Specification
Summary
This course leads to a GCE in Computing at either Advanced Subsidiary
or Advanced level. The specification gives a general grounding
in computing, including an understanding of computer systems,
the principles of programming, and the solving of problems. The
specification is divided into AS and A2 level. AS has two units;
computer fundamentals and programming techniques and logical methods.
A2 has two further units; advanced computer theory and the computing
project.
Prior Level of Attainment
Candidates will have been assessed in IT skills at Key Stage
3 and many will have followed a course in IT at Key Stage 4.
Whilst not assuming the full knowledge and understanding of
the subject at Key Stage 4, these specifications assume that
all candidates will have a basic understanding and knowledge
of both the hardware and software of a standard, stand-alone
computer system.
Links to Careers, Employment
and Higher Education
The course is designed to develop an
understanding of the fundamentals of computing and to provide
the knowledge and skills suitable for participation in an evolving
computer-dependent society. Computing provides opportunities
to be at the forefront of these changes and for candidates,
through their careers, to play a role in the dynamic computer-based
information society of the future. The use of a range of tools
and techniques is required to solve more extensive and more
complex problems. In today's workplace, those with knowledge
and skills in computing have the opportunity to pursue new and
exciting careers and to be instrumental in the conception of
computer systems that increasingly shape work and leisure activities.
It also goes well with subjects that contain analytical, scientific
and technological aspects. With a qualification in Computing
you could go on to further study in Higher Education or work
in one of the many vocational areas that have been born out
of the rapid expansion in technology.
This A Level is currently being revised
for first teaching in September 2008 and will take the following
assessment format.
 |
To
get a certificate for Advanced Subsidiary GCE, you will
need to have studied for and been assessed on your performance
in three AS units.
|
|
To get a certificate
for Advanced GCE, you will need to have studied for and
been assessed on your performance in three AS units, together
with three A2 units. |
AS GCE Computing
AS F451: Computer
Fundamentals
50% of the total AS GCE marks Candidates are required to answer
all questions.
1.5 h written paper
100 marks
AS F452: Programming
Techniques and Logical Methods
50% of the total AS GCE marks Candidates are required to answer
all questions.
1.5 h written paper
100 marks
Advanced GCE Computing
AS units as above, being 25% each of the total Advanced GCE
marks.
A2 level
A2 F453: Advanced
Computing Theory
30% of the total Advanced
GCE marks Candidates are required to answer all questions.
2 h written paper
120 marks
A2 F454: Computing
Project
The project is a substantial piece of work, requiring analysis
and design over an extended period of time, which is organised,
evaluated and presented in a report. Candidates choose, in conjunction
with their teacher, a well defined user-driven problem of an
appropriate size which enables them to demonstrate their skills
in Analysis, Design, Software Development, Testing, Implementation,
Documentation and Evaluation, and their interrelation, and to
give a completed overall system that solves the problem.
20% of the total Advanced GCE
marks
80 marks
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