A Level Computer Science
COURSE OVERVIEW
Computer science consists of computer systems, algorithms, and programming including a programming project. You will develop problem-solving skills by applying the knowledge and understanding encountered.
EXAMINATION BOARD: OCR
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 5 in GCSE maths and grade 4 in GCSE English Language. An interest in programming and a general aptitude for problem-solving.
Why study A Level Computer Science at Blackpool Sixth?
Python, Visual Basic and C# are the programming languages of choice embedded into the curriculum. You will also have access to the 6Advance programming club to help enhance your programming skills.
How will I be taught?
Component 1 contains the majority of the content of the specification and is assessed in a written paper recalling knowledge and understanding. Lessons are both theoretical and practical with elements of group work.
Component 2 relates principally to problem solving skills needed by learners to apply the knowledge and understanding encountered in Component 1.
Programming project component 3 is a practical portfolio based assessment with a task that is chosen by the teacher or learner and is produced in an appropriate programming language.
Teacher expertise
The teacher has experience in the programming industry.
What skills will I develop?
- An understanding of and ability to apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science including; abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation.
- The ability to analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems including writing programs to do so.
- The capacity for thinking creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically.
- Mathematical skills.
- The ability to articulate the individual moral, social, ethical, legal and cultural opportunities and risks of digital technology.
How will I be assessed?
- Component 1 – Computer Systems – 140 Marks – 2 hours and 30 minutes – written paper.
- Component 2 – Algorithms and programming – 140 Marks – 2 hours and 30 minutes – written paper.
- Component 3 – Programming project – 70 marks – non-exam assessment.
What will you study and other information about A LEVEL Computer science
- What will I study?
- Component 1 – Computer Systems – Software development, data types, structures, algorithms, legal issues.
- Component 2 – Algorithms and programming – Computational thinking, problem-solving and programming, algorithms to solve problems.
- Component 3 – Programming project – the learner will choose a computing problem to work through according to the guidance in the specification; analysis; design; development and evaluation.
- Equipment and Financial contributions
No specific requirements.
- Field trips, projects and employability opportunities
- Programming club
- BAE Apprenticeships
Where does it lead?
Students willing to take computing further usually end up studying a computer science related degree course at university. Some students may choose to go straight into industry with fantastic apprenticeship opportunities with various employers ranging from BAE Systems to Capgemini.