Computer Studies / Computing

Assessment

Computer Science is assessed in three parts: Paper 1: Practical Problem Solving and Programming This is examined by a 2 hour 30 minutes, on-screen exam of short answer questions and programming problems. All questions are compulsory. There is pre-release material including a skeleton program and the questions in the exam will relate to this material. The pre-release material gives students plenty of time to prepare for the exam. This contributes 40% on the marks of the A level. Paper 2: Theoretical Aspects This is examined by a 2 hour 30 minutes written paper. It covers more theoretical aspects such as Fundamentals of Computer Systems and Consequences of the Use of Computing. This contributes 40 % of the marks of the A level. Non Examined Assessment: Problem Solving, Programming, Operating Systems, Databases and Networking Students complete a practical project in computing using the knowledge and skills they gain on the course. The project is chosen by the student and not set by AQA. This could involve producing a system to meet an end user need, or alternatively investigating some aspect of computer science. This contributes 20 % of the marks of the A Level. There is no non-examined assessment at AS.