Exams and Assessments (OCR A-Level Computer Science): Revision Notes
📚 Revision Notes
Examination Guide
Overview
For your A-Level Computer Science, you will complete three key components. These will assess both your theoretical understanding and practical skills. Here's what you need to know about the exams and project.
Component 01: Computer Systems
Content Covered:
- Characteristics of contemporary processors.
- Input, output, and storage devices.
- Software and software development.
- Exchanging data.
- Data types, data structures, and algorithms.
- Legal, moral, cultural, and ethical issues.
Assessment Format:
- Type: Written paper.
- Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes.
- Marks: 140 marks.
- Weighting: 40% of your total A-Level grade.
- Note: Calculators are not allowed.
Component 02: Algorithms and Programming
Content Covered:
- Elements of computational thinking.
- Problem-solving and programming.
- Algorithms to solve problems and standard algorithms.
Assessment Format:
- Type: Written paper.
- Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes.
- Marks: 140 marks.
- Weighting: 40% of your total A-Level grade.
- Note: Calculators are not allowed.
Component 03/04: Programming Project
In this component, you'll work through a computing problem of your choice, following the guidance provided in the specification. This allows you to demonstrate your ability to develop and apply computational thinking skills.
Key Stages:
- Analysis of the Problem.
- Design of the Solution.
- Development of the Solution.
- Evaluation.
Assessment Format:
- Type: Non-exam assessment (NEA).
- Marks: 70 marks.
- Weighting: 20% of your total A-Level grade.
- Submission: Moderated through upload, postal submission, or carry forwards options.
infoNote
Key Points to Remember
- The written papers (Components 01 and 02) account for 80% of your final grade.
- The Programming Project (Component 03/04) accounts for 20% of your final grade.
- Synoptic assessment: You'll draw on knowledge and skills from across the course in your exams and projects.