Course Overview
This is a new course for students who particularly enjoy or would like to learn about programming computers. It is suited to students who have a logical and analytical mind and who are keenly interested to know more about how computers work and operate. Although it is very much a ‘hands-on’ course with students using computers to produce two pieces of coursework, they will also study computing concepts and theory.
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Course Title:
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GCSE Computer Science
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 View Specification
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Exam Board:
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AQA
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Course Code:
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8520
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QAN:
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601/8301/9
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Through this course students can:
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Develop their understanding of current and emerging technologies and how they work
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Look at the use of algorithms in computer programs
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Become an independent and discerning user of IT
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Acquire and apply creative and technical skills, knowledge and understanding of IT in a range of contexts
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Develop computer programs to solve problems
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Evaluate the effectiveness of computer programs/solutions and the impact of computer technology in society
Assessment Criteria
Paper 1 – Computational thinking and programming skills (50%)
Written exam: 2 hours.
What’s assessed: Computational thinking, code tracing, problem solving, programming concepts including designing algorithms and writing testing and refining of code.
Paper 2 – Computing concepts
Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes.
What’s assessed: A mix of multiple choice, short answer, longer answer and extended response questions assessing SQL programming skills and theoretical knowledge.
Where next?
It is desirable to have studied GCSE Computing if you wish to study A-Level Computing.
If you have any questions or queries relating to the ICT or Computing curriculum please email headofict@ecclesbourne.derbyshire.sch.uk for more information.