Ace Cambridge AS Level Computer Science: Syllabus Insights & Tips

Introduction

In this guide, we'll dive into the essentials of the Cambridge International AS Level Computer Science (9618) syllabus, including where to find it, an overview of the examination routes, what the AS Level covers, the topics explored in Papers 1 and 2, and some top recommendations to ace the course.

Video Walkthrough

If you're more of a visual learner, feel free to watch the video walkthrough instead 👇

Source of Syllabus

The full syllabus for the Cambridge International AS Level Computer Science is readily available for download here or from our website here. Choose the syllabus version that aligns with your examination year. Rest assured, the differences between recent years' syllabi are minor.

Route Overview

Cambridge AS Level Computer Science offers three distinct examination routes to suit different study preferences:

• AS Route: Tackle Papers 1 and 2 in one exam series, securing your AS grade.

• AS + A Level Route: Split your effort across two years—start with Papers 1 and 2 for half your A Level in the first year, then complete Papers 3 and 4 in the second year.

• A Level Route: The most demanding option, where you sit for all four papers in a single exam series to cover the entire A Level.

I generally recommend choosing the AS Route if you're curious about A Level Computer Science but not yet committed. It’s a great way to get a feel for the subject. On the other hand, if Computer Science is a potential major for you in university, the AS + A Level Route offers a more comprehensive foundation, aligning well with university application requirements.

AS Level Overview

As mentioned before, AS route will only contain Paper 1 and Paper 2. The breakdown of both papers are shown below:

Paper 1 Theory Fundamentals

• 1 hour 30 minutes

• Assess sections 1 to 8 of the syllabus

• Written paper

• 50% of AS Level or 25% of A Level

• Topics include information representation, communication, hardware, processor fundamentals, system software, security, privacy, data integrity, ethics, and databases.

Paper 2 Fundamental Problem-solving and Programming Skills

• 2 hours

• Assess sections 9 to 12 of the syllabus

• Written paper, candidate will need to write answer in pseudocode

• 50% of AS Level or 25% of A Level

• Topics include algorithm design and problem solving, data types and structures, programming, and software development

Paper 2 poses a significant challenge with its emphasis on pseudocode. Many students initially find these questions demanding. To illustrate, an example from the May/June 2021 series showcases a typical problem-solving scenario that tests students' ability to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical context, underscoring the importance of mastering pseudocode for success in this paper.

Sample Question:

1. A procedure Preview() will:

• take the name of a text file as a parameter

• output a warning message if the file is empty

• otherwise output the first five lines from the file (or as many lines as there are in the file if this number is less than five)

Write pseudocode for the procedure Preview().

Sample Solution:

PROCEDURE Preview (ThisFile : STRING)
	DECLARE LineNum : INTEGER
	DECLARE ThisLine : STRING

	OPENFILE ThisFile FOR READ
	IF EOF(ThisFile) THEN
		OUTPUT “Warning Message”	
	ELSE
		LineNum ← 1
		WHILE LineNum < 6 AND NOT EOF(ThisFile)
			READFILE Thisfile, ThisLine
			OUTPUT ThisLine
			LineNum ← LineNum + 1
		ENDWHILE
	ENDIF
	CLOSEFILE ThisFile
ENDPROCEDURE

Initially, the pseudocode questions in Paper 2 might seem daunting. However, as you delve into chapters 9 to 12, the concepts become clearer and more approachable. This progression is designed to build your understanding and confidence, making these challenges not only manageable but an integral part of mastering computer science fundamentals.

Recommendations

If you're reading this, you're likely considering or currently enrolled in AS Level Computer Science. This subject is fascinating, offering a broad spectrum of knowledge in the field. It's an excellent stepping stone, allowing you to gauge your interest before committing to the full A Level course, and possibly a computer science degree, given the high demand for graduates. Typically, students spend two years completing these levels, but our Fast Track Program can prepare you in as little as three months, making it a swift path to readiness for your exams.