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EnglandComputer Science

Programming

7 dot points across 7 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

What are the main data types, and how do the arithmetic, relational and logical operators work?

Variables and constants, the common data types (integer, real, Boolean, character, string), and the arithmetic, relational and logical operators used in programs.
An Eduqas GCSE Computer Science answer on variables and constants, the common data types (integer, real, Boolean, character, string), and the arithmetic, relational and logical operators, including integer division and modulus.
10 min answer →

What is an array, and how do you store and process many values with one?

Arrays as a data structure: declaring and using one-dimensional arrays, accessing elements by index, and iterating through an array with a loop, with awareness of two-dimensional arrays.
An Eduqas GCSE Computer Science answer on arrays as a data structure: declaring and using one-dimensional arrays, accessing elements by index, iterating through an array with a loop, and awareness of two-dimensional arrays.
10 min answer →

What is the difference between high-level and low-level languages, and what does each kind of translator do?

High-level and low-level languages, machine code and assembly language, the three translators (compiler, interpreter and assembler), and the features of an integrated development environment (IDE).
An Eduqas GCSE Computer Science answer on high-level versus low-level languages, machine code and assembly, the three translators (compiler, interpreter, assembler) with their differences, and the features of an integrated development environment.
11 min answer →

What does an operating system do, and what is utility software for?

The purpose and functions of an operating system (memory management, multitasking, peripheral management, the user interface, and security and user management) and the role of common utility software.
An Eduqas GCSE Computer Science answer on the purpose and functions of an operating system (memory management, multitasking, peripheral management, the user interface, security and user management) and the role of common utility software.
10 min answer →

What are the three programming constructs, and how do you use selection and the two kinds of iteration?

The three programming constructs: sequence, selection (if and nested if) and iteration (count-controlled and condition-controlled loops), and when to use each.
An Eduqas GCSE Computer Science answer on the three programming constructs: sequence, selection (if, else, nested if) and iteration (count-controlled for loops and condition-controlled while loops), with worked pseudocode for each.
11 min answer →

How do you work with text in a program, and how do you validate input in the on-screen exam?

String handling (length, indexing, substrings, concatenation, case conversion), input validation (presence, range, length, type and format checks), and how programs are written and tested in the Component 2 on-screen exam.
An Eduqas GCSE Computer Science answer on string handling (length, indexing, substrings, concatenation, case conversion), input validation (presence, range, length, type, format), and how programs are written, tested and refined in the Component 2 on-screen exam.
11 min answer →

What is a subprogram, and what is the difference between a procedure and a function?

Subprograms (procedures and functions), the difference between them, parameters and arguments, local and global variables, and why subprograms make programs easier to write and maintain.
An Eduqas GCSE Computer Science answer on subprograms: the difference between a procedure and a function, parameters and arguments, local and global variables, and why subprograms support decomposition, reuse and easier maintenance.
10 min answer →