IB Computer Science
There are no formal prerequisites for students undertaking the Computer Science course.
Aim
Computer science requires an understanding of the fundamental concepts of computational thinking as well as knowledge of how computers and other digital devices operate.
It has the following characteristics.
• raises ethical issues
• is underpinned by computational thinking.
• draws on a wide spectrum of knowledge
• enables and empowers innovation, exploration and the acquisition of further knowledge
• interacts with and influences cultures, society and how individuals and societies behave
Computational thinking involves the ability to:
• think procedurally, logically, concurrently, abstractly, recursively and think ahead
• utilize an experimental and inquiry-based approach to problem-solving
• develop algorithms and express them clearly
• appreciate how theoretical and practical limitations affect the extent to which problems can be solved computationally.
Syllabus Component | Description |
Core | • Topic 1: System fundamentals • Topic 2: Computer organization • Topic 3: Networks • Topic 4: Computational thinking, problem-solving and programming HL extension • Topic 5: Abstract data structures • Topic 6: Resource management • Topic 7: Control Case study Additional subject content introduced by the annually issued case study |
Option | Students study one of the following options:
Option A: Databases Option B: Modelling and simulation Option C: Web science Option D: Object-oriented programming (OOP) |
Internal Assessment | Solution Practical application of skills through the development of a product and associated documentation Group 4 project |
Standard Level: Internal Assessment: (30%)
Solution
External Assessment: (70%) Examinations at the end of the second year. Paper 1 (1 hour 30 mins) (45%) Paper 2 (1 hour) (25%) | Higher Level: Internal Assessment: (20%)
Individual Investigation
External Assessment: (80%) Examinations at the end of the second year. Paper 1 (2 hours 10 mins) (40%) Paper 2 (1 hour 20 mins) (20%) Paper 3 (1 hour) (20%) |