AQA Computer Science
Why study computer science?
Computer science is a dynamic and rapidly growing area that has become an integral part of the world we live in. Many problems in science, engineering, health care and business are solved using computer science and many university courses now include coding modules
The A-Level builds upon knowledge acquired at GCSE. Practical programming forms a significant element of the course, both in the programming exam and a project of your choosing where you plan, develop, create, and test your own computer program. You will also learn theoretical aspects of computer science which will inform and support your understanding of how technology is used in the world today.
Entry requirements
We recommend all candidates will have achieved a minimum of 7 in GCSE computer science or mathematics. Equivalent vocational qualifications and individual cases will be considered.
If a student has not studied computer science previously, they must show willing to spend the preceding summer learning to code We can provide resources to help
What is involved?
• Develop your programming skills, learn to solve problems and write algorithms using procedural (C#), object oriented (C#) and functional (Haskell) programming paradigms
• Study core concepts of computing such as communication and networking, processor architecture, the relationship between hardware and software, how computers represent data, databases and the challenges of big data
• You will use the skills learnt on the course to undertake a project of your choosing. Projects chosen by students in the past have included a 3D graphics renderer, a chess game with built in AI and an online learning platform for students and teachers.
How will I be assessed?
• Paper 1
Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes (40% of A-level) The focus of this paper is programming and problem solving and involves writing, adapting, and extending programs written in C#.
• Paper 2 - Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes (40% of A-level) The focus of this paper is the theory of computer science: delving deeper into topics studied at GCSE along with new topics such as Big Data and Functional Programming.
• Non-exam assessment – Student project (20% of A-level). You will use the knowledge and skills gained through the course to solve or investigate a practical problem of your choosing
