Computer Science
“The rise of Google, the rise of Facebook, the rise of Apple, I think are proof that there is a place for computer science as something that solves problems that people face every day.”
Eric Schmidt, Executive Chairman, Alphabet Inc
“It should be mandatory that you understand Computer Science.”
Will.i.am, musician and entertainer
"Never before in history has innovation offered promise of so much to so many in so short a time."
Bill Gates, Co-founder, Microsoft Corporation
Why should I study Computer Science?
The most important aspect of Computer Science is problem solving, an essential skill for life. You will study the design, development and analysis of software and hardware used to solve problems in a variety of business, scientific and social contexts. This course is ideal for students who wish to go on to degrees or employment where knowledge of computing would be beneficial. As well as working in the computing industry, students who study Computer Science may go on to a career in medicine, law, business, politics or any type of science. The application of logical and computational thinking complements many university based courses.
Topics include:
- Computational thinking
- Programming (including Python, SQL, HTML and JavaScript)
- Problem solving
- Boolean Algebra
- Algorithms
- Legal, moral and ethical issues
The emphasis of this course is computational thinking; the reasoning used by both humans and machines. The course looks at understanding how computers operate and understand why they operate in the way they do. It aims to develop in students the necessary skills in order to develop methods to interact with a computer.
How will I be assessed?
- There are two units which are both assessed through written examination, each 2 hours and 30 minutes:
- Component 1 - Computer Systems – worth 40% of the total A Level
- Component 2 – Algorithms and programming - worth 40% of the total A Level
- In addition, there is a programming project where you can select your own user-driven problem to demonstrate skills and knowledge of algorithms, coding and system solutions
- Component 3 – Programming project – worth 20% of the total A Level
- This project is individual coursework
- Previous students have chosen projects including:
- Databases
- Mobile apps
- Educational games
Programming
We use Python as our main programming language and if you would like to gain some knowledge and experience in this programming language, there are many support websites available including:
You must have achieved at least a G6 in Mathematics at GCSE and a G5 in English/English Literature.
For further details please contact Liz Kershaw lk@pershore.worcs.sch.uk
For more information about the course, please see the OCR website https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-a-level-gce/computer-science-h046-h446-from-2015/