The course will give students a real, in-depth understanding of how computer technology works. Students will no doubt be familiar with the use of computers and other related technology from their other subjects and elsewhere. However, the course will give them an insight into what goes on ‘behind the scenes’, including computer programming, which many students find absorbing. 

Topics covered

• Critical thinking, analysis and problem-solving skills through the study of computer programming. For many students, it’ll be a fun and interesting way to develop these skills, which can be transferred to other subjects and even applied in day-to-day life
• Component 01: Introduces students to the central processing unit (CPU), computer memory and storage, data representation, wired and wireless networks, network topologies, system security and system software. It also looks at ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns associated with Computer Science
• Component 02: Students apply knowledge and understanding gained in component 01. They develop skills and understanding in computational thinking: algorithms, programming techniques, producing robust programs, computational logic and translators
• Practical programming: Students are to be given the opportunity to undertake a programming task(s) during their course of study which allows them to develop their skills to design, write, test and refine programs using a high-level programming language. Students will be assessed on these skills during the written examinations. In particular, component 02 (section B)

Assessment

• Examination Unit 1: 50% of final grade – examination at the end of Year 11
• Examination Unit 2: 50% of final grade – examination at the end of Year 11