Computer Studies / Computing
Macmillan Academy - Middlesbrough
01642800800
Stockton Road, Middlesbrough, TS5 4AG
Course summary

Computer Science at A Level is a subject that helps students understand the core academic principles of computer science. It requires a systematic and logical approach to problem-solving. The ability to reason logically and to be able to see rules and patterns and how they fit together is a very important attribute for the subject. WHAT WILL I STUDY There are three units to the course: COMP 1 covers computational theory whereas COMP 2 is more focused on algorithms and the practicalities of coding. There is a good amount of crossover, so you will often be covering topics from COMP1 with the practical application of the theory in COMP2 COMP3 (Year 13) is a practical programming project worth 20% of your final A Level and will occupy much of your Y13 time. This is a substantial piece of coursework that will be started at the end of Y12 and be submitted at Easter in Y13.

Entry requirements

To study A Levels you will need to have achieved 5 grade 5s or better at GCSE (as well as achieving at least grade 4 in GCSE English and mathematics). Standard entry requirements include a minimum of a 6 in mathematics or 5 in computing. Previous study of ICT is not required.

How you'll be assessed

This subject is assessed by two examinations at the end of your course and by the submission of your coursework COMP 1 2 hour 30 minutes written paper. 40% of the total mark. COMP 2 2 hour 30 minutes written paper. 40% of the total mark. COMP 3 Coursework - Programming Project 20% of the total mark. Interim Assessments. You will also sit a number of end-of-unit assessments to measure your progress throughout the course. These will consist of past A Level questions based on the topic or topics you have covered in that half term. In addition, there are a number of practical tasks which you will be set that are intended to get you into the way of working which is required for the COMP 3 project. You will need to complete a project write-up for each of these tasks, as well as write a functional program to solve a given problem. Finally, you will have some extended investigation tasks that you will need to complete independently, in line with the way universities work.

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionNorth East
Local AuthorityMiddlesbrough
Ofsted RatingGood
Gender TypeCo-Educational
AddressStockton Road, Middlesbrough, TS5 4AG