Computer Studies / Computing

Course summary

“At its heart lies the notion of computational thinking: a mode of thought that goes well beyond software and hardware, and that provides a framework within which to reason about systems and problems.” (CAS-Computer Science a Curriculum for Schools). The content of the A Level in Computer Science is divided into three components: Computer systems component (01) contains the majority of the content of the specification and is assessed in a written paper recalling knowledge and understanding. Algorithms and programming component (02) relates principally to problem solving skills needed by learners to apply the knowledge and understanding encountered in Component 01. Programming project component (03 or 04) is a practical portfolio based assessment with a task that is chosen by the teacher or learner and is produced in an appropriate programming language of the learner’s or teacher’s choice.