Computer Science

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COURSE OVERVIEW

The main focus of this A-Level is to understand the mechanics of programming. 

Students will learn to solve problems in a strategic manner including the production, implementation, and testing of appropriate computational solutions. 

To this end, students will study the fundamentals of computer systems, programming, data structures and networking in addition to the theory of computation. Students will learn Python as the main programming language, but other languages will be studied for comparison.

 

Assessment structure

Students will complete a personal project to solve a real-world problem. This will allow them to demonstrate their problem-solving skills in addition to the technical skills they will accrue during the course.

On screen exam 40%: Covering fundamentals of programming, data structures, problem-solving and theory of computation and algorithms.

Written exam 40%: Covering fundamentals of data representation, computer systems, computer organization and architecture, communication and networking and consequences of uses of computing, fundamentals of databases, functional programming, and knowledge of Big Data.

Project 20%: Demonstrate the student's ability to use the knowledge and skills gained through the course to solve a practical problem. 


 

What can pupils’ study next?

This is a valuable course in relation to entry to all branches of study which require problem-solving; notably Mathematics, Engineering, and Science but also as a complementary subject to Art, Languages, Music and the Social Sciences.  

It is also a subject worth studying in its own right with many universities now offering a dedicated Computer Science degree course.

 

Who can I contact for further information?

Mr Naden: alan.naden@bcschool.co.uk

 

 

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