COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
GCSE Computer Science at Grade 4 or above. If not studied previously, GCSE Mathematics at Grade 4 or above. In addition to these basic entry requirements all students looking to take Computer Science at A Level would benefit from deepening their computer programming skills in preparation for the course.
WHAT IS THE COURSE CONTENT AND HOW WILL I BE EXAMINED?
YEAR 12
Computing principles – This serves as an introduction to computer science covering a variety of topics allowing students to understand the basics of how computers work. Algorithms and problem solving component – This relates principally to problem solving skills and will cover elements of computational thinking problem solving and programming and Algorithms.
YEAR 13
Computer systems – This builds on the topics studied in computing principles in Year 1, allowing the students to gain a deeper understanding of the topics. (Years 1 and 2 – external examination).
Algorithms and programming – This builds on algorithms and problem solving studied in year 1.
Students will further develop their problem solving skills learning to think algorithmically.
(Years 1 and 2 – external examination).
Programming project – Students undertake a programming project to demonstrate the skills and knowledge they have gained. Students are able to set their own brief for the project. (Internally marked and externally moderated project).
A-Level Exam Board:
AQA
Contact details:
Head of department Mr I Hanson
I.Hanson@st-nicholas.cheshire.sch.uk@st-nicholas.cheshire.sch.uk
ST NICHOLAS EXTRA:
Students will have the opportunity to visit an organisation that uses Computer Science as part of their daily operations. This allows the students to see where the qualification could take them. In the past we have visited the Jaguar Land Rover factory
LEARNING JOURNEY
