OCR A-Level Computer Science
Computing is becoming ever more important in society. Our A level Computer Science qualification will ensure you develop technical knowledge, such as how to program, and problem-solving skills. These are both highly desired by all employers. The course is split into three main sections: Computer Fundamentals, Programming Techniques and Logical Methods, and a Programming Project. A natural progression from GCSE (9 – 1) Computer Science, it provides the perfect springboard for those of you looking at specialising in a computing-based career.
Within the course, you will study a range of theory topics, which include the principles and understanding linked to programming, topics such as hardware and software, networks, systems development life cycles and implications of computer use.
A- Level Computer Science will develop your ability to:
- Think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically. These are all skills that are highly desired by employers.
- Apply skills in and an understanding of computing (including programming) in a range of contexts to solve problems.
- Delve into producing graphical user interfaces and object orientated programming solutions.
Through the creation of a programming project, you will have the opportunity to create a substantial piece of software using modern design methods and, guided by your teachers, you will have the scope to display your skills and talents!
Entry requirements: Students will need a grade 5 in computer science or a Grade 6+ in maths if they have not studied it at GCSE.
Career opportunities: There is not enough room on this page to cover the careers that you could go into with a qualification in Computing. You could choose to become a programmer and work for a large technology firm such as Google or Amazon, or a smaller business. You could become a project manager using the problem solving skills that you will develop, a web developer, an ethical hacker or a game designer! Or you could go into a wealth of other industries such as banking and finance, or the sciences. Many students of A Level Computer Science will go on to study the subject at university level. If you choose not to study Computing at university, almost every course at higher education and any career will view your A Level Computer Science qualification in high regard.
What will I study?
Year 12
Component 1: The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices
- Software and software development
- Exchanging data
Component 2: Elements of computational thinking
- Problem solving and programming
- Algorithms to solve problems and standard algorithms
Year 13: This year will focus on revisiting content from year 12. Alongside, you will be completing your NEA, under exam conditions within lessons. This is assessing knowledge from component 2 on a practical level.
- Data types, data structures and algorithms
- Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues
Assessment overview:
Paper 1: (40% of the total qualification)
- The structure and function of different types of processor
- Software and software development
- Networking
- Web security
- Data types, data structures and algorithms
- Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues
Paper 2: (40% of the total qualification)
- Computational thinking and problem solving
- Algorithms and programming
NEA: (20% of the total qualification)
You will choose your own computing problem to solve
- Analysis of the problem
- Design of the solution
- Developing the solution (programming)
- Evaluate the solution
For More information on OCR Computer Science:
http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-a-level-gce-computer-science-h046-h446-from-2015/
http://www.treeknox.com/general/puzzles/logical/index.php