Specification - GCSE Computing
eBaccrecognisedComputingGCSE 2012ComputingSpecificationJ275Version 1April 2012ocr.org.uk/gcsecomputing
GCSE COMPUTINGWHY CHOOSE OCR GCSE COMPUTING?This carefully planned course gives students a real, indepth understanding of how computer technology works.It offers an insight into what goes on ‘behind the scenes’,including computer programming, which many studentsfind absorbing.lIt’s a great way to develop critical thinking, analysisand problem-solving skills, which can be transferred tofurther learning and to everyday life.lStudents who want to go on to higher study andemployment in the field of computer science will find itprovides a superb stepping stone.lExciting new resources: we’ve teamed up with partnerssuch as Raspberry Pi and Computing At School toinvigorate the curriculum and develop new resources.lComputer Science is now part of the EnglishBaccalaureate and is included as one of the qualificationsthat count towards new school performance measures.Any Computing specifications included in the EBacc haveto be approved by BCS (The Chartered Institute for IT) –and our GCSE Computing has been.THROUGH THIS QUALIFICATIONlDevelop their understanding of current and emergingtechnologies and how they worklLook at the use of algorithms in computer programslBecome independent and discerning users of ITlAcquire and apply creative and technical skills,knowledge and understanding of IT in a range ofcontextslDevelop computer programs to solve problemslEvaluate the effectiveness of computer programs/solutions and the impact of computer technology insociety.iii
COURSE SUMMARYHere’s a summary of the course details and the Assessment Objectives for GCSE Computing:Unit title and descriptionAssessment and durationWeightingUnit A451: Computer systems and programming1 hour 30 minutesWritten paper80 marks40%Investigative task. OCR-setscenario with a choice ofresearch tasks.45 marks30%Controlled assessmentProgramming task. Design,develop and test a solution toa problem within the OCR-setscenario.45 marks30%This unit covers the body of knowledge aboutcomputer systems on which the examination willbe based.Unit A452: Practical investigationAn investigative computing task, chosen froma list provided by OCR, Controlled assessmentwhich assesses the following: research, technicalunderstanding, analysis of problem, historicalperspective, use of technical writing skills,recommendations/evaluation.Unit A453: Programming ProjectStudents will need to: Understand standard programming techniques Be able to design a coded solution to a problemincluding the ability to:- Develop suitable algorithms- Design suitable input and output formats- Identify suitable variables and structures- Identify test procedures. Create a coded solution fully annotating thedeveloped code to explain its function Test their solution:- To show functionality- To show how it matches the design criteria- Identifying successes and any limitations.ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVESStudents are expected to demonstrate the following: AO1 Recall, select and communicate their knowledge and understanding of computer technology AO2 Apply knowledge, understanding and skills to solve problems by using computer programs AO3 Analyse and evaluate, make reasoned judgements and present conclusions.iv
WITH YOU ALL THE WAYOCR social network. Join this free platform to shareideas and best practice, offer guidance and more. Tosign up, go to social.ocr.org.ukWorking with teachers and other experts, we’ve createda practical package of high-quality resources andsupport to help you at every stage.OCR Blogs. Read our new Computing, ICT andDesign and Technology which is designed to keepyou informed of our work and provide an interestinginsight into the world of an awarding organisation. Visitocrblogs.org.uk.SUPPORT MATERIALThis is designed to save you time while you preparefor and teach our specifications. Our essential FREEsupport includes all this and more:PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENTPROGRAMME Past papers and mark schemes Exemplar candidate workTake advantage of our improved ProfessionalDevelopment Programme, designed specifically withyou in mind. Teacher’s Handbook Unofficial teacher’s guide Sample schemes of work and lesson plansWe are constantly looking for ways in which we canimprove the support we offer to teachers, so we’vemade our professional development programme moreaccessible to all by making it as easy as 1, 2, 3 (and 4!):1. Introduction and understanding of yourspecification through our online videos.2. Review of the External Assessment presentations toguide you through the lessons learnt from the lastexam series.3. Interaction opportunities through our live onlineevents and face-to-face training.4. Advancement of your knowledge and reinvigoration of your passion at our Premier CPDevents.Access all our support at ocr.org.uk/gcsecomputing.New! The Raspberry Pi is a low-cost,credit-card-sized, programmablecomputer