Computer Science

Sixth Form > Our Pathways

Computer Science

This course is designed to be more theoretically challenging and is suited to those who plan to enter a computing profession or go on to do a computing or IT degree. It will require students to be able to work independently.

Examination Board OCR

Specification Number H446

Sixth Form > Our Pathways

Computer Science

This course is designed to be more theoretically challenging and is suited to those who plan to enter a computing profession or go on to do a computing or IT degree. It will require students to be able to work independently.

Examination Board OCR

Specification Number H446

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Course Overview

This course is designed to be more theoretically challenging and is suited to those who plan to enter a computing profession or go on to do a computing or IT degree. It will require students to be able to work independently.

 

Topics Covered

H446/01

 

A – Level

40%

2 hour 30 mins Exam

Computer Systems                      

Students learn about how computers function/operate, how data is stored and the impact of using computers

 

  • – Characteristics of contemporary processors
  • – Software and development
  • – Exchanging data
  • – Data types structures and algorithms
  • – Legal, moral and ethical issues

 

H446/02

 

A – Level

40%

2 hour 30 mins Exam

 

Algorithms and programming

Students learn about different ways to approach a problem, different types of algorithm and programming skills/techniques

  • – Elements of computational thinking
  • – Problem solving and programming
  • – Algorithms to solve problems and standard algorithms
  

H446/03-04

 

 

A – Level

20%

Coursework

Programming Project

Students design and develop their own project to solve a problem of their own design/choice.

 

  • – Definition, investigation and analysis
  • – Design
  • – Software development and testing
  • – Documentation
  • – Evaluation
  • – The written report
 
Course Leader of Computer Science

Mr Taylor

Entry Requirements

Sixth Form Entry Criteria: 

A minimum of 5 9-5 GCSE grades, which must include a grade 5 or above in either English Language or English Literature. 

 
Special Entry Requirements:
  • GCSE Maths 5+
  • GCSE Computer Science 5+ (if studied) 

Students must be prepared to work long hours outside lesson time to regularly review the topics covered.

 

Computer Scence 5
Maths 5

Assessment Information

Both Units 1 and 2 are externally assessed examinations in Year 13, and Unit 3/4 is an internally assessed and moderated coursework Unit.

 

Assessment Topic Area Duration Value
ExamComputer Systems2 hour 30 minutes40%
ExamComputer Systems2 hour 30 minutes40%
CourseworkProgramming ProjectStudents develop and design their own project to solve a problem of their own design/choice.20%

Progression Route

This qualification supports progression into further/higher education, training or employment into Computer Analyst, Software Developer/Engineer, Computer Programmer, Computer Games Developer, Computer Network Architect, and Website Developer.

 

How do I prepare? 

Recommended Reads
OCR AS and A Level Computer SciencePM Heathcote and RSU Heathcote
OCR A Level Computer ScienceGeorge Rouse, Jason Pitt & Sean O’Bryne
Computer Studies for A Level: 3rd EditionDavid Cooper
Useful Websites
Teach ICTExplore Website
Download Wider Reading List for Computer Science

    Course Leader of Computer Science

    Mr Taylor

    craig.taylor@woodgreenacademy.co.uk

    Wood Green Academy is an 11-19 over-subscribed National Support School specialising in Sport, Maths and Computing.

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