A level: Computer Science

Course outline

You will develop your ability to:

•  Use computational thinking to analyse and solve problems
•  Think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically
•  Apply your computing and programming knowledge in a range of contexts
•  Produce graphical user interfaces and object-orientated programming solutions

What will you gain from this course?

•  Computational thinking skills that are extremely attractive in the modern workplace
•  A deep understanding of problem solving
•  Experience in creating logical and efficient solutions
•  Advanced knowledge of computing theory

The full course specification can be found at:

https://goo.gl/w9Pn92

Computer systems

• The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices
• Software and software development
• Exchanging data
• Data types, data structures and algorithms
• Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues

2 hours 30 mins

Written paper 40% of grade

Algorithms and programming

• Elements of computational thinking
• Problem solving and programming
• Algorithms to solve problems and standard algorithms
  

2 hours 30 mins Written paper

40% of grade

Programming Project

• Students will analyse, design, develop and evaluate a software project to solve a problem of their own choices

20% of grade

Generic A Level entry requirements

What can you do after the course?

This course has been designed for students who want to move on to future study in the computing field or related disciplines. Its emphasis on computer science and computation means this Computer Science A Level provides a valuable introduction to a growing academic and commercial area.

Is the course right for you?

Students must be interested in the mechanics as well as the use of computing – they must want to know what can be computed and how, rather than simply use existing software packages.