Computer Science

Computer Science

Exam board: OCR
Course code:
H446

www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-a-level-gce-computer-science-h046-h446-from-2015/

Entry requirement: Grade 6 in Computer Science

 

Computer Science is a practical subject where students can apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real-world systems.  It is also an intensely creative subject which combines invention and excitement, and can look at the natural world through a digital prism.  The qualification involves computational thinking, helping students to develop the skills to solve problems, design systems and understand the power and limits of human and machine intelligence.

This course is the best preparation for students who want to go on to study Computer Science at a higher level and also provides a good grounding for other subject areas that require computational thinking and analytical skills such as Mathematics and Physics.

Course Assessment

Paper 1 - Computer systems

140 marks; 2 hours and 30 minutes written paper; 40% of A Level.

This component is a traditionally marked and structured question paper with a mix of question types: short-answer, longer-answer and some higher tariff questions that test the quality of written responses via a level of response mark scheme.  It covers the characteristics of contemporary computer systems architecture.

Paper 2 - Algorithms and programming

140 marks; 2 hours and 30 minutes written paper; 40% of A Level.

This component is a traditionally marked and structured question paper with a mix of question types: short-answer, longer-answer and some higher tariff questions that test the quality of written responses via a level of response mark scheme.  There is a short scenario contained in the paper which could be an algorithm or a text page-based task involving problem solving.

Paper 3 - Programming project

70 marks; non-exam assessment with external moderation; 20% of A Level.

Students and/or centres select their own user-driven problem of an appropriate size and complexity to solve.  This enables them to demonstrate the skills and knowledge necessary to meet the assessment objectives.  Students need to analyse the problem, design a solution, implement the solution and give a thorough evaluation.

Computer Systems (1) and Algorithms and programming (2) will be assessed by examinations in May/June of Year 13. The Programming project (3) is carried out from the end of Year 12 through Year 13.

Higher Education and Careers

Computer Science is of enormous importance to the economy and is an ‘underpinning’ subject across science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It is excellent preparation for students looking to take computing at degree level or employment. Students who want to go on to higher study and employment in the field of computing will find it provides a superb stepping stone and they will have an advantage over their colleagues. The increasing importance of computer programming means there will be a growing demand for professionals who are qualified in this area. It should be noted that A Level Mathematics is often a requirement for students wishing to study a degree in Computer Science.