Computer Science

    AQA
    A-Level

    Specification: 7517

    Computer Science develops your understanding of how computers work and how to program them effectively. You'll learn algorithms, data structures, systems architecture and develop practical programming skills.

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    Topics

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    Objectives

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    Exam Tips

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    Key Features

    • Write and debug programs
    • Design efficient algorithms
    • Understand computer systems
    • Develop computational thinking

    Assessment Objectives

    AO1
    40%-45%

    Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation

    AO2
    40%-45%

    Apply knowledge and understanding of the principles and concepts of computer science, including to analyse problems in computational terms

    AO3
    25%-30%

    Design, program and evaluate computer systems that solve problems, making reasoned judgements about these and presenting conclusions

    What Gets Top Grades

    A*/Grade 9

    Knowledge & Understanding

    Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge

    • Uses correct subject-specific terminology
    • Shows detailed understanding of concepts
    • Makes accurate connections between topics
    • Demonstrates depth beyond surface-level knowledge

    Application

    Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts

    • Selects relevant knowledge for the question
    • Adapts understanding to unfamiliar scenarios
    • Uses examples appropriately
    • Shows awareness of context

    Analysis & Evaluation

    Develops sophisticated analytical arguments

    • Constructs logical chains of reasoning
    • Considers multiple perspectives
    • Weighs evidence to reach justified conclusions
    • Acknowledges limitations and nuances

    Key Command Words

    AQA
    State
    1 mark

    Give a single fact or term

    Identify
    1 mark

    Name, select, or recognise

    Outline
    2 marks

    Set out main features briefly

    Describe
    2-4 marks

    Give an account of what something is like or what happens

    Explain
    3-6 marks

    Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains

    Compare
    2-4 marks

    State similarities AND differences (both required)

    Analyse
    6-9 marks

    Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains

    Evaluate
    6-12 marks

    Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion

    Assess
    6-12 marks

    Make judgments about importance with justification

    Calculate
    2-4 marks

    Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units

    Specification Topics

    0 topics

    No curriculum content available for this specification yet.

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