A Level Computer Science WJEC
Full course content, a smart revision plan and instant past paper feedback for A Level Computer Science WJEC.
Content Overview
66 topics in 17 modules
βοΈ Hardware and Communication 8 topics
- Hardware and Communication
- Architecture
- Fetch-Execute Cycle
- Input / Output
- Secondary Storage
- Data Storage on Disc
- Networking
- Internet
βοΈ Logical Operations 1 topic
- Logical Operations
βοΈ Data Transmission 2 topics
- Data Transmission
- Communication Networks
βοΈ Data Representation and Data Types 4 topics
- Representation of Data as Bit Patterns
- Storage of Characters
- Data Types
- Representation of Numbers as Bit Patterns
βοΈ Data Structures 1 topic
- Data Structures
βοΈ Organisation of Data 4 topics
- Organisation of Data
- File Design
- File Organisation
- Data Validation and Verification
βοΈ Database Systems 1 topic
- Database Systems
βοΈ The Operating System 6 topics
- Managing Resources
- Providing an Interface
- Managing Backing Store
- Utility Software
- Modes of Operation
- Consideration of Human-Computer Interaction
βοΈ Algorithms and Programs 14 topics
- Algorithms and Programs
- Variables and Constants
- Identifiers
- Scope of Variables
- Parameters
- Mathematical Operations
- Sorting
- Searching
- Problem Analysis
- Programming Constructs
- Modular Programming
- Logical Operations in Algorithms and Programs
- Compression
- Testing
βοΈ Principles of Programming 3 topics
- Principles of Programming
- Levels of Computer Language
- Types of Computer Language
βοΈ Systems Analysis 8 topics
- Feasibility
- Investigation and Analysis
- Design
- Changeover
- Program Testing
- Maintenance
- Backup and Recovery
- Documentation
βοΈ Software Engineering 1 topic
- Software Tools
βοΈ Program Construction 1 topic
- Compilers, Interpreters and Assemblers
βοΈ Different Types of Software Systems 3 topics
- Types of Software
- Industrial, Technical and Scientific Software
- Expert Systems
βοΈ Practical Programming 3 topics
- Designing Programs
- Develop Programs
- Evaluate Programs
βοΈ Data Security and Integrity Processes 3 topics
- Privacy and Security
- Disaster Planning
- Malicious and Accidental Damage
βοΈ Economic, Moral, Legal, Ethical and Cultural Issues 3 topics
- Economic, Moral, Legal, Ethical and Cultural Issues
- Effect on Employment
- Legislation
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A Level Computer Science WJEC Revision Content
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A Level Computer Science WJEC - Hardware and Communication - Hardware and Communication Content Preview
Hardware and Communication
Hardware and Communication
Hardware
- Processors: Central Processing Units (CPUs) are essential for executing program instructions. They perform arithmetic, logical, control and input/output operations within a computer system.
- Main Memory: RAM (Random Access Memory) is vital for temporarily holding data and program instructions that the CPU uses frequently. ROM (Read Only Memory) is the non-volatile part of the main memory which retains data when power is switched off.
- Secondary Memory: This includes hard disks, optical disks and solid state drives. They provide long-term storage of files and programs.
- Input/Output Devices: These peripherals (e.g. keyboards, mice, monitors, printers) send and receive data to and from the computer system.
- Buses: Connect all components in a computer system allowing data to be transmitted.
- Understand the Von Neumann architecture. It's a computer design model where the storage and the processor share the same memory space.
- Also comprehend the Fetch-Decode-Execute cycle that underpins how any computer works.
Communication
- Understand network topologies like Star, Bus, Ring and Mesh. They're important for knowing how devices are connected in a network.
- Know the different types of networks: Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), Metropolitan Area Network (MAN), and Personal Area Network (PAN).
- Learn about network protocols (e.g. HTTP, FTP, TCP/IP, SMTP, POP3, IMAP). They govern how data is transferred across a network.
- Identify the difference between routable and non-routable protocols.
- Be familiar with the Client-Server model where servers provide resources and services to clients.
- Get to know about Peer-to-Peer networking which allows resources sharing among network devices without the need of a central server.
- Understand the concept of Virtual Networks and their benefits: e.g. VPNs that provide privacy and greater security online.
- Grasp how cloud computing provides on-demand network access to shared computing resources.
- Have a clear concept of hardware and software firewalls, which are instrumental for network security.
Question: How does the concept of Von Neumann architecture influence the operation of a computer system and its various components like CPU and memory?
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