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In Computer Science, you’ll like a challenge and will have a logical approach to solving problems. A large part of this course involves learning how to use of several programming languages, primarily Python, to write computer programs to solve a series of problems. Towards the end of your first year, you’ll be able to call yourself a computer programmer!Computer Science is a technical subject where you’ll also gain an understanding of the internal structure of a computer, how the CPU actually functions, the role binary plays in storing all of the data on all of the computers in the world and also how the internet manages to function correctly on a day-to-day basis.
Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above. You will need a logical mind to write your own computer program successfully and for this reason, grade 5 in GCSE Mathematics is required.
On this course, you will:• Cover topics such as programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, computer systems and networks• Be taught how to create ‘good’ computer programs• Develop a systematic approach to solving problems using procedural, event driven, functional programming and 4th generation languages such as: Python, C#, Haskell and SQL.• Complete a practical programming project based on the requirements of a real end user• Analyse and design a range of challenging problems before creating and testing solutions• Learn how a computer translates a computer program into a form that the CPU can understand• Find out about binary, hexadecimal and how to analyse and simplify Boolean logic• Understand what really happens in the ‘heart’ of a CPU• Be able to fully appreciate what happens when you click on a link to browse the Internet • Gain an understanding of how a computer can create and play music recorded as a series of 1s and 0s
Lesson activities include writing computer programs to solve a range of problems and learning about devices and system functions through worked examples and research. Logic and the fundamentals of computational thought are also studied through presentations and class discussions backed up by out-of- class work and assignments. Progress is regularly assessed by online tests and quizzes.
80% exams, 20% coursework.Two exam papers:• Paper 1 (on-screen exam includes programming)• Paper 2 (written exam)
No additional costs. The course textbook is available online.
