Module

Skill Area

Focus Areas

1. Data representation

Understanding how data is stored

Represent data using binary and hexadecimal; represent text, images and sound; understand data compression.

2. Data transmission

Communication of data

Describe methods of data transmission; understand transmission speed, errors and security.

3. Hardware

Computer components

Identify and describe input, output and storage devices; understand processor components and system architecture.

4. Software

Types and roles of software

Understand system software and application software; describe operating system functions; software development stages.

5. The internet and its uses

Networked systems

Describe how the internet works; understand web technologies, digital communication and internet services.

6. Automated and emerging technologies

Impact of technology

Understand automation; describe emerging technologies and their effects on society.

7. Algorithm design and problem-solving

Computational thinking

Design algorithms using pseudocode and flowcharts; decompose problems; evaluate algorithm efficiency.

8. Programming

Writing and testing programs

Use programming constructs; write, test and debug programs using a high-level language.

9. Databases

Data organisation

Design simple databases; use data types; create queries to retrieve and manipulate data.

10. Boolean logic

Logical reasoning

Use Boolean operators; construct and interpret logic diagrams; apply logic to decision-making.

Item

Paper 1

Paper 2

Paper title

Computer Systems

Algorithms, Programming & Logic

Duration

1 hour 45 minutes

1 hour 45 minutes

Marks

75

75

Weighting

50%

50%

Skills assessed

Knowledge and understanding of topics 1–6; application and analysis of system concepts.

Problem-solving, algorithm design, programming logic and evaluation from topics 7–10.