Computer Science
Contact : Mr C Charles Email : charlesc @ pocklingtonschool . com
Course : A Level Computer Science Exam Board : OCR
Computer Science is of enormous importance to the economy , and the role of Computer Science as a discipline itself and as an ‘ underpinning ’ subject across science and engineering is growing rapidly . The growth of mobile devices and webrelated technologies has resulted in new challenges for employers and employees , and businesses today require an ever-increasing number of technologically-aware individuals . Computer Science is a practical subject , requiring the ability to think creatively and to analyse problems in computational terms as well as very good mathematical skills .
CONTENT OF COURSE
There are two theory components that will be externally set and marked . There will a mix of question types : short-answer , longer-answer , and levels of response mark-schemetype questions . Paper one will cover the characteristics of contemporary systems ; architecture and other areas including : software and software development ; programming ; exchanging data types ; structures and algorithms ; legal , moral , ethical and cultural issues .
The second paper will be focused on problem-solving , pseudocode and elements of computational thinking .
The final component is a coursework unit in which students select their own user-driven problem of an appropriate size and complexity to solve . This will enable them to demonstrate the skills and knowledge necessary to meet the assessment objectives . Students will need to analyse the problem , design a solution , implement the solution and give a thorough evaluation / testing .
COURSE ENTRY AND QUALIFICATIONS
Entry requirements for the course will be a minimum of grade 6 in GCSE Mathematics and some coding experience in a programming language such as Python or Visual Basic . GCSE Computer Science is beneficial .
COMPUTER SCIENCE AS A QUALIFICATION FOR FURTHER STUDY AND CAREER OPTIONS
The Computer Science course enables students to gain a broad understanding of Computer Science theory and applications which will provide an excellent grounding in many industries that require Computer Science expertise along with those careers that may use Computer Science as a specific application . The subject also allows for progression to diverse university courses .
COURSE OUTLINE
A level ( examining all components of the 2 year course )
PAPER CONTENT MARKS AVAILABLE
Computer systems ( 01 )
Algorithms and programming ( 02 )
2 hours and 30 minutes written paper
2 hours and 30 minutes written paper
40 %
40 %
“ The OCR course was designed after consultation with members of BCS , CAS and top universities .”
Non-exam assessment ( 03 )
The learner will choose a computing problem to work through according to the guidance in the specification
20 %
19