Introduction

The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is the world's most popular international qualification for 14 to 16 year olds. It develops successful students, giving them excellent preparation for their next steps in education, including progression to A and AS Level study, and equips them with skills for immediate employment. Cambridge IGCSE is recognised by universities and employers worldwide.

Grading System

Grading is on an eight-point scale (A* – G) and grades A to E are equivalent to O Level grades A to E.

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Recognition

IGCSE is a high profile qualification. It has exactly the same value in admitting students to institutes of further education and employment as the UK equivalent – GCSE.

  • IGCSE is comparable with GCE O Level and the UK GCSE
  • IGCSE has an excellent reputation amongst international schools worldwide
  • IGCSEs are recognised as a reliable record of attainment which counts towards entry to universities and colleges around the world

Computer Science (Subject Code: 0478)

Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science enables learners to develop an interest in computing and to gain confidence in computational thinking and programming.

Learners develop their understanding of the main principles of problem-solving using computers. They apply their understanding to develop computer-based solutions to problems using algorithms and a high-level programming language. They also develop a range of technical skills, as well as the ability to test effectively and to evaluate computing solutions.

This qualification will help learners appreciate current and emerging computing technologies and the benefits of their use. They learn to recognise the ethical issues and potential risks when using computers. Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science is an ideal foundation for further study in Computer Science.

Scheme of Assessment

All candidates will be entered for Paper 1 and 2.

Paper 1 (1 hour 45 minutes)

This paper is consisting of short-answer and structured questions set on Section 1 of the syllabus content. All questions are compulsory. Candidates will answer on the question paper.

Paper 2 (1 hours 45 minutes)

This paper is consisting of short-answer and structured questions set on Section 2 of the syllabus content. All questions are compulsory. Candidates will answer on the question paper.

Both papers will take place at FUTUREKIDS Computer Learning Center, by means of a CAIE-set assessments, under controlled examination conditions. The documentation and printouts produced in the assessment will be externally marked by CAIE.

Weighting of Papers

Paper Weight
1 50%
2 50%

Examinations Schedule

Examinations are held in June and November each year with results issued in August and February respectively.

Curriculum Content

The curriculum content is set out in eight interrelated sections. These sections should be read as an integrated whole and not as a progression. The sections are as follows:

Section 1 Computer System

  1. Data representation
  2. Data transmission
  3. Hardware
  4. Software
  5. The Internet & its uses
  6. Automated & emerging technologies

Section 2 Algorithms, programming & logic

  1. Algorithm design and problem-solving
  2. Programming
  3. Databases
  4. Boolean logic

For more detail, please visit the following link: CAIE IGCSE - Computer Science (0478)

Course Outline

Module Section(s) Covered Study Hours
Module 1: Fundamental Programming 7, 8 30 (20 Lessons)
Module 2: Programming & Databases 8, 9 30 (12 Lessons)
Module 3: Data Representation & Communication 1, 2, 3 18 (12 Lessons)
Module 4: Computer Architecture & Software 3, 5, 10 18 (12 Lessons)
Module 5: Internet Technologies & Security 5, 6 18 (12 Lessons)

Programming Language

Java or Python will be used when teaching programming concepts.

Prerequisite

Applicants should:

  • Students should pass a computer programming aptitude test. Please contact Futurekids for further details.

Schedule Detail

Please click on the following links for further detail about the schedule.