0% found this document useful (0 votes)
11 views55 pages

Computer Science syllabus

The Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science syllabus for 2023-2025 prepares students aged 14-16 for exams in various series, emphasizing computational thinking, programming, and the principles of computer systems. It includes two main assessment papers focusing on computer systems and algorithms, with a strong emphasis on practical problem-solving and programming skills. The syllabus is recognized internationally, providing a solid foundation for further studies and is supported by extensive resources and professional development for teachers.

Uploaded by

CINDY AN
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF or read online on Scribd
0% found this document useful (0 votes)
11 views55 pages

Computer Science syllabus

The Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science syllabus for 2023-2025 prepares students aged 14-16 for exams in various series, emphasizing computational thinking, programming, and the principles of computer systems. It includes two main assessment papers focusing on computer systems and algorithms, with a strong emphasis on practical problem-solving and programming skills. The syllabus is recognized internationally, providing a solid foundation for further studies and is supported by extensive resources and professional development for teachers.

Uploaded by

CINDY AN
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 55
[323 Cambridge Assessment (International Education Syllabus Cambridge IGCSE™ Computer Science 0478 Use this syllabus for exams in 2023, 2024 and 2025. Exams are available in the June and November series. Exams are also available in the March series in India only. Camhbhridca Why choose Cambridge International? Cambridge International prepares school students for life, helping them develop an informed curiosity and a lasting passion for leaning, We are part of the University of Cambridge, Our Cambridge Pathway gives students a clear path for educational success from age § to 19. Schools can shape the curriculum around how they want students to learn— with a wide range of subjects and flexible ways to offer them. It helps students discover new abilities and a wider world, and gives them the skills they need for life, so they ‘an achieve at school, university and work. (ur programmes and qualifications set the global standard for international education, They are created by subject ‘experts, rooted in academic rigour and reflect the latest educational research. They provide a strong platform for learners to progress from one stage to the next, and are well supported by teaching and learning resources. Cur mission is to provide educational benefit through provision of international programmes and qualifications for school education and to be the world leader in this field. Together with schools, we develop Cambridge learners who are confident, responsible, reflective, innovative and engaged - equipped for success in the modern world Every year, nearly a million Cambridge students from 10 000 schools in 160 countries prepare for their future with the Cambridge Pathway. "We think the Cambridge curriculum is superb preparation for university.” Christoph Guttentag, Dean of Undergraduate Admissions, Dute Univesity, USA ‘Cambridge Intemational is committed to providing exceptional quality. Inline with this commitment, our quality management system for the provision of international qualifications and education programmes for students aged 5 to 19 is independently certified as meeting the internationally recognised standard, 150 9001:2075, Learn more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/ISO9001 Copyright OUCLES September 2020, Cambridge Assessment Intemational Eéueation is part ofthe Cambridge Assessment Group, Cambridge Assessment isthe brand name of ‘the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES), which self i department f the Unversity af Cambrioge LUCLES retains the copyright om ll its publications. Registered centves are permitted to copy materia from this booklet for ther wn Internal ure. However, we cannot give permission to centres to photocopy ary material that i acnowledged to a tire party even for Internal use within a centre Contents 1 Why choose this syllabus? 2 Syllabus overview Aims Content overview Assessment overview Assessment objectives 3 Subject content Computer systems Algorithms, programming and logic 4 Details of the assessment Paper 1 Computer Systems Paper 2 - Algorithms, Programming and Logic Mathematical requirements Flowchart symbols Logic gate symbols Pseudocode Command words 5 What else you need to know Before you start Making entries After the exam How students and teachers can use the grades Grade descriptions Changes to this syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025 Important: Changes to this syllabus For information about changes to this syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025, go to page 51. ey ann © 23 30 30 30 31 31 32 33 47 48 48 49 50 50 50 51 Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025, 1 Why choose this syllabus? Key benefits Cambridge IGCSE is the world's most popular international ‘qualification for 14 to 16 year olds, although it can be taken by students of other ages. is tried, tested and trusted. Students can choose from 70 subjects in any combination ~itis taught by over 4800 schools in over 150 counties Cambridge (ur programmes balance a thorough knowledge and understanding learner ‘of a subject and help to develop the sills learners need for their next steps in education or employment. Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science provides an ideal foundation in computer science. Learners gain confidence in computational thinking and programming, an appreciation of automated and ‘emerging technologies and the benefits of their use. They develop an understanding of the main principles of problem-solving by creating computer-based solutions using algorithms and a high-level programming language Learners also develop a range of technical skills including the ability to test effectively and to evaluate solutions. (ur approach in Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science encourages learners to be. ‘confident, interested in learning about computer science and using technical language to communicate their knowledge and understanding responsible, working systematically, safely and securely when using technology reflective, learning from their experiences when creating programs and using technology; understanding how technology impacts society innovative, solving unfamiliar problems and designing computer programs creatively and independently engaged, keen to develop computer science skills and further their understanding of developments in the use of technology. ‘The strength of Cambridge |GCSE qualifications is internationally recognised and has provided an international pathway for our students to continue their studies around the world. Gary Tan, Head of Schools and CFO, Raffles International Group of Sched, Indonesia Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Why choose this syllabus? International recognition and acceptance ‘Our expertise in curriculum, teaching and learning, and assessment is the basis for the recognition of our programmes and qualifications around the world. The combination of knowledge and skills in Cambridge IGCSE ‘Computer Science gives learners a solid foundation for further study. Candidates who achieve grades A* to C are well prepared to follow a wide range of courses including Cambridge International AS & A Level Computer Science ‘Cambridge IGCSES are accepted and valued by leading universities and employers around the world as evidence of academic achievement. Many universities require a combination of Cambridge International AS & A Levels and ‘Cambridge IGCSEs or equivalent to meet their entry requirements UK NARIC, the national agency in the UK for the recognition and comparison of international qualifications and stills, has carried out an independent benchmarking study of Cambridge IGCSE and found it to be comparable to the standard of the reformed GCSE in the UK. This means students can be confident that their Cambridge IGCSE qualifications are accepted as equivalent to UK GCSEs by leading universities worldwide. Learn more at wwvw.cambridgeinternational.org/recognition ‘Cambridge IGCSE is one of the most sought-after and recognised qualifications in the world. It is very popular in Egypt because it provides the perfect preparation for success at advanced level programmes.’ Managing Director of ish Schoo mn Egypt BSE Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Why choose ths syllabus? Supporting teachers We provide a wide range of resources, detailed guidance and innovative training and professional development so that you can give your students the best possible preparation for Cambridge IGCSE. To find out which resources are available for each syllabus go to our School Support Hub, ‘The Schoo! Support Hub is our secure online site for Cambridge teachers where you can find the resources you need to deliver our programmes. You can also keep up to date with your subject and the global Cambridge community through our online discussion forums. Find out more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/support Planning and preparation Teaching and assessment Next step guides Schemes of work Specimen papers syllabuses Teacher guides Endorsed resources ‘© Online forums ‘© Support for coursework and speaking tests iad for Cambridge IGCSE Learning and revision Results + Example candidate responses + Candidate Results Service * Leamer guides + Past papers and mark schernes * Specimen paper answers + Principal examiner reports for teachers + Results Analysis Sign up for email notifications about changes to syllabuses, including new and revised products and services at ‘www cambridgeinternational.org/syllabusupdates Professional development We support teachers through: + Introductory Training — face-to-face or online + Extension Training - face-to-face or online + Enrichment Professional Development - face-to-face or online Find out more at wwww.cambridgeinternational.org/events Cambridge Professional Development Qualifications Find out more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/profdev ‘Supporting exams officers © We provide comprehensive support and guidance for all Cambridge exams officer. Find out more at: www.cambridgeinternational org/eoguide ‘cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 sylabus for 2023, 2024 ané 2025. 2 Syllabus overview Aims ‘The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus. The aims are to enable students to develop ‘+ computational thinking skills # anunderstanding of the main principles of solving problems using computers + the skills necessary to solve computer-based problems using a high-level programming language + an understanding of the component parts of computer systems and how they interrelate + anunderstanding of the internet as a means of communication and its associated risks ‘+ an understanding of the development and use of automated and emerging technologies. Cambridge Assessment international Education is an education organisation and politically neutral. @ The contents ofthis syllabus, examination papers and associated materials do not endorse any political view. We endeavour to treat all aspects of the exam process neutrally Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus fr 2023, 2024 and 2025. Syllabus overview Content overview Candidates study the following topics: Computer systems Data representation Data transmission Hardware Software The internet and its uses Automated and emerging technologies Algorithms, programming and logic 7 Algorithm design and problem-solving 8 Programming 9 Databases 10 Boolean logic Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Syllabus overview Assessment overview All candidates take two components. Candidates will be eligible for grades A* to G. All candidates take: Paper ‘Thour 45 minutes ‘Computer Systems 50% 75 marks Short-answer and structured questions Questions will be based on Topics 1-6 of the subject content All questions are compulsory No calculators are permitted Externally assessed and: Paper 2 ‘Thours 45 minutes Algorithms, Programming and Logic 50% 75 marks Short-answer and structured questions and a scenario-based question Questions will be based on Topics 7-10 of the subject content All questions are compulsory No calculators are permitted Externally assessed Information on availabilty isin the Before you start section Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Syllabus overview Assessment objectives ‘The assessment objectives (AOs) are AOI Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the principles and concepts of computer science. Az Apply knowledge and understanding of the principles and concepts of computer science to a given context, including the analysis and design of computational or programming problems. A03 Provide solutions to problems by: # evaluating computer systems ‘= making reasoned judgements ‘presenting conclusions. Weighting for assessment objectives ‘The approximate weightings allocated to each of the assessment objectives (AOS) are summarised below. Assessment objectives as a percentage of the qualification Assessment objective ‘Weighting in IGCSE % 01 40 Ao2 40 A038 20 Total 100 Assessment objectives as a percentage of each component Assessment objective Weighting in components % Paper Paper2 Aol 60 20 Ao2 20 60 AOS Total 100 100 ‘cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 sylabus for 2023, 2024 ané 2025. 