KS4 Computer Science

A high-quality computer Science education equips pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Computer Science has deep links with mathematics, science, and design and technology, and provides insights into both natural and artificial systems. The core of computer science, ensures pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Building on this knowledge and understanding, students are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Computing also ensures that pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through, information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.

Students have 3 lessons per week

Computer Science gives students a real, in-depth understanding of how computer technology works. It offers an insight into what goes on ‘behind the scenes’, including computer programming, which many students find absorbing. The course consists of 2 strands both of which are assess through a 90-minute exam worth 50% of the total mark:

J277/01: Computer systems. This component will assess:

Systems architecture
Memory and storage Computer networks, connections and protocols
Network security
Systems software
Ethical, legal, cultural and environmental impacts of digital technology.

J277/02: Computational thinking, algorithms and programming This component will assess:

Algorithms
Programming fundamentals
Producing robust programs
Boolean logic
Programming languages
Integrated Development Environments

Exam board

OCR https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/gcse/computer-science-j277-from-2020/

Important Links

http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/subjects/z34k7ty

http://www.cambridgegcsecomputing.org/

http://www.teach-ict.com/gcse_computing.html