GCSE COMPUTER SCIENCE

What will students learn?

• What algorithms are; what they are used for and how they work; ability to interpret, amend and create algorithms.

• The requirements for writing program code.

• Binary representation, data representation, data storage and compression, encryption and databases.

• Components of computer systems, ability to construct truth tables, produce logic statements and read and pseudo-code.

• Computer networks, the internet and the world wide web.

• Emerging trends in computing technologies, the impact of computing on individuals, society and the environment, including ethical, legal and ownership issues.

Skills and understanding

Exam Board Edexcel Syllabus code 1CP2

• Develop knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science.

• Develop and apply computational thinking skills to analyse problems and design solutions across a range of contexts.

• Gain practical experience of designing, writing, and testing computer programs that accomplish specific goals.

• Develop the ability to reason, explain and evaluate computing solutions.

• Develop awareness of current and emerging trends in computing technologies.

• Develop awareness of the impact of computing on individuals, society and the environment, including ethical, legal and ownership issues.

• Communicate computer science concepts and explain computational solutions clearly and concisely using appropriate terminology.

Component 1 2

Component name Principles of Computer Systems - 1CP2/01 Application of Computational Thinking. 1CP2/02

Assessment method Exam Exam

Entry requirements

Working at’ the expected skills levels by the end of Year 9. Click here to see more course specifications.

Weighting % 50% 50%

Duration of exam 1h 30m 2h