GCSE (9-1) Computer Science Programming Project update

This has been updated to amend the list of new resources originally published.

The Programming Project tasks are now available to download from the Assessment section of the qualification web pages. These are valid for the June 2019 and June 2020 series.

You may now complete the Programming Project in Year 10 or Year 11. This is a change from the previous arrangements.

We have updated the Programming Project guidance document – please make sure you read the latest version before undertaking the Programming Project.

New support and resources

We have produced the following new resources to help you deliver the Programming Project successfully:

• Content mapping grid – Available within Section 2f of the specification, this helps you to link the Programming Project into Component 01 and Component 02 theory.
• Programming Project Tracking sheet – To help you track the 20 hours of timetabled time.
• Programming Project Report template – For students to use and structure their report.
• Programming Project achievement award (Interchange access required) – This may be used internally to recognise students’ achievements when completing the Programming Project.
• Top 3 reasons why the Programming Project matters
  

Monitoring arrangements

As for the June 2018 series, you will receive a sample request at the beginning May 2019. This will need to include the following:

• The requested sample of students’ work
• Evidence of the planned 20 timetabled hours for delivering the Programming Project (see the Programming Project Tracking sheet)
• The authentication form (CCS161).

Monitors will be checking whether students have had the opportunity to spend 20 hours on their Programming Project. They will review the work to make sure it is the students’ own and they have appropriately referenced any source material. They will also check students have covered each part of the Programming Project as per 4d of the specification.

More information about the process is available from our web page.

The specification has been updated in the light of these arrangements. Please make sure you download and read the latest version (at the time of publication, version 4.0, August 2018).

We have also created a free webinar for you to download, which provides best practice in delivering the Programming Project. This is available from our CPD Hub.

If you have any queries about this notice, please email general.qualifications@ocr.org.uk or call 01223 553998.

Qualifications

• Computer Science (9-1) - J276 (from 2016)