COMPUTER SCIENCE
NATURE OF THE SUBJECT
Problem solving
Computer science involves solving problems using computers. Therefore a full understanding of logical problem solving is required as well as a detailed knowledge of how computers operate. Successful computerized systems are a result of: a clear understanding of the problem to be solved; appropriate use of hardware based on a detailed knowledge of its capabilities and limitations; efficient use of algorithms and data structures; thorough and logical design; careful testing and integration of all these components. Students of the IB Diploma Programme computer science course will be guided by problem-solving strategies that will be continually reinforced in their coursework. Initial stages of the process will involve identifying and defining the problem(s) to be solved using a computerized system. The problem will be broken down (decomposed) into parts, with each part requiring a particular solution. From this problem definition, the student will construct appropriate algorithms to create a solution. The emphasis should be on the use of a logical approach and analytical thinking while using a computer to solve problems.
Java
Students are expected to acquire mastery of the specified aspects of the Java programming language. Suitable mechanisms include encapsulation, polymorphism and inheritance, although other structured approaches are possible. Mastery of a particular aspect (or mechanism) of computer science is defined as the ability to use that aspect appropriately for some non-trivial purpose that is well documented. Mastery will be demonstrated through work submitted in the program dossier.
The SL and HL courses
The computer science standard level (SL) course focuses on software development, fundamentals of computer systems and the relationship between computing systems and society. The higher level (HL) course encompasses all these elements but is extended to include: computer mathematics and logic; advanced data structures and algorithms; further system fundamentals; and file organization.
CURRICULUM MODEL
Both standard level (SL) and higher level (HL) students must study a common core (CC) of material and must demonstrate problem-solving skills and mastery of various aspects of computer science by completing a program dossier (PD). In addition, HL students must study additional higher level material (AHL) that fulfills two functions: it extends some topics in the CC, to give greater depth, and at the same time, introduces new topics to provide greater breadth. The existence of a common core will allow teachers to teach SL and HL students together (where necessary), for at least part of the time.
The teaching model for IB Computer Science is outlined below:
|
Common Core (CC) |
(All students will be taught this section |
|
Additional HL Material (AHL) |
(only HL students will be taught this section |
|
Program Dossier (PD) |
(All students to complete) |
Teaching time
The teaching time that should be allocated to this model is in accordance with the DiplomaProgramme requirement of 150 hours for SL courses and 240 hours for HL courses. The distribution is as follows:
|
Part of model |
Target |
Class time |
|
Common core |
all students |
125 hours |
|
Additional HL material |
HL students only |
80 hours |
|
Program dossier |
SL students HL students |
25 hours 35 hours |
The hours stated do not include time out of class for access to a computer (with the appropriate compiler and editor) required for the development of programs related to the syllabus and in connection with the program dossier.
ASSESSMENT OUTLINE
|
Standard Level: |
Paper 1 Exam |
32.5% |
Paper 2 Exam |
32.5% |
Dossier |
35% |
|
Higher Level: |
Paper 1 Exam |
32.5% |
Paper 2 Exam |
32.5% |
Dossier |
35% |