This qualification provides students with the opportunity of operating confidently in today’s
digital world. It is a useful, practical qualification which will provide skills needed in further
education and work.

You will learn about topics such as:

Topic 1: Problem solving including algorithms

Topic 2: Programming in Python

Topic 3: Data types, representation and storage

Topic 4: Computer hardware and logic

Topic 5: Communication, networks and the internet

Topic 6: Emerging trends, issues and impact

• You will gain extensive skills in programming and algorithm development
• You will understand the operation of computer hardware at a fundamental level
• You will be able to use a variety of data types
• Provide a solid base for study at higher education level.

This course is divided into the following:

Students study all of the following topics:

• Topic 1: Problem solving
• Topic 2: Programming
• Topic 3: Data
• Topic 4: Computers
• Topic 5: Communication and the internet
• Topic 6: The bigger picture

The IGCSE Computer Science qualification is achieved by successfully completing two externally assessed exam papers, administered by Pearson Edexcel, typically in June. This guide provides an overview of the assessment structure, content, and preparation methods to help you excel.

Assessment Overview

The qualification consists of two papers, each contributing 50% to the total International GCSE grade:

Paper 1: Principles of Computer Science (Paper code: 4CP0/01)

Paper 2: Application of Computational Thinking (Paper code: 4CP0/02)

Both papers are mandatory, externally assessed, and marked by Pearson. Your course will include details of local examination centres, where you’ll complete these assessments, along with practice papers to ensure thorough preparation. Contact your local examination centre for coursework requirements.

Additional Assessments

To support your learning, the course includes:

Tutor-Marked Assessments (TMAs): These assignments are reviewed by your tutor, who provides feedback to guide you through challenging areas and ensure a deep understanding of the material.

Self-Assessments: These are informal checks within the course to gauge your progress. They are for your personal use and do not need to be submitted to your tutor.

Paper 1: Principles of Computer Science

Weighting: 50% of the International GCSE

Availability: June

Duration: 2 hours

Total Marks: 80

Format: Multiple-choice, short open-response, open-response, and extended open-response questions

Assessment Type: Written examination, set and marked by Pearson

Content Summary

This paper tests your knowledge and understanding of fundamental computer science principles and their application to problem-solving. Topics include:

Algorithms: Understanding what algorithms are, their purpose, and how they work; interpreting, amending, and creating algorithms.

Programming: Writing program code, including constructs, data types, structures, input/output, operators, and subprograms.

Data Representation: Binary representation, data storage, compression, and encryption.

Computer Systems: Components of computer systems, constructing truth tables, producing logic statements, and interpreting pseudocode.

Networks and the Internet: Computer networks, the internet, and the World Wide Web.

Emerging Trends and Impacts: Awareness of computing trends and their ethical, legal, societal, and environmental implications.

Key Notes

All questions are mandatory.

Focuses on theoretical understanding with some applied problem-solving.

Paper 2: Application of Computational Thinking

Weighting: 50% of the International GCSE

Availability: June

Duration: 3 hours

Total Marks: 80

Format: Multiple-choice, short open-response, open-response, extended open-response, and task-based questions

Assessment Type: Practical examination, set and marked by Pearson

Content Summary

This paper emphasizes practical application of computational thinking, focusing on creating and adapting algorithms to solve problems. It also tests theoretical knowledge. Topics include:

Algorithms: Interpreting, amending, and creating algorithms for problem-solving.

Programming: Developing and testing program code, including constructs, data types, structures, input/output, operators, and subprograms; connecting and using data sources.

Data Representation: Binary representation, data storage, compression, and encryption.

Logic and Pseudocode: Constructing truth tables, producing logic statements, and interpreting pseudocode.

Key Notes

Programming Languages: Choose from Python, C#, or Java for task-based questions.

Practical Component: Task-based questions are completed on a computer under supervision. Other questions require written responses in the exam paper.

Resources: A pseudocode reference document is provided during the assessment.

All questions are mandatory.

Preparation Tips

Practice Papers: Use provided practice papers to familiarize yourself with question formats and time management.

TMAs and Self-Assessments: Engage with TMAs for tutor feedback and self-assessments to monitor your progress.

Examination Centres: Early contact with your local centre ensures smooth coordination for exams and coursework.

Programming Practice: Regularly code in your chosen language (Python, C#, or Java) to build confidence for Paper 2’s practical tasks.

Theory Revision: Review key concepts like algorithms, data representation, and security for Paper 1’s theoretical focus.

Online

The course is primarily an online course using a Learning Management System (LMS).

The online course has many features that cannot be printed such as embedded videos, forums and interactive tests.

The course includes Tutor Marked Assessments which you access and submit through the online system.