CAIE IGCSE CS

The CAIE IGCSE Computer Science (Cambridge Assessment International Education International General Certificate of Secondary Education in Computer Science) is an internationally recognized qualification for students aged 14 to 16. It provides a comprehensive introduction to both theoretical and practical aspects of computer science.

Key Areas of Study

1. Theory of Computer Science:
   • Data Representation: Binary systems, hexadecimal, data types
   • Communication and Internet Technologies: Networking, protocols, internet architecture
   • Hardware and Software: Components of a computer system, types of software
   • Security: Encryption, data integrity, cyber threats
   • Ethics and Privacy: Ethical issues in computing, data privacy concerns
2. Practical Problem-solving and Programming:
   • Algorithm Design and Problem-solving: Creating algorithms to solve problems
   • Programming Concepts: Variables, control structures, data structures
   • Database Concepts: Basics of databases, SQL
   • Software Development Lifecycle: Stages of developing software

Assessment

The assessment consists of two main components:

1. Paper 1: Theory (60% of the final grade)
   • Written examination
   • Tests theoretical knowledge of computer science
2. Paper 2: Problem-solving and Programming (40% of the final grade)
   • Written examination
   • Assesses practical skills in problem-solving and programming

Skills Developed

• Analytical Thinking: Breaking down complex problems and designing solutions
• Programming Skills: Writing and debugging programs in languages like Python or Java
• Understanding of Computer Systems: How hardware and software work together
• Awareness of Technology: Keeping up with current and emerging technologies

Resources for Preparation

• Textbooks and Study Guides: Comprehensive materials covering all syllabus topics
• Online Learning Platforms: Websites offering tutorials, exercises, and past exam papers
• Programming Tools: Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) like PyCharm, Visual Studio Code

Preparation Tips

• Understand the Syllabus: Make sure to study all topics outlined in the syllabus
• Practice Regularly: Write and debug programs frequently to improve your skills
• Use Past Papers: Familiarize yourself with the exam format and practice with previous exams
• Join Study Groups: Collaborate with peers to discuss and solve problems

CAMBRIDGE IGCSE COMPUTER SCIENCE (0478 & 2210)

Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science helps learners develop an interest in computational thinking and an understanding of the principles of problem-solving using computers. They apply this understanding to create computer-based solutions to problems using algorithms and a high-level programming language. Learners also develop a range of technical skills, and the ability to effectively test and evaluate computing solutions.

Studying Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science helps learners appreciate current and emerging computing technologies, the benefits of their use and recognise their potential risks. It provides an ideal foundation for progression to Cambridge International AS & A Level and is valuable for other areas of study and everyday life.

***UNDERSTANDING COMMAND WORDS***

Command words tell you how to answer a specific exam question or complete an assessment task. Below we list the command words you will see in new and revised syllabuses published from 2019 onwards. The command words published in the syllabus will be in exam and assessment materials from 2022 onwards.

The definitions will help you understand what the words are asking you to do. Any subject-specific command words will also be listed in the syllabus. The list does not include simple instruction words like write, circle or find.

• Analyse examine in detail to show meaning, and identify elements and the relationship between them
• Assess make an informed judgement
• Calculate work out from given facts, figures or information
• Comment give an informed opinion
• Compare identify/comment on similarities and/or differences
• Consider review and respond to given information
• Contrast identify/comment on differences
• Define give a precise meaning
• Describe state the points of a topic / give characteristics and main features
• Develop take forward to a more advanced stage or build upon given information
• Discuss write about issue(s) or topic(s) in depth in a structured way
• Evaluate judge or calculate the quality, importance, amount or value of something
• Explain set out purposes or reasons / make the relationships between things clear / say why and/or how and support with relevant evidence
• Give produce an answer from a given source or recall/memory
• Identify name/select/recognise
• Justify support a case with evidence/argument
• Outline set out the main points
• Predict suggest what may happen based on available information
• Sketch make a simple freehand drawing showing the key features, taking care over proportions
• State express in clear terms

Suggest apply knowledge and understanding to situations where there are a range of valid responses to make proposals/put forward considerations

Summarise choose and present the main points, without detail

***SYLLABUS UPDATES***

SUMMARY OF THE CHANGES

We revise our qualifications regularly to make sure that they continue to meet the needs of learners, schools and higher education institutions around the world and reflect current thinking.  Please see the 2023-2025 syllabus document for full details on the changes.

What are the main changes to the syllabus?

To support teachers and learners, we have:

• updated the learning objectives to demonstrate the depth you should teach each topic. The wording looks different in many places, but the teaching content remains largely the same
• updated the topic structure to make sure topics and sub-topics are clearly linked
• removed and added topics; making sure that the teaching time is still within the guided learning hours.

What are the main changes to the assessment?

• There will no longer be any pre-release material and the overall component weightings have changed.
• In Paper 1 (now called ‘Computer Systems’), we have made changes to the assessment objectives weightings and moved ‘Logic gates’ to Paper 2.
• In Paper 2 (now called ‘Algorithms, Programming and Logic’), we have made changes to the assessment objectives weightings and added a new scenario-based question.

When do these changes take place?

The updated syllabus is for examination from June 2023 onwards. Examinations are available in March 2023 for India only. Please see the 2023-2025 syllabus for full details.