GCSE Computer Science
Aims of the subject:
To provide pupils with a creative learning experience that will give them the confidence and enthusiasm to further their education in Computer Science and Computational Thinking.
GCSE Examination Board: AQA
Assessment Overview:
The course is assessed through two written examinations at the end of year 11. Paper 1, Computational Thinking, contributes 50% of the final grade, whilst Paper 2, Computer Science Theory, constitutes the other 50%. In addition there is a compulsory programming project that must be completed over 20 hours, although the results do not count towards the final grade.
| Year | What Will I Learn? | Assessment |
| 10 | Term 1: Systems Architecture – you will learn about the purpose and structure of the CPU and factors that affect its performance.
Memory and Storage – you will learn about the different types of memory and storage used in computer systems and their purpose.
Algorithms – you will learn how to plan a program using computational thinking techniques. You will learn how to present these plans using pseudocode and flowcharts. You will also learn about common algorithms used in Computer Science e.g. searching and sorting algorithms. |
An end of unit assessment will take place at the end of each topic. Each assessment will be made up of exam questions covering the current topic and all previously studied topics.
Mock exams will take place in line with the school calendar and will assess all topics covered up to this point through a series of exam questions. |
| Term 2: Basic Python Programming – you will learn a range of basic programming skills e.g. string manipulation, selection, loops and random number generation.
Cyber Security – you will about a range of cyber security threats, security measures and the purpose of penetration testing.
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| Term 3: Hardware and Software – you will learn about the different categories of hardware and software in a computer system. You will learn how the hardware works and the purpose of the software. You will explore the role of the Operating System and utility software.
Ethical and Legal Impacts of Computer Science – You will explore the ethical legal and environmental impacts of the following areas: Cyber security, mobile technologies, wireless networking, cloud storage, hacking, wearable technologies, computer-based implants and autonomous vehicles.
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| 11 | Term 1:Advanced Python Programming – you will learn some more advanced programming techniques including 1D and 2D arrays, advanced string manipulation and the use of subroutines.
Data Representation You will learn how numbers, characters, images and sound are converted to Binary and stored in a computer system.
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An end of unit assessment will take place at the end of each topic. Each assessment will be made up of exam questions covering the current topic and all previously studied topics.
Mock exams will take place in line with the school calendar and will assess all topics covered up to this point through a series of exam questions. |
| Term 2: Robust and Secure Programming – you will learn how to implement data validation in your programs to prevent them from crashing. You will also learn how to implement authentication routines e.g. a username and password program. You will also learn about the importance of testing.
Boolean Logic – you will learn how to draw a logic circuit and write a Boolean expression to represent a given circuit.
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| Term 3: Classification of programming languages
You will learn about high and low level programming languages and their uses. You will learn the different methods used to translate programs for computers to be able to run them.
Databases and SQL You will learn about why databases are used and create your own database. You will learn how to use SQL to search for information in a database.
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Extra-curricular opportunities
Y11 revision classes after school.
Code Club
Students can practice their coding skills and learn new code skills that go beyond the curriculum e.g. HTML to create their own website
How you can support your child’s progress
Students are set a weekly revision homework throughout Y10 and Y11, please encourage your child to complete this each week.
The following revision guide can be purchased to support your child’s learning throughout the course:
