Computer Science
Exam board: OCR
Course code: J277
https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/gcse/computer-science-j277-from-2020/
For further information, please contact Mr S Perry: [email protected]
This course gives students a real, in-depth understanding of the principles behind the devices, software, and systems that drive modern life. Through practical programming and problem-solving, students don’t just use technology - they learn how to create it.
This course nurtures essential skills such as logical thinking, analysis, and creativity. By tackling coding projects and computational challenges, students develop resilience, independent learning habits, and the ability to approach complex problems systematically - skills that are valuable in every subject and in everyday life.
Course Assessment
Paper 1 - Computer systems (01)
Content: Introduces students to the central processing unit (CPU), computer memory and storage, data representation, wired and wireless networks, network topologies, system security and system software. It also looks at ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns associated with computer science.
How it is assessed: Written Examination; 1 hour and 30 minutes; 80 marks; 50% of GCSE.
Paper 2 - Computational thinking, algorithms and programming (02)
Content: Students apply knowledge and understanding gained in component 01. They develop skills and understanding in computational thinking: algorithms, programming techniques, producing robust programs, computational logic and translators.
How it is assessed: Written Examination; 1 hour and 30 minutes; 80 marks; 50% of GCSE.
Practical programming
Students are to be given the opportunity to undertake a programming task(s) during their course of study which allows them to develop their skills to design, write, test and refine programs using a high-level programming language. Students will be assessed on these skills during the written examinations, in particular component 02 (section B).
Higher Education and Careers
Computer Science is of enormous importance to the economy and as an ‘underpinning’ subject across STEM subjects. GCSE Computer Science provides excellent preparation for further study in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, or Engineering. It also opens doors to a wide range of future careers, from software development and cybersecurity to data science and artificial intelligence - areas that are in growing demand across the world.
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