1.

What you need to know before you choose Computer Science (CS) or ICDL subject which are taught
in Year 9, 10 & 11.

Computer Science is a STEM discipline syllabus GCE O level 2210 Updated from 7010 Computer Studies.
Computer Science is a quintessential STEM discipline, sharing attributes with Engineering,
Mathematics, Science, and Technology:
It has its own theoretical foundations and mathematical underpinnings, and involves the application of logic and
reasoning.
It embraces a scientific approach to measurement and experiment.
It involves the design, construction, and testing of purposeful artefacts.
It requires understanding, appreciation, and application of a wide range of
Technologies.

The International Computer Driving License, or ICDL for short, is an internationally-recognised qualification that provides
practical training in each of the most commonly used software tools. The certificate is recognised in more than 100
countries.

Students complete a Start Certificate and then have the option of continuing with a Full Certificate. Over the duration of
the course students complete seven courses (four to complete the Start Certificate, and a further three to complete the
Full Certificate), all of which are aimed at providing essential computing skills as required in the modern workplace.

Internet In this module students learn WWW essentials such as conducting Web search tasks by means of a
browser application and search engines, bookmarking search results, printing Web pages and generating search
reports. Students are also taught how to use e-mail software to send and receive messages, to attach documents
or files to a message and to organise and manage message folders or directories within e-mail software.
Microsoft Access Students are taught the basic concepts of this database program, and learn how to use a
database on a personal computer. Designing and planning a simple database, retrieving information from an
existing database and creating and modifying reports form part of this module.
Microsoft Word Students are taught how to use this word-processing application on a personal computer. In
addition to basic operations such as creating, formatting and finishing a Word document ready for distribution,
this module also includes more advanced aspects such as creating standard tables, using images within a
document, importing objects and using mail merge tools.
Microsoft Excel Students are taught the basic concepts that apply to this and other spreadsheet programs, and
learn to accomplish basic operations related to developing, formatting and using spreadsheets. Basic formulas
and functions, importing objects and creating graphs and charts also form part of this module.
Microsoft PowerPoint - Students gain competence in using this presentation tool. The module includes
instruction on creating a variety of presentations for different target audiences and using various slide-show
effects.
Managing Files - Students learn how to operate effectively within the desktop environment. This includes
managing, organising, copying, moving and deleting files and directories/folders. The ability to use a variety of
features available within the operating system also forms part of this module.
Basic Concepts of Information Technology Students gain an understanding of the basic physical make-up of a personal
computer and are introduced to Information Technology (IT) essentials.

2. Career Advancements and Job Opportunities

The Cambridge O Level Computer Science syllabus enables learners to develop an interest in computing and gain
confidence in computational thinking and programming. Cambridge O Level Computer Science is an ideal foundation for
further study at Cambridge International A Level, and the skills learnt can also be used in other areas of study and in
everyday life. Cambridge O Level Certificates are general qualifications that enable candidates either to progress directly
to employment, or to proceed to further qualifications. Candidates who are awarded grades A* to C in Cambridge O Level
Computer Science are well prepared to follow courses leading to Cambridge International AS and A Level Computer
Science, or the equivalent.

By completing the ICDL you will gain a very good understanding of what the world of IT entails you get an introduction
to the digital world and a very useful qualification at the same time. In the case of some tertiary IT courses an ICDL is an
entrance requirement, and many universities and universities of technology recognise ICDL certification for academic
credit purposes.

Note: Computer Science is an optional subject to Accounting for Science Class. ICDL is an optional subject for Arts Class.