GCSE Computer Science

Head of Department: Mr K Fry BSc MSc
Email: kfry@stedmundscollege.org

COMPUTER SCIENCE     SPECIFICATION: OCR J276 (9-1)

Our new GCSE (9-1) Computer Science builds on the previous qualification development in this field. Relevant to the modern, changing world of computing, it is designed to boost computing skills essential for 21st century.

Why choose Computer Science?

  • Engaging and contemporary – We have links with companies such as Microsoft, Google and Cisco, organisations like Computing At School (CAS), plus teachers and academics in this field.
  • Focus on cyber security – It looks at phishing, malware, firewalls and people as the ‘weak point’ in secure systems, which students will study for the first time at this level.
  • A greater emphasis on ‘computational thinking’ – OCR have partnered with a specialist education technology company, Codio, to provide you with a cloud-based programming and course content platform where students can learn the theory and apply it in real life situations, in any computing language.
  • Encourages mental versatility – Students use their new-found programming skills on an independent coding project by solving a real-world problem of their choice.
  • Support and guidance – Students have access to excellent resources, including Codio’s platform to help you enhance your own computer science knowledge and skills
  • Computer Science is part of the English Baccalaureate.

Course Content

Computer Systems – written paper (1 hour 30 minutes)       40%

  • Systems Architecture
  • Memory
  • Storage
  • Wired and wireless networks
  • Network topologies, protocols and layers
  • System Security
  • System Software
  • Ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns

Computational thinking, algorithms & programming – written paper (1 hour 30 minutes)             40%

  • Algorithms
  • Programming techniques
  • Producing robust programs
  • Computational logic
  • Translators and facilities of language
  • Data representation

Programming Project – 20 hours Non-examination     20%

  • Programming techniques
  • Analysis
  • Design
  • Development
  • Testing