IGCSE Computer Science
Aims
The IGCSE in Computer Science qualification enables students to:
- Understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation.
- Analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems, including designing, writing and debugging programs.
- Think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically.
- Understand the components that make up digital systems, and how they communicate with one another and with other systems.
- Understand the impacts of digital technology to the individual and to wider society.
- Apply mathematical skills relevant to computer science.
Content Summary
- Problem solving
- Programming
- Data
- Computers
- Communication and the internet
- The bigger picture
How is it assessed?
The IGCSE in Biology is assessed by two external papers, one of which is a practical assessment carried out on a computer system using a programing language of choice. Both papers are 50% of the total mark
Paper 1: Principles of Computer Science – A 2 hour written exam with a mix of multiple-choice, short open-response, open-response and extended open-response answer questions.
Paper 2: Application of Computational Thinking – A 3 hour practical exam with a choice of using one of three programming languages available – Python, C# and Java.
Exam Information
The IGCSE Computer Science external exams only take place in May/June of the academic year.
All exams will be supervised and taken at an examination centre local to you. Parents/guardians need to ensure that the exam centre they choose as the capabilities to administer a Computer Science practical exam.
Palm Global Academy can assist all students/parents in locating an exam centre near to you. Please see the External Exams Policy for more details.