developed by theRaspberry Pi Foundation, acharitable organisation linked toCambridge University. We’ve beenworking with Raspberry Pi andleading practitioners to createresources to liven up your lessons. There’s more on ourwebsite at ocr.org.uk/raspberrypi.SERVICESTo find out more about our Professional DevelopmentProgramme, visit our website atocr.org.uk/professionaldevelopmentAnswers @ OCR. Find specific, up-to-date information,browse hot topics and FAQs, or email us with yourquestions with this web-based service.Visit answers.ocr.org.uk.You can contact our professional development team byemailing professionaldevelopment@ocr.org.uk or bycalling 02476 496398.Active Results for GCSE. A free online results analysisservice. Find out more at ocr.org.uk/activeresultsOCR Interchange. A secure website for centres whichoffers a variety of services for Exams Officers andteachers. Visit it at interchange.ocr.org.ukv
cambridge gcse computing online Introducing ‘Cambridge GCSE Computing online’ – anambitious new approach to teaching and learningcomputingAn innovative joint projectCambridge University Press will provide animpressive collection of teaching and learningresources to support each video, creating a singlecourse of study for GCSE Computing.A Cambridge-based partnership of exam boardOCR, the Raspberry Pi Foundation and CambridgeUniversity Press are working towards thedevelopment of the first online GCSE Computingcourse, to support teaching and learning in thisdynamic and exciting area of the curriculum.Raspberry Pi, the innovative credit-card-sizedcomputer, is playing a leading part in the videoseries as a key learning tool for Computing.How to find out moreTogether, our aim is to drive forward educationalexcellence both in the UK and internationally andto help the development of much-needed skillsand knowledge in computer science. With thisin mind, we are creating the exciting ‘CambridgeGCSE Computing online’, based on the pioneeringOCR GCSE in Computing launched in 2011. Asthe UK’s first online GCSE Computing course,it will provide an opportunity for teachers andstudents to reach higher in this dynamic area ofthe curriculum.The roll-out of the videos will begin in autumn2013 but a sample is available to view atcambridgegcsecomputing.org.So that you are always informed aboutdevelopments, sign up for Computing updates atocr.org.uk/updates.High-quality learning contentdelivered onlineAt the core of ‘Cambridge GCSE Computing online’are online learning blocks that can be used flexiblyto complement and support teaching – over onehundred short videos, covering the entire contentof OCR’s GCSE Computing (but excluding theassessment element).vi
A FEW GOOD REASONS TO WORK WITHOCR You can enjoy the freedom and excitement of teachingqualifications that have been developed to help youinspire students of all abilities. We’ve built specifications with you in mind, using aclear and easy-to-understand format, making themstraightforward for you to deliver. Our clear and sensible assessment approach means thatexam papers and requirements are clearly presented andsensibly structured for you and your students. Pathways for choice – we have the broadest range ofqualifications and our GCSEs provide an ideal foundationfor students to progress to more-advanced studies andinto the workplace. Working in partnership to support you – together withteachers we’ve developed a range of practical help andsupport to save you time. We provide support for youto teach our specifications with confidence and ensurethat your students get as much as possible from ourqualifications. As well as providing you with a wide range of supportservices and resources to pick and choose from, we’re alsohere to help you with specialist advice, guidance andsupport for those times when you simply need a moreindividual service.vii
YOUR CHECKLISTOur aim is to provide you with all the information andsupport you need to deliver our specifications.3Bookmark ocr.org.uk/gcsecomputingus know you’ll be teaching GCSE Computing to3Letreceive the latest information on our support andresources at ocr.org.uk/computingsignup.your training place online at3Bookocr.org.uk/eventbookermore about active results at3Learnocr.org.uk/activeresultsour Computing/Computer Science social network3Joincommunity for teachers at social.ocr.org.ukNEED MORE HELP?Here’s how to contact us for specialist advice:Phone: 01223 553998Email: general.qualifications@ocr.org.ukOnline: answers.ocr.org.ukFax: 01223 552627Post: Customer Contact Centre, OCR, Progress House,Westwood Business Park, Coventry CV4 8JQWHAT TO DO NEXTBecome an approved OCR centre – if your centre iscompletely new to OCR and has not previously used usfor any examinations, visit ocr.org.uk/centreapproval tobecome an approved OCR centre.viii
OCR GCSE in Computing J275J275QN-500/8291/7 OCR 2012 GCSE Computing1
