GCSE Computer Science

There’s more to Computer Science than simply programming. Computer Science is the study of how computer systems work, how they are constructed and programmed. A good understanding of Maths is needed to help you on this course. This course is studied for 3 hours per week. 

It consists of a body of knowledge, a set of techniques/methods for solving problems, as well as practical programming skills. What this means is that a course in Computer Science has to cover a lot of theory teaching, as well as plenty of practical problem solving and programming.

If you want to know what happens inside a computer and the programming that helps it run, then this is the course you should choose.

SPECIFICATION LINK: 1CP1

COURSE INFORMATION: Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Computer Science (601/8058/4)

ASSESSMENT STRUCTURE

The course is assessed by two exams, worth 50% of the overall grade each. The first exam is a written paper focusing on how a computer works, networks, databases and emerging technologies.  The second paper is completed online and will cover coding using python.

The subject content is divided into six topics:

• Problem Solving (algorithms)
• Programming
• Data handling
• Computer hardware
• Communication and the internet

Edexcel GCSE Computer Science counts as a science option in the EBacc measure in secondary school performance tables. This means that a student who sits any three of the four separate sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Computer Science) and achieves a level 4 or above in two of them will fulfil the current science requirement of the EBacc.

You can opt to take both GCSE Computer Science and Creative iMedia if you wish.

Cambridge National Creative iMedia

The course will encourage students to:

• Understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of digital media (Video games, online publishing e.g. websites or online documents, books etc; interactive media e.g. online programs or travel guides) including factors that influence product design, use of media codes and conventions, pre-production planning techniques, legal issues and creation/publishing/distribution considerations
• Develop learning and practical skills that can be applied to real-life contexts and work situations
• Think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically
• Develop independence and confidence in using skills that would be relevant to the media industry and more widely
• Design, plan, create and review digital media products which are fit for purpose meeting both client and target audience requirements

SPECIFICATION LINK: J834

COURSE INFORMATION: Cambridge National in Creative iMedia (603/7090/7)

ASSESSMENT STRUCTURE

The course consists of three units, two of them are based on coursework and the third is a written exam, which is completed in the summer of Year 11. By taking this option you will be taking a Level 2 VCF course (not a BTEC) from OCR. You will gain grades equivalent to GCSE grades 9 - 1 on successful completion of the course.

The units covered are:

R093: Creative iMedia in the media industry

This is assessed by taking a 1 hour and 30 minute written exam and is worth 40% of the overall grade. In this unit you will learn about the media industry, digital media products, how they are planned, and the media codes which are used to convey meaning, create impact and engage audiences. Topics include:

• The media industry
• Factors influencing product design
• Pre-production planning
• Distribution consideration

R094: Visual identity and digital graphics

This is assessed by completing a set assignment and is worth 25% of the overall grade. In this unit you will learn to how to develop visual identities for clients and use the concepts of graphic design to create original digital graphics to engage target audiences. Topics include:

• Develop visual identity
• Plan digital graphics for products
• Create visual identity and digital graphics

R099: Digital games

This is assessed by completing a set assignment and is worth 35% of the overall grade. In this unit you will learn how to plan, create and review digital games. Topics include:

• Plan digital games
• Create digital games
• Review digital games