KS4

KS4 Computer Science

GCSE Computer Science Specification:

OCR (Syllabus code J277)

Why Choose GCSE Computer Science?

This is a course that has real relevance in our modern world. While you will no doubt already have some knowledge of computers and related areas, the course will give you an in-depth understanding of how computer technology works and a look at what goes on "behind the scenes".

With the increasing popularity of small portable computers, such as smart phones, tablets and the Internet of Things, the ability to program is a skill which is increasingly in demand.

A recent study highlighted the lack of British programming talent, and the App (short for application, or program) industry is clamouring for young, exciting programmers (developers).

This course enables you to learn to program and appreciate more about how hardware works. Through this you will develop critical thinking, analysis and problem-solving skills.

The course is designed to be a fun and interesting way to develop these skills, which can be transferred to other subjects and even applied in day-to-day life. In this way, the course will make an excellent preparation for learners who want to study or work in areas that rely on these skills, especially where they are applied to technical problems, for example in engineering, financial and resource management, science and medicine.

Computer Science continues to have a growing importance. This means there will be a bigger demand for professionals who are qualified in this area. If you want to go on to higher study and employment in the field of Computer Science, you will find that this course provides a superb stepping-stone.

Students will:

Understand the function of the CPU and how it operates.
Understand binary notation and mathematics, produce logic diagrams and truth tables.
Explore different forms of hardware and software and understand their function and purpose.
Evaluate and reflect critically on the way you and others use IT.
Explore and learn about wired and wireless networks.
Develop coded (programmed) solutions to satisfy various problems.
Discuss and review the impact of computers.
Consider the social, legal, ethical and moral issues and security needs associated with Computing.

Assessment is by two exams (100%, each being worth 50%) and a single programming project (non-assessed).

The first exam is regarding computer systems, whereas the second looks at computational thinking, algorithms and programming.

Computer Science GCSE results are among the highest in the school. The project is a programming problem to analyse, plan, design, develop, test and evaluate. The project is a substantial coding challenge that varies from year to year.

Who is the course suitable for?

Anyone with an interest in computers, programming or the application of computers in the modern world.

For each topic studied, Topic Descriptors detail the knowledge and skills needed to progress in that topic.

Topic Descriptors are shared with students at the start of every topic.

Curriculum Overview

Year 10

	NAME OF TOPIC	KEY CONTENT OF THE TOPIC	ASSESSMENT POINTS
HT1	Logic Boolean algebra Abstraction Decomposition Logic gates Boolean algebra Truth tables The Processor	Principles of computational thinking: Abstraction Decomposition Algorithmic thinking	Half Term 1 test Multiple forms quizzes Programming Challenges
HT2	Primary memory RAM ROM Virtual memory Flash memory Cache Secondary Storage Primary memory Binary Binary Mathematics Hexadecimal Data structures Programming constructs	Principles of Hardware Programming Constructs	Half Term 2 test Multiple forms quizzes Programming Challenges
HT3	Searching Algorithms Sorting Algorithms Character Sets Data structures Programming constructs Data Images and sound Compression	Taking the understanding from KS3 and developing these algorithms and programming constructs	Half Term 3 test Multiple forms quizzes Programming Challenges
HT4	String Manipulation Arrays Data types Programming constructs Computational thinking Data structures File Handling String Manipulation	Taking the understanding from KS3 and developing these algorithms and programming constructs	Half Term 4 test Multiple forms quizzes Programming Challenges
HT5	Algorithms Testing Defensive design Sub-programs	Making software that is robust. Breaking programs down into modules and functions Testing for purpose	End of year Exam Multiple forms quizzes Programming Challenges
HT6	Algorithms Testing Defensive design Sub-programs	Making software that is robust. Breaking programs down into modules and functions Testing for purpose	Half Term 6 test Multiple forms quizzes Programming Challenges

Year 11

	NAME OF TOPIC	KEY CONTENT OF THE TOPIC	ASSESSMENT POINTS
HT1	Transmission of Data Networking	Understanding how computers are connected and how they communicate	Half Term 1 test Multiple forms quizzes Programming Challenges
HT2	Network and data security Mock Exam	Threats to our computers and networks. Understanding protocols	Mock Exam Multiple forms quizzes Programming Challenges
HT3	NEA Style Task Summary from Mock Exam	Project based programming, meeting the needs of potential clients – building towards A level	Half Term 3 test Multiple forms quizzes aimed at revision NEA style report
HT4	Ethics and Legislatio	How does our computer use affect the law, society and the environment.	Half Term 4 test Class discussions Quizzes
HT5	Revision	Going through topics identified by students and teachers	Multiple forms quizzes aimed at revision

Recommended Revision Guides for GCSE

Revision Guidance:

The Teams textbook has all the answers you need.
Use the course theory self-audit document to recap theory and look for gaps.
Prepare own summary notes for revision (mind maps or whatever works for you!)

Resources to help:

Your Microsoft Team and Class Notebook (OneNote).
Bitesize GCSE Computer Science website – written by Mr Timmins, Mr Carr and Mr Smith.
Craig and Dave videos specific for GCSE students.

Support available for GCSE Students

The Python Programming Club supports students who are struggling with programming.
Programming mentors are available to support students.
Intervention sessions online run by staff to support students.
Staff available upon request.

Sites and online courses which are useful for studying Computer Science at GCSE: