GCSE (9-1) Computer Science J277 Specification

Overview

• Accredited by: OCR
• Version: 2.4 (September 2024)
• First Assessment: 2022
• Qualification Code: J277

Why Choose OCR GCSE (9-1) in Computer Science?

• Leading Exam Board: OCR is part of Cambridge Assessment Group, Europe's largest assessment agency.
• Developed with Consultation: Involves teachers, employers, and Higher Education to ensure relevance.
• Extensive Support:
  • Wide range of resources and textbooks.
  • Professional development for teachers.
  • Support tools like Active Results and ExamBuilder.

Aims and Learning Outcomes

• Understand and apply fundamental principles like abstraction, decomposition, logic, etc.
• Analyze problems computationally and design, write, and debug programs.
• Understand digital systems and their societal impact.
• Apply mathematical skills relevant to computer science.

Key Features

• Two-paper assessment model, equally weighted.
• Developed with teachers for ease of understanding and delivery.
• Designed for a seamless transition to AS/A Level Computer Science.

Specification Overview

• J277/01: Computer Systems

  • Systems architecture, memory, storage, networks, security, software, digital technology impacts.
  • Written paper: 1 hour 30 minutes, 50% of total GCSE.

• J277/02: Computational Thinking, Algorithms, and Programming

  • Algorithms, programming fundamentals, robust programs, Boolean logic, programming languages.
  • Written paper: 1 hour 30 minutes, 50% of total GCSE.

• Practical Programming

  • Mandatory practical programming tasks.
  • Requires application of content from both components.

Assessment

• Forms of Assessment:

  • Two compulsory written exams.
  • Component 1: Computer Systems, Component 2: Programming Skills.
  • No calculators allowed.

• Assessment Objectives (AOs)

  • AO1: Knowledge and understanding of key concepts.
  • AO2: Application of knowledge and understanding.
  • AO3: Computational problem analysis, design, programming, and evaluation.

• Total Qualification Time (TQT): 140 hours.

Administrative Information

• Pre-Assessment:
  • Estimated and final entries must be submitted by deadlines.
• Special Consideration: Adjustments for temporary injuries or conditions.
• External Assessment Arrangements: No calculators allowed.

Practical Programming Skills

• Schools must provide programming tasks using a high-level language.
• Assessed in Component 2, Section B.

Pathways for Computing

• Various qualifications available at KS4 to suit different student needs.
  • GCSE Computer Science
  • Cambridge Nationals in IT and Creative iMedia

Updates and Changes

• Continuous updates to meet educational standards and requirements.
• Recent changes include enhanced guidance and clarity.

Contact and Support

• Extensive resources and support available at OCR's website.
• Contact OCR for advice and support via email or phone.