Computer Science
Year 9 · Curriculum for Wales
Year 9 computing is effectively the start of GCSE Computer Science for most Welsh pupils. Programming covers arrays, nested loops, subprograms, file handling and standard algorithms such as linear and binary search and bubble and merge sort.
Theory covers logic gates and truth tables, two's complement, floating point, CPU architecture and performance factors, memory hierarchy, network topologies and protocols, and cyber security threats and defences.
The WJEC GCSE assesses both written theory and practical programming, so pupils benefit from building genuine coding fluency alongside exam technique this year.
Curriculum Breakdown
Important Topics
- Standard AlgorithmsLinear and binary search, bubble and merge sort, and their relative efficiency.
- Programming TechniquesArrays, nested loops, subprograms with parameters and file handling.
- Logic & Data RepresentationLogic gates, truth tables, two's complement and floating point.
- CPU & MemoryArchitecture, the fetch-execute cycle, cache and factors affecting performance.
- Networks & ProtocolsTopologies, the TCP/IP stack, and how data is routed and packaged.
- Cyber SecurityThreats, vulnerabilities, encryption and defensive measures.
- Ethical & Legal IssuesData protection, computer misuse, and the impact of technology on society.
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