Computer Science

Specification: OCR
Qualification: A Level

Head of Department: Mr Peter Williams
Email: peter.williams@gryphon.dorset.sch.uk

Why study Computer Science?

Computer science is the study of computer systems, including: hardware and software components, algorithms and programming. You will learn the necessary skills to be a proficient programmer and solve real world problems using creative and innovative high-tech solutions. You will be taught logical thinking skills that will benefit your future studies at university and beyond, and you will also be better prepared for the increasing number of new and lucrative careers within the IT industry. If you want to work with cutting edge technology and be part of the digital revolution, then computer science is the right course for you.

What will I study?

Computer Systems:

Includes: the characteristics of processors, input, output and storage devices, software and software development, exchanging data, data types, data structures and legal, moral, ethical and cultural issues.

Algorithms and Programming:

Relates principally to problem solving skills and includes: understanding algorithms, elements of computational thinking and programming.

Programming Project:

A practical assessment involving a task that is chosen by the student and their teacher and is produced in a programming language of their choice. Students will work through their project according to the guidance in the specification and complete the following tasks: analysis of the problem, design of the solution, development of the solution and evaluation of the solution.

Assessment method

A level

Two written exam papers

Paper 1: Computer Systems – worth 40%
Paper 2: Algorithms and Programming – worth 40%

And:

One piece of coursework – Programming Project – worth 20%

Future Opportunities & Careers

This qualification could aid progression onto a variety of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) based degree courses. Computer Science combines well with subjects that benefit from a logical and systematic approach, and those with analytical, scientific & technological aspects.

Entry requirements

Grade 5 in Maths and IT GCSE

Course expenses

OCR AS and A Level Computer Science Textbook by PM Heathcote and RSU Heathcote (£30 RRP)

KS5 Progression

Throughout Key Stage 5, students develop a deep understanding of the principles of computer science while building advanced programming, analytical and problem-solving skills.

Students develop knowledge of computer systems, software, networks, cyber security, databases, data representation and the legal, moral, cultural and ethical implications of technology. They learn to understand how computer systems operate, evaluate different technologies and explain complex technical concepts using accurate terminology.

As the course progresses, students strengthen their computational thinking skills through the study of algorithms, programming techniques and problem decomposition. They learn to analyse problems, design efficient solutions, write and refine programs, test and debug code, and evaluate the effectiveness of their solutions.

A significant aspect of the course is the independent programming project, through which students develop project management, research and development skills. They learn to investigate a problem, design a solution, implement and test a working program, and evaluate the outcome, demonstrating independence and creativity throughout the process.

KS5 End point

By the end of Key Stage 4, students should have a secure understanding of computer systems, networks, cyber security, data representation and the wider impact of digital technology.

They should be able to apply computational thinking to analyse problems, design algorithms, write, test and debug programs, and evaluate the effectiveness of their solutions.

Students leave the course with advanced programming, analytical and critical thinking skills that provide a strong foundation for higher education and careers in computing, software development, cyber security, data science and related fields.