OCR
GCSE
1 GCSE (Grades 1-9)
Technology permeates every part of our society. Everything from mobile phones to banks, and theme parks to education, relies on the power of computing. All students need to be prepared for a world dominated by digital technology and GCSE Computer Science is an opportunity for some to study a demanding, yet rewarding, course to help prepare them for life in a digital world.
Computer Science will give you an in-depth understanding of how computer technology works and a look at what goes on 'behind the scenes'. It’s a great way to develop critical thinking, analysis and problem-solving skills, which can be transferred to further learning and everyday life.
The course can be divided up into sections as detailed below:
Computer Programming - Lots of the course will be spent learning computer programming. Through the study of this discipline, the course will help you develop computational thinking skills. You will learn the complex underpinning theory to programming and, for those for whom logic and problem-solving come naturally; it will be a fun and interesting way to develop these skills, which can be transferred to other subjects (especially mathematics and science).
Academic Theory - It is a fact that information technologies continue to have a growing importance and the theoretical knowledge to support your learning will include:
Developing an understanding of current and emerging technologies, understanding of how they work and applying this knowledge and understanding in a range of contexts
Using your knowledge and understanding of computer technology to become independent and discerning users of IT, able to make informed decisions
Evaluating the effectiveness of computer programs/solutions and the impact of, and issues related to, the use of computer technology in society
It is vital that students get to grips with the underpinning logic that is so important to the study of computer science.
You will need to:
acquire and apply a knowledge of technical skills
show an understanding of the use of algorithms in computer programs to solve problems using programming
gain and apply creative and technical skills, knowledge and understanding of IT in a range of contexts
develop computer programs to solve problems
Two written examinations: Summer of Year 11
There is a large amount of programming in the course which requires a good level of logic and problem-solving ability. With this in mind, we would like to offer the course to those students who are currently working at a Grade 3 (on the new grading system) or above in Maths. If students are interested in pursuing a more familiar course in Information Technology, it is certainly worth considering the NCFE vocational course in ICT which adopts a more creative, user-focused, approach to the subject.
PLEASE NOTE THAT IT IS NOT POSSIBLE TO STUDY BOTH THE VOCATIONAL AWARD IN ICT AND THE GCSE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE.
Computing skills are amongst the most highly-desired by employers. There is a national shortage of people with both the technical understanding and the practical skills across many sectors of industry. Having a background in this subject will set up young people well for any career or courses they pursue throughout their life.
Students who have taken a Computer Science GCSE and then progress to take similar subjects at A Level, in a job or at university will have a sound underpinning knowledge of this area. All employers will expect students to have a good capability in Information Technology but to have studied the subject at an academic level will help demonstrate to any employer or education provider, that you are well-versed in a range of skills and capabilities that equip you for the digital world.
https://isaaccomputerscience.org/topics/gcse?examBoard=all&stage=all#ocr