Computer Science

Course summary

The A-level Computer Science specification requires students to think in both concrete and abstract terms, spanning both theory and practice. You will study the technical aspects of hardware and networking, alongside concepts of programming. There is also a significant focus on computational thinking – a style of reasoning used by both machines and humans, which is useful in problem solving. It is recommended that students choosing to study this subject at A-level, should have the skills and knowledge associated with a GCSE Computer Science course or equivalent. Core Content 1. Fundamentals of programming 2. Fundamentals of data structures 3. Systematic approach to problem solving 4. Theory of computation 5. Fundamentals of data representation 6. Fundamentals of computer systems 7. Fundamentals of computer organisation and architecture 8. Consequences of uses of computing 9. Fundamentals of communication and networking 10.Fundamentals of databases 11.Big Data 12.Fundamentals of functional programming 13.Systematic approach to problem solving 14.Non-exam assessment – the computing practical project In Computer Science, you will work both independently and with others. Your teacher(s) will encourage you to pre-learn content covered in lessons and deliver the subject content to you through a range of methods that promote interactive learning. Lessons will focus on the theory behind data, computing and look at how algorithms are used. Lesson tasks, study tasks and homeworks will centre around problem solving. https://www.ashmoleacademy.org/_site/data/files/post16/1665D110BFBC2774CA4DFED150071DED.pdf#page=14