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Computer Science KS4 | Years 10 & 11

Examination Board | AQA
Specification Code | 8520

Subject Content

Year 10

  • Advanced algorithm design - Full program design processes including developing code and test plans
  • How data is compressed and transferred
  • Networking and security
  • Computing Ethics and Law
  • Non-Examined programming project

Year 11

  • Advanced algorithm design - Efficiency, searching and sorting 
  • File and storage approaches
  • Networking and security - protection from issues
  • Computing Ethics and Law - Extended answers and the bigger picture
  • Non-Examined programming project - Completion of the programming project

Assessment Details

Assessment is via exam. Two 1hr 30 minute papers on Problem-Solving and algorithms (Paper 1) and Computer Systems (Paper 2).

To be successful, students will need to be able to:

  • Think creatively about finding the best solution to a given problem
  • Show resilience when working with code that may not always work the first time
  • Be prepared to experiment with a number of ideas before selecting the best
  • Enjoy the challenge of creating computer code
  • Be reflective and evaluative - Be able to critique their own and other’s work in a constructive way

Additional Equipment Recommended

Python installed on a suitable computer (or a computer with a web browser for Trinket)

What can I do to support my child at home?

  • Keep abreast of technology news - we will often discuss this in the class
  • Consider signing up for CoderDojo or other computing groups
  • Encourage coding and experimentation with code at home
  • Provide access to the internet to help with homework
  • Consider having access to a BBC Microbit, Raspberry Pi or other low cost programmable computer to help provide access to different coding projects
Websites
Books

Teaching Staff

Head of Computing and ICT

Mr Clawson - sclawson@cottesloe.bucks.sch.uk

Teachers of Computing and ICT

Mr Long - glong@cottesloe.bucks.sch.uk

Mrs Hegarty - ehegarty@cottesloe.bucks.sch.uk

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