Computing
What do I need to know before choosing this subject?
This course will develop your understanding of the principles of Computing. It will provide a sound understanding of the internal structure of computers, how they are used in the real world, how they operate and their use in solving problems. It will also teach you the basics in a range of programming languages with an emphasis on problem solving. During the course you will further develop an understanding of a wide variety of applications of computers and the effects of their use. You will become skilled in systems analysis and you will develop your capacity for critical thinking. The practical tasks will allow you to develop your project management skills.
The activities which take place in your lessons will vary a great deal. At times, it will be quite different to what you have experienced in your GNVQ lessons. You may be asked, simply to take notes, to participate in discussions, to research a topic or to learn higher skills in a programming language or typical application software packages which eventually lead to the creation and documentation of computer solutions. Computing overlaps a great deal with the ICT course but it does deal with the technical aspects and programming in more detail.
The course is challenging and will suit those students with a special interest in Computing. It is important that you have a lively and enquiring mind, a willingness to explore new areas and an ability to communicate your ideas effectively. It is essential that you have studied ICT in years 10 and 11 and gained a GNVQ or a good GCSE grade. A commitment to working with computers is an essential requirement to take on this enjoyable, fast moving and stimulating subject at AS and A2.
The AS (Advanced Subsidiary specification)
This is the first half of the full A level course. At the end of year 12, you will be examined on the topics you have studied. The final mark scored will become half the marks of your full A level qualification should you wish to continue Computing at A2. Assessment is based on three exam papers. Paper 3 requires you to complete a practical solution (using MS-Access) to a problem set by the board prior to the exam. The marks are allocated as shown:
Unit | Title | Exam duration | Marks |
Unit 1: | Computer Systems,Programming and Netork Concepts | 1hr 30 mins | 35% of the AS 17.5% of full A level |
Unit 2: | Principles of Hardware, Software and applications | 1hr 30 mins | 35% of the AS 17.5% of full A level |
Unit 3:: | Practical Systems development | 1hr 30 mins + Coursework | 30% of the AS 15% of full A level |
The AS+A2 (Advanced Subsidiary specification)
The full A level qualification is made up of the 3 AS units plus three more Units studied at A2. Unit 6 consists of a practical project in MS-Access. You will study the following Units at A2:
Unit | Title | Duration | Marks |
Unit 4: | Processing and Programming Techniques | 1hr 30 mins | 15% of full A level |
Unit 5: | Advanced System Development | 1hr 30 mins | 15% of full A level |
Unit 6: | The use of generic application software for task solution. | 20% of full A level |
The content and activities on this course, makes it excellent preparation for those wishing to continue their education at University. It is also good preparation for those students seeking employment in an environment where computers are used. Computing will equip students with skills, which may benefit other areas too. The course is challenging and highly motivating covering a wide range of fascinating concepts.