Maths and Computing
GCSE Computer Science
This course cannot be chosen as well as ICT (Cambridge Nationals) in Block A
"Binary is as easy as 01, 10, 11."
Why choose GCSE Computer Science?
Computing is of enormous importance to the economy, and the role of Computer Science as a discipline itself
and as an 'underpinning' subject across Science and Engineering is growing rapidly. Computer technology
continues to advance rapidly and the way that technology is consumed has also been changing at a fast pace
over recent years. The growth in the use of mobile devices and web-related technologies has exploded,
resulting in new challenges for employers and employees. For example, businesses today require an everincreasing number of technologically-aware individuals. This is even more so in the gaming, mobile and web
related industries
What will students learn?
1. Algorithms
2. Programming
3. Data representation
4. Computer systems
5. Computer networks
6. Cyber security
7. Ethical, legal and environmental impacts of digital technology on wider society.
8. Aspects of software development
The course consists of 3 units:

Paper 1- Computational thinking and problems solving
Students will develop a body of knowledge about computational thinking, problem solving, code tracing and
applied computing as well as theoretical knowledge of computer science the examination will be a mix of
multiple choice, short-answer and longer-answer questions assessing a student’s practical problem solving and
computational thinking skills.
This will be assessed in a 1 hour 30 minutes written examination in the summer of year 11. It is worth 40% of
the final grade.

Paper 2- Computational thinking and problems solving
Students will develop a body of knowledge about fundamentals of data representation, computer systems,
computer networks, cyber security, Ethical, legal and environmental impacts of digital technology on wider
society. The examination will be a mix of multiple choice, short-answer, longer-answer and extended response
questions assessing a student’s theoretical knowledge.
This will be assessed in a 1 hour 30 minutes written examination in the summer of year 11. It is worth 40% of
the final grade.
 Computer program project
Students will design, write and test a computer program and will solve a given problem. Students will produce
an original report outlining the development of this project
This project is worth 20% of the final grade.
For further information please see Ms Dolton or Mr Habgood