Options Booklet

Exams and Assessment Information • Pearson Edexcel Level 2 GCSE (9-1) in Computer Science consists of two externally-examined papers (each exam contributes 50% of final grade). • Paper 1 is a written examination - focusing on the Principles of Computer Science. • Paper 2 is a practical onscreen assessment - on the practical application of Computational Thinking and Python programmimg skills. What will I learn about? • How computers work and more importantly make them do what you want them to do • How all the hardware components fit together inside the box and how to make it work better • Exploring modern network layouts and how they function • Building skills in the ever-important realm of cyber security, what hacking is and how you stop it • How to code in a programming language, developing skills in several languages • Valuable thinking and programming skills that are extremely attractive in the modern workplace COMPUTER SCIENCE How will I learn? • You will have access to a range of interactive and engaging course materials via our online VLE (Showbie). • Practice Python programming via our online course on Trinket and develop your ability to think algorithmically and solve problems logically. • You will engage in practical projects to apply programming and problem-solving skills. • Research current trends in computer science, including AI and explore the ethical implications of technology Where could Computer Science take me? • King James’s Sixth Form offer A Level Computer Science, so this is a natural progression route should you wish to study the subject further. • A huge range of jobs, from Cyber Security Operative to designing the latest computer game or application. Computer Science opens the door to some many interesting and rewarding careers. • Computer Science underpins many other STEM subjects like Science and Engineering. Course Specification & further information A full GCSE studied over 2 years from Pearson Edexcel Level 2 GCSE (9-1) in Computer Science. Additional Costs and Entry Requirements • There are no formal entry requirements but it is suggested that good maths skills will be required to cope with the demands of Computer Science and have a keen interest in learning a programming language 12