GCE ADVANCED LEVEL SUBJECT: Computer Science [CIE] – 9618

GCE ADVANCED LEVEL SUBJECT: Computer Science [CIE] – 9618

Overview

This new A-Level has been designed for students who wish to go on to higher education courses or employment where knowledge of Computing would be beneficial. Computer Science at A-Level is a creative and wide-ranging subject. It is about using sound underlying principles and clear logical thinking to design and build systems that really work. A Computer Science A Level gives you the opportunity to learn how modern computer and communication systems work, how they can be made to work better in future, and how they can be used to build the next generation of computing applications. The course is not about learning to use tools or just training in a programming language. Instead, the emphasis is on Computational Thinking which comprises of abstraction and decomposition. These skills of focusing on priorities and breaking tasks down have been found to be valuable across all works of life. The study of computation is about what can be computed and how to compute it. Computer Science involves questions that have the potential to change how we view the world. This course, with its emphasis on abstract thinking, general problem-solving, algorithmic and mathematical reasoning, scientific and engineering-based thinking, is a good foundation for understanding these future challenges.

Course Description

Unit Code

Paper 1

Paper 2

Paper 3

Paper 4 Unit Content

Theory Fundamentals

This paper will test students understanding on the basic theory of Computer Science. Topics within this test will include Data representation, Internet Communications, Processor Fundamentals, System Software, Ethics and Security, Databases. Written examination 1hr 30 min

Weighting: 25%

Fundamental Problem-solving and Programming Skills

This paper will test students understanding on basic problem-solving skills using Pseudocode. Topics within this test will include Computational Thinking Skills, Data Types and Records, Abstract Data Types, Arrays. Written examination 2hrs

Weighting: 25%

Advanced Theory

This paper will test students understanding on the more advanced theory topics within Computer Science. Topics within this test will include Floating-point numbers, Userdefined data types, Virtual Machines, Artificial Intelligence Written examination 1hr 30 mins

Weighting: 25%

Practical Programming

This on-screen test will assess students practical programming skills using Visual Basic. Topics within this test will include Recursion, File Processing and Exception Handling On-screen examination 2hrs 30 min

Weighting: 25%

Assessment

Course Requirements

The bias towards logic, problem solving, and programming would suit students who have good mathematical skills. No prior study of Computer Science is necessary although the GCSE in Computer Science or knowledge of a programming language would be an advantage.

Career Path:

The A-Level Computer Science course is an ideal foundation for further study in related subjects such as Computing, Information Systems, Multimedia, Internet Technology, Software Engineering, Computer Networking, e-Business and Information Management. It is also a superb complement to further studies in medicine, law, business, mathematics or any type of science.