical skills in the context of solving a realistic problem or carrying out an investigation. You have the opportunity to work independently on a problem of interest over an extended period, during which you must extend your programming skills and deepen your understanding of computer science.

The most important skill that is assessed throughout the project is a student's ability to create a programmed solution to a problem or investigation. However, a proportion of marks will also be awarded for supporting documentation to reflect the expectation that reporting of the problem, its analysis, the design of a solution or plan of an investigation and testing and evaluation will be carried out proficiently.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED AND EXAMINED?

There will be 2 internally assessed examinations at the end of Year 12.

In Year 13, the A level will be assessed by final examinations, which include a 2 hour 30 minute on-screen examination and a 2 hour 30 minute written examination.

These make up 40% each of the final grade, the remaining 20% of the marks are awarded for your computing practical project.

FUTURE COURSES AND POSSIBLE CAREERS

Many A level Computer Science students have gone on to study Computing at universities. The demand for IT professionals – from programmers to network administrators – makes a computing qualification a highly marketable asset.

Computer Science is also equally valuable as a foundation for other university level courses. Some aspects of computing are particularly applicable to technical disciplines such as engineering and science, but knowledge of how to manage change in IT systems is a valuable skill in just about any profession, from accountancy to medicine.

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