Contents1. Introduction to GCSE Computing1.1 Overview of GCSE Computing41.2 Guided learning hours51.3 Aims and learning outcomes51.4 Prior learning52. Content of GCSE Computing2.1 Unit A451: Computer systems and programming662.2 Unit A452: Practical investigation122.3 Unit A453: Programming project143. Assessment of GCSE Computing163.1 Overview of the assessment in GCSE Computing J275163.2 Assessment Objectives (AOs)173.3 Grading and awarding grades183.4 Grade descriptions193.5 Quality of written communication204. Controlled assessment in GCSE Computing214.1 Controlled assessment tasks214.2 Planning and managing controlled assessment214.3 Marking and moderating controlled assessment234.4 Submitting the moderation samples via the OCR Repository325. Support for GCSE Computing335.1 Free resources available from the OCR website335.2 Other resources335.3 Training335.4 OCR support services346. Equality and Inclusion in GCSE Computing356.1 Equality Act information relating to GCSE Computing356.2 Arrangements for candidates with particular requirements (including Special Consideration)357. Administration of GCSE Computing24367.1 Availability of assessment from 2014367.2 Certification rules367.3 Rules for re-taking a qualification367.4 Making entries377.5 Enquiries about results387.6 Prohibited qualifications and classification code38 OCR 2012 GCSE Computing
8. Other information about GCSE Computing398.1 Overlap with other qualifications398.2 Progression from this qualification398.3 Avoidance of bias398.4 Code of Practice/Common Criteria Requirements/Subject Criteria398.5 Language398.6 Spiritual, moral, ethical, social, legislative, economic and cultural issues398.7 Sustainable development, health and safety considerations and European developments, consistentwith international agreements408.8 Key Skills40Appendix A: Guidance for the production of electronic controlled assessment41Accepted File Formats42 OCR 2012 GCSE Computing3
11.Introduction to GCSE Computing1.1Overview of GCSE ComputingUnit A451Written paperComputer systems and programmingCandidates answer all questions.1 hour 30 minsQuestion paper that includes a mixture of short and longanswer questions, some of which will require candidates towrite program code.80 marks40% of the qualificationPlusUnit A452Controlled assessmentAn investigative taskPractical investigationCandidates carry out a practical investigation of a topicchosen from a set of options supplied by OCR.Approx 20 hours45 marks30% of the qualificationPlusUnit A453Controlled assessmentApprox 20 hours45 marks30% of the qualification4 OCR 2012 GCSE ComputingProgramming projectCandidates create solutions to computing tasks from a set ofoptions supplied by OCR.
11.2Guided learning hoursGCSE Computing requires 120–140 guided learning hours in total.1.3Aims and learning outcomesGCSE specifications in Computing should encourage candidates to be inspired, moved andchallenged by following a coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study. They should helpcandidates to gain an insight into related sectors. They should prepare candidates to make informeddecisions about further learning opportunities and career choices.GCSE specifications in Computing must enable candidates to: develop their understanding of current and emerging technologies, understanding of how theywork and apply this knowledge and understanding in a range of contexts acquire and apply a knowledge, some technical skills and an understanding of the use ofalgorithms in computer programs to solve problems using programming use their knowledge and understanding of computer technology to become independent anddiscerning users of IT, able to make informed decisions about the use and be aware of theimplications of different technologies acquire and apply creative and technical skills, knowledge and understanding of IT in a range ofcontexts develop computer programs to solve problems develop the skills to work collaboratively evaluate the effectiveness of computer programs/solutions and the impact of, and issues relatedto, the use of computer technology in society.1.4Prior learningCandidates entering this course should have achieved a general educational level equivalent toNational Curriculum Level 3, or an Entry 3 Entry Level within the National Qualifications Framework. OCR 2012 GCSE Computing5
22.Content of GCSE Computing2.1Unit A451: Computer systems and programmingThis unit covers the body of knowledge about computer systems on which the examination will bebased.2.1.1Fundamentals of computer systemsThis topic introduces computer systems and provides a foundation for the remaining topics in this unit.Candidates should develop a mental model of a computer system which comprises hardware andsoftware and in which: data is input and converted into the computer’s internal representation by input devices the data is processed the results of the processing are converted from the computer’s internal representation andoutput by an output device the data may be stored for later use or transmitted to another computer system, while it is still inthe computer’s internal representation.This model applies