Computer Science

Exam Board: OCR

Relevant to the modern, changing world of computing, Computer Science is designed to boost computing skills essential for the 21st century.

This course is ideal for students who are new to computing topics; students who want to experience computer science to a level beyond KS3; students who are thinking of a computing career.

GCSE Computer Science at Meden focuses on:

• Computational thinking as its core, helping students to develop the skills to solve problems, design systems and understand human and machine intelligence 
• Applying the academic principles learnt in the classroom and applying them to real-world systems in an exciting and engaging way 
• Giving students a clear progression into higher education, as the course was designed after consultation with members of BCS, CAS and top universities.

Assessment

Assessment

Computer Science is assessed through two written examinations. Each exam is worth 50%.  Candidates are required to develop programming skills as part of the GCSE. These skills will reinforce and support access to the content in the GCSE written examinations.

Component 01: Computer systems (50%)

Introduces students to the central processing unit (CPU), computer memory and storage, data representation, wired and wireless networks, network topologies, system security and system software. It also looks at ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns associated with computer science.

Component 02: Computational thinking, algorithms and programming (50%)

Students apply knowledge and understanding gained in component 01. They develop skills and understanding in computational thinking: algorithms, programming techniques, producing robust programs, computational logic and translators.

Subject Video