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Computer Science
Computer Science is a relatively-new A level option, created because of the growing importance in the discipline in our society today. At The Swan School, we have embraced this and invested in brand new, state-of-the-art facilities will enable the excellent quality of teaching of computer science.
A level computer science is a challenging course as many of the topics are quite advanced. At The Swan School, students will be taught by expert, experienced teachers in small classes and will benefit immensely from our supportive, but focussed, academic approach to teaching.
Entry Requirements
6 Computing GCSE and 6 Maths GCSE OR 7 in Maths
Specification
OCR Computer Science (H446)
Course Outline (Module, Weighting, Topics Etc)
Paper 1: Computer Systems
This paper focuses on some of the more theoretical topics within Computer Science. Topics focus on five main themes:
- The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices
- Types of software and the different methodologies used to develop software
- Data exchange between different systems
- Data types, data structures and algorithms
- Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues.
Paper 2: Algorithms and Programming
This paper tests students on their problem solving, and programming skills. Students learn the Python programming language within the course, and apply this within this written examination. The three key topics examined are:
- Problem solving and programming – how computers and programs can be used to solve problems
- Algorithms and how they can be used to describe and solve problems.
- What is meant by computational thinking (thinking abstractly, thinking ahead, thinking procedurally etc.)
Non Examined Assessment: Programming Project
This is started in Year 12, and completed mid-way through Year 13. Pupils are taught the fundamentals of programming in Python, before independently completing a programming project. They must analyse a complex problem, design a solution, create a working program, test it, and finally evaluate their project.
Assessment Breakdown:
Paper 1: Computer Systems – Written Exam (40% weighting)
Paper 2: Algorithms and Programming – Written Exam (40% weighting)
Non-Exam Assessment: Programming Project (20% weighting)