to the personal computer, but candidates should be aware of how it also applies toequipment which uses computer technology.Computer systemsCandidates should be able to:(a) define a computer system(b) describe the importance of computer systems in the modern world(c) explain the need for reliability in computer systems(d) explain the need for adherence to suitable professional standards in the development, use andmaintenance of computer systems(e) explain the importance of ethical, environmental and legal considerations when creatingcomputer systems.2.1.2Computing hardwareCandidates should be able to define the term hardware and have an understanding of:The Central Processing Unit (CPU)Candidates should be able to:(a) state the purpose of the CPU(b) describe the function of the CPU as fetching and executing instructions stored in memory(c) explain how common characteristics of CPUs such as clock speed, cache size and number ofcores affect their performance.6 OCR 2012 GCSE Computing
2Binary logicCandidates should be able to:(d) explain why data is represented in computer systems in binary form(e) understand and produce simple logic diagrams using the operations NOT, AND and OR(f)produce a truth table from a given logic diagram.MemoryCandidates should be able to:(g) describe the difference between RAM and ROM(h) explain the need for ROM in a computer system(i)describe the purpose of RAM in a computer system(j)explain how the amount of RAM in a personal computer affects the performance of thecomputer(k) explain the need for virtual memory(l)describe cache memory(m) describe flash memory(n) discuss how changes in memory technologies are leading to innovative computer designs.Input and output devicesCandidates should be able to:(o) understand the need for input and output devices(p) describe suitable input devices for a wide range of computer controlled situations(q) describe suitable output devices for a wide range of computer controlled situations(r)discuss input and output devices for users with specific needs.Secondary storageCandidates should be able to:(s) explain the need for secondary storage(t)describe common storage technologies such as optical, magnetic and solid state(u) select suitable storage devices and storage media for a given application and justify theirchoice using characteristics such as capacity, speed, portability, durability and reliability. OCR 2012 GCSE Computing7
22.1.3SoftwareCandidates should be able to define the term software and have an understanding of:SoftwareCandidates should be able to:(a) explain the need for the following functions of an operating system: user interface, memorymanagement, peripheral management, multi-tasking and security(b) describe the purpose and use of common utility programs for computer security (antivirus,spyware protection and firewalls), disk organisation (formatting, file transfer, anddefragmentation), and system maintenance (system information and diagnosis, systemcleanup tools, automatic updating)(c) discuss the relative merits of custom written, off the shelf, open source and proprietarysoftware.2.1.4Representation of data in computer systemsUnitsCandidates should be able to:(a) define the terms bit, nibble, byte, kilobyte, megabyte, gigabyte, terabyte(b) understand that data needs to be converted into a binary format to be processed by acomputer.NumberCandidates should be able to:(c) convert positive denary whole numbers (0-255) into 8-bit binary numbers and vice versa(d) add two 8-bit binary integers and explain overflow errors which may occur(e) convert positive denary whole numbers (0-255) into 2-digit hexadecimal numbers and viceversa(f)convert between binary and hexadecimal equivalents of the same number(g) explain the use of hexadecimal numbers to represent binary numbers.CharacterCandidates should be able to:(h) explain the use of binary codes to represent characters8(i)explain the term character set(j)describe with examples (for example ASCII and Unicode) the relationship between thenumber of bits per character in a character set and the number of characters which can berepresented. OCR 2012 GCSE Computing
2ImagesCandidates should be able to:(k) explain the representation of an image as a series of pixels represented in binary(l)explain the need for metadata to be included in the file such as height, width and colour depth(m) discuss the effect of colour depth and resolution on the size of an image file.SoundCandidates should be able to:(n) explain how sound can be sampled and stored in digital form(o) explain how sampling intervals and other considerations affect the size of a sound file andquality of its playback.InstructionsCandidates should be able to:(p) explain how instructions are coded as bit patterns(q) explain how the computer distinguishes between instructions and data.2.1.5DatabasesThe database conceptCandidates should be able to:(a) describe a database as a persistent organised store o
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