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Nil | Essential AS and A-Level Computer Science 9618 Resources: A Beginner’s Guide

Are you an AS or A-Level student taking on Computer Science 9618 with little to no previous experience? Whether you’re grappling with programming, pseudocode, or understanding core concepts, this guide is here to help! We’ve gathered the best resources tailored for beginners, focusing on key topics like algorithms, programming languages, and pseudocode. These study materials and exercises are specifically designed to support your learning journey and help you gain the confidence needed to excel in your AS and A-Level Computer Science course.

Class 1 (15 Sept 2024)

a) Class Summary:

- n/a

b) Video (Saturday):

- According to Scholege procedures

d) Files:

e) Class Code:

- n/a

f) Exercises:

- Convert Denary to Binary and Binary to Denary

g) HomeWork Solutions Posting (FB) :

- n/a

Class 2 (21 Sept 2024)

a) Class Summary:

Key Computer Science Concepts: The class covered binary numbers, bit systems, overflow errors, unit conversions, and system representations, emphasizing computational thinking, problem-solving, and algorithm design.
Binary Systems and Calculations: Ahmed explained binary number representation, addition, overflow errors, and the concept of bit systems, detailing how modern computers use 32-bit or 64-bit systems.
Pseudocode and Programming Practice: The next steps include Nil learning pseudocode and flowcharts from her father and starting Python programming with his guidance, while Ahmed provides support and monitors her progress.
Task Decomposition and Problem-Solving: The discussion highlighted the importance of task decomposition, abstraction, and pattern recognition in breaking down complex problems into manageable parts.
Homework Revision: Nil's homework assignments were reviewed. Nil confirmed that the teaching method suits her learning style.

b) Video (Saturday):

- According to Scholege procedures

d) Files:

- Ch 1.1 Data Representation - Convert Denary to Binary and Binary Addition

- Ch 9.1 Computational Thinking (45) - Abstraction, Decomposition, and Composition

e) Class Code:

- n/a

f) Exercises:

- Binary Addition & Computational Thinking Homework Exercises - Ideal Answers

g) HomeWork Solutions Posting (FB) :

- n/a

Class 3 (28 Sept 2024)

a) Class Summary:

Abstraction, Algorithms, and Pseudocode: Students learned how to apply abstraction in real-world scenarios like flight booking, explored algorithms using flowcharts, and understood the role of pseudocode for simplifying programming logic. Pseudocode was presented as a tool to design algorithms without needing specific programming languages.
Pattern Recognition and Decomposition: The class emphasized recognizing patterns and decomposing problems in programming. These concepts were linked to software development, where similar tasks can be reused across different applications, making programming more efficient and manageable.
Binary and Bitwise Operations: Students were introduced to binary shifts, where shifting bits left or right corresponds to multiplying or dividing by 2. Bitwise operations like AND, OR, and XOR were discussed, along with their applications in programming tasks such as bit masking and representing negative numbers in binary.
Parallel and Concurrent Processing: The class covered parallel and concurrent processing, explaining how tasks are managed in multi-processor systems to enhance speed and efficiency. The differences between parallel processing (multiple tasks at once) and concurrent processing (one processor handling multiple tasks in sequence) were highlighted.

b) Video (Saturday):

- According to Scholege procedures

d) Files:

- Ch 1.1 Data Representation - Binary Shifts, Bitwise Operations, & Two's Complement

- Ch 9.1 Computational Thinking (45) - Computational Thinking (Completed)

e) Class Code:

- n/a

f) Exercises:

- Ch 9 - Abstraction & Structure Chart: Homework Exercises

- Ch 1 & 4 - Binary Shifts & Bitwise Operations Homework Exercises

- Ch 9 Decomposition Past Exam & Homework Exercises

g) HomeWork Solutions Posting (FB) :

- n/a

Class 4 (5 Oct 2024)

a) Class Summary:

Homework Review: Nil and Ahmed discussed homework progress, with a focus on challenging exercises involving pseudocode and flowcharts.
Logic Gates and Masks: Ahmed explained the use of masks in logic gates, emphasizing how masks control bitwise operations and the difference between inverting bits with 'NOT' and 'XOR'.
Binary and BCD Representation: The class covered representing negative numbers in binary and the limitations of Binary Coded Decimal (BCD) in handling decimal points.
Character Sets: Ahmed explained ASCII, extended ASCII, and Unicode, focusing on how different character sets are used for language representation in computers.
Pseudocode and Data Types: Ahmed introduced the concepts of pseudocode for algorithm representation and reviewed data types like integer, real, Boolean, and string, explaining their memory requirements.
Variables and Constants: The session covered the declaration and assignment of variables, the importance of constants in programming, and examples of pseudocode with conditionals and operations.

b) Video (Saturday):

- According to Scholege procedures

d) Files:

- Class 4: Homework Answers on Bitwise, Masking, and Decomposition

- Chapter 1.3: Binary Representation, BCD, Masks, and Logic Gates (Complete Slides)

- Chapter 1.1.3: Character Sets Overview

- Chapter 9.2.1: Algorithms in Pseudocode - Data Types and Selection Statements

e) Class Code:

- n/a

f) Exercises:

