The study of computation is also about what can be computed and how to compute it. Computer Science involves questions that have the potential to change how we view the world. You’ll be encouraged to develop an appreciation of the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science – including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation. This is a practical subject that enables you to apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real world systems.
It is a creative subject that helps you to develop the skills to solve problems, design systems and understand the power and limits of human and machine intelligence. You will learn how to analyse issues, design complex algorithms and write programs to solve problems. The course is not just about programming. It also covers a wide range of other topics, including hardware, database design, data structures, algorithm complexity and networking.
Year 10 topics
3.1 – Fundamentals of algorithms
3.2 – Programming
3.3 – Data representation
3.4 – Computer systems
3.5 – Networking
Year 11 topics
3.6 – Cyber security
3.7 – Databases and SQL
3.8 – Impacts on technology
Computing Curriculum Journey
GCSE Computer Science Calendar for Years 10 & 11
Programming Languages
Python 3 – Python 3.0 Release | Python.org
Links to exam board websites: AQA GCSE – AQA | GCSE | Computer Science | Specification at a glance
Links to further independent learning websites:
Hour of Code – https://code.org/learn
Code Academy – http://www.codecademy.com/learn
BBCS Bitesize Computer Science – http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/subjects/z34k7ty
Logic Puzzles (to develop logical thinking) – http://www.logic-puzzles.org/
How to think like a computer scientist – Runestone Interactive
If you have any questions about GCSE Computer Science please do not hesitate to contact one of the class teachers; Mrs Lucas, Mr Ryall or Mr Stacey-Moore.
