AS Level Computing (COMP-S)

AS Level Computing (COMP-S)

Course Description
AS Computing

The ability to write code in a high level programming language is an essential part of AS computing. Half of the exam tests your ability to write and understand programming. We will teach you to program while using the visual studio framework.

The computing course requires the ability to think clearly, logically and analytically and to present ideas in an orderly manner. You must understand that a computer solves problems. It does this by using a step by step series of actions to carry something out. This step by step process is called an algorithm. You will study simple and standard algorithms. You will look at the binary and hexadecimal number systems along with some Boolean algebra. Some feeling for mathematics will help students.

You do not need to have studied computing before starting the AS course, but you should be sure that you want to learn how to program. Playing games on computers, using facebook and surfing the internet will not help you pass AQA computing.

The course does not directly help you create computer games or build web sites. The exam requires you to sit at a computer and write programming code for two hours, as well as do a theory paper. This paper includes internet, networking and hardware facts.

What will I learn on this course?
AS
Unit 1 - Comp1
Problem solving, Programming, Data representation and Practical exercise
· The fundamentals of problem solving

· The fundamentals of programming

· The fundamentals of data representation

· Systems development life cycle

Unit 2 - Comp2
Computer components, The stored program concept and The internet.
· The fundamentals of computer systems

· The fundamental hardware elements of computers.

· Machine level architecture

· Hardware devices

· The structure of the internet

· Web page design

· Consequences of uses of computing

A2
Unit 3 - Comp3
Problem Solving, Programming, Operating systems, Databases and Networking.
· Problem solving

· Programming concepts

· Real numbers

· Operating systems

· Databases

· Communication and networking

Unit 4 - Comp4
The computing practical project.
· Systems development analysis

· Design

· Construction/Implementation

· Systems Testing

· Systems Maintenance

· User Manual

AS Examination
Unit 1 - Comp1
2 hours, 60% of the total AS marks.

On - screen examination.

Short answered questions and write a program

100 marks

Unit 2 - Comp2
1 hour, 40% of the total AS marks.

Compulsory short answer questions.

60 marks.

A2 Examination
Unit 3 - Comp3
2½ Hour written examination, 30% of A level.

Short answer questions and extended questions.

100 marks

Unit 4 - Comp4
20% of A level

Coursework, internally assessed, and moderated by AQA

75 marks

What kind of student is this course suitable for?
The exam requires you to sit at a computer and write programming code.

This course requires the ability to think clearly, logically and analytically and to present ideas in an orderly manner. Understand that a computer solves problems by using a step by step series of actions to carry something out. This step by step process is called an algorithm. You will study standard algorithms. Some feeling for mathematics will help students. Carrying out project work in year 2 requires perseverance and good organisational skills.

You do not need to have studied the subject before starting the course, but you should be sure you will enjoy programming. Playing games on computers, using facebook and surfing the internet will not help you pass AQA computing.

What could I do with a qualification in this subject?
The vast majority of our students have go to university though not always following a computing degree.

Entry Requirements
What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course?
If you are taking GCSE in either Computer Studies or Information Technology, then you will have to pass at Grade B. If you are taking a BTEC First, OCR National, a Digital Applications course or equivalent, you must achieve at least a Merit.
You will also have to achieve a grade B in Maths and a Grade C in English Language.
You should want to learn how to write computer programs.