- Chapter 1.3: Character Sets Homework Exercise

- Chapter 1.3: Binary Signed Numbers and BCD Operations Homework

- Chapter 9.2.1: Algorithms and Pseudocode Code Explanation and Homework Exercise

g) HomeWork Solutions Posting (FB) :

- n/a

Class 5 (12 Oct 2024)

a) Class Summary:

School Project & Mobile App Development: Nil shared details about her app project, focusing on fishing and endangered species. The discussion also touched on Ahmed’s past experiences with similar projects.
Binary Representation & BCD Addition: They reviewed binary addition, correcting errors in Nil’s binary representation, and discussed the process of adding in Binary-Coded Decimal (BCD).
Signed Binary Numbers: Ahmed explained the use of the sign bit in an 8-bit register and guided Nil through converting positive to negative numbers in binary.
Web Address Representation: The importance of understanding code representation for web addresses was discussed, emphasizing understanding over memorization.
Logic Gates & Boolean Operations: They reviewed XOR, NAND, NOR gates, focusing on building truth tables and understanding Boolean logic.
Pseudocode & Conditional Statements: Nil and Ahmed discussed conditional logic in pseudocode, including the use of nested if and case statements.

b) Video (Saturday):

- According to Scholege procedures

d) Files:

- A-Level Algorithm in Pseudocode: Nested If & Case Of

- A-Level Chapter 3.2 Logic Gates and Circuits

- A-Level Class 5 Homework Answers

e) Class Code:

- n/a

f) Exercises:

- A-Level Algorithms in Pseudocode & Flowcharts Homework

- A-Level Chapter 3.2 Logic Gates and Circuits Homework

- Exam Questions in BCD & Binary Conversion

g) HomeWork Solutions Posting (FB) :

- n/a

Class 6 (19 Oct 2024)

a) Class Summary:

Introduction to Binary-Coded Decimal (BCD) and Hexadecimal: The class covered conversions between binary, decimal, and hexadecimal number systems, focusing on Binary-Coded Decimal (BCD). Ahmed explained its practical applications, particularly in financial systems and digital clocks.
Programming Logic and Pseudocode: Key programming concepts were discussed, including logic gates, truth tables, and pseudocode writing. Ahmed advised on solving problems using nested if-else and switch case statements, guiding Nil through issues with code structure and logic.
Exam Preparation and Strategy: Ahmed emphasized understanding slides over textbooks for exam prep, focusing on past paper questions. Techniques for solving common exam questions were demonstrated, particularly related to binary conversions and logic gates.
Advice for Nil (Personalized): Nil should prioritize understanding the foundational concepts (e.g., number system conversions) and practice past exam questions. A regular study schedule is essential, especially for logic gate exercises and pseudocode writing. Avoid overloading with tasks during exam season, focusing instead on quality revision.

b) Video (Saturday):

- According to Scholege procedures

d) Files:

e) Class Code:

- n/a

f) Exercises:

g) HomeWork Solutions Posting (FB) :

- n/a

Class 7 (29 Oct 2024)

a) Class Summary:

Understanding Boolean Expressions: Ahmed clarified the representation of Boolean expressions in logic gates, explaining the distinction between real inputs and intermediate outputs to enhance Nil's understanding of logical operations.
Hexadecimal Codes and Debugging: The session covered the significance of hexadecimal codes in memory dumps for debugging errors, particularly in older Windows systems, and how these codes help programmers troubleshoot issues.
Network Cards and MAC Addresses: Ahmed explained the function of network cards, emphasizing the importance of MAC addresses for unique identification and their roles in network communication.
Bitmap vs. Vector Images: The differences between bitmap and vector images were discussed, highlighting their respective advantages in terms of quality, file size, and usage in various applications.
Personal Advice on Learning: Ahmed encouraged Nil to practice coding regularly, emphasizing the importance of hands-on experience with loops and programming concepts to build confidence and proficiency. He advised Nil to focus on breaking down complex problems into smaller, manageable parts for easier understanding.

b) Video (Tuesday):

- Title : Exploring Programming Concepts: Loops, Boolean Expressions, and Image Types

d) Files:

e) Class Code:

- Grade Selection Example in Pseudocode

f) Exercises:

g) HomeWork Solutions Posting (FB) :

- n/a

Class 8 (7 Dec 2024)

a) Class Summary:

Understanding Pixels and Digital Images:
- Nil and Ahmed discussed how pixels define images in terms of color and position in a bitmap matrix. They clarified the relationship between pixels and image quality, including the impact of scaling.
Testing Code and Debugging:
- They tested code that determines the smallest number among three inputs, ensuring its functionality through different input types. Ahmed stressed the importance of comprehensive testing to verify correctness.
Sound Processing and Sampling Rates:
- The class covered digital sound processing, including sampling rates and bit depth. Nil learned that higher sampling rates lead to better sound quality, though she needed more practice identifying the effects visually.
Loop Structures in Programming:
- They explored different types of loops (for and while) and how to use them to avoid repetitive code. Nil understood the importance of loops in managing user inputs and controlling code flow.
Study Progress and Exam Preparation:
- Nil shared her study progress, having completed several chapters, and discussed exam preparation strategies. They agreed on a plan for Nil to complete practice papers and review relevant topics for her upcoming exams.