3 Subject content This syllabus gives you the flexibility to design a course that will interest, challenge and engage your learners. ‘Where appropriate you are responsible for selecting resources and examples to support your learners’ study. These should be appropriate for the learners’ age, cultural background and learning context as well as complying with your school policies and local legal requirements. Computer Science is a practical subject and a range of practical exercises must be integral to the teaching of this, ‘qualification. It is important that learners develop their computational thinking skills by doing practical problem- solving and programming using appropriate resources. Itis also expected that learners have the opportunity in class to write their own programs, as well as executing (running), testing and debugging them Any equipment and facilities should be adequate for learners to be able to satisfy the requirements of the syllabus The hardware facilities needed will depend on the number of learners but must be sufficient for all learners to have ‘enough time to practise their programming skill, Learners also need to have access to a system with direct-access file capability on backing store and hardcopy facilites, Computer systems 1 Datarepresentation 1.1 Number systems Candidates should be able to: 1. Understand how and why computers use binary to represent all forms of data 2 (a) Understand the denary, binary and hexadecimal number systems {b) Convert between (i) positive denary and positive binary (i) positive denary and positive hexadecimal (i) positive hexadecimal and positive binary 3. Understand how and why hexadecimal is used as a beneficial method of data representation 4 (a) Add two positive 8-bit binary integers (6) Understand the concept of overflow and why it occurs in binary addition Notes and guidance + Any form of data needs to be converted to binary to be processed by a computer + Data is processed using logic gates and stored in registers + Denary isa base 10 system # Binary isa base 2 system * Hexadecimal isa base 16 system # Values used will be integers only * Conversions in both directions, e.g. denary to binary or binary to denary * Maximum binary number length of 16-bit * Areas within computer science that hexadecimal is used should be identified # Hexadecimal is easier for humans to understand than binary, as itis a shorter representation of the binary * An overflow error will occur ifthe value is greater than 255 in an 8-bit register © Acomputer or a device has a predefined limit that it can represent or store, for example 16-bit * An overflow error occurs when a value outside this limit should be retumed Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025, Subject content 11 Number systems co ued Candidates should be able to: 5 Perform a logical binary shift on a positive 8-bit binary integer and understand the effect this has on the positive binary integer Use two's complement to represent positive and negative 8-bit binary integers 12. Text, sound and images Candidates should be able to: 1 Understand how and why a computer represents text and the use of character sets, including ‘American standard code for information interchange (ASCII) and Unicode Understand how and why a computer represents sound, including the effects of the sample rate and sample resolution Notes and guidance + Perform logical left shifts + Perform logical right shifts # Perform multiple shifts ‘© Bits shifted from the end of the register are lost and zer0s are shifted in at the opposite end of the register # The positive binary integer is multiplied or divided according to the shift performed + The most significant bit(s) or least significant bit(s) are lost + Convert a positive binary or denaty integer toa ‘two's complement 8-bit integer and vice versa + Convert a negetive binary or denary integer to a two's complement 8-bit integer and vice versa Notes and guidance «Text is converted to binary to be processed by a computer # Unicode allows for a greater range of characters and symbols than ASCI, including different languages and emojis + Unicode requires more bits per character than ASCII + Asound wave is sampled for sound to be converted to binary, which is processed by a computer +The sample rate is the number of samples taken ina second The sample resolution is the number of bits per sample # The accuracy of the recording and the file size increases as the sample rate and resolution increase ‘Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus fr 2023, 2024 and 2025, Subject content 1.2. Text, sound and images continued Candidates should be able to: 3° Understand how and why a computer represents an image, including the effects of the resolution and colour depth 1.3. Data storage and compression Candidates should be able to: 1. Understand how data storage is measured 2 Calculate the file size of an image file and a sound file, using information given 3. Understand the purpose of and need for data compression Notes and guidance + An image isa series of pixels that are converted to binary, which is processed by a computer +The resolution is the number of pixels in the image +The colour depth is the number of bits used to represent each colour © The file size and quality of the image increases as the resolution and colour depth increase Notes and guidance + Including: - bit = nibble = byte = kibibyte (Kis) = mebibyte (MiB) = gibibyte (GiB) = tebibyte (TiB) — _pebibyte (Pi8) = exbibyte (E18) * The amount of the previous denomination present in the data storage size, eg — Bbitsina byte 1024 mebidytes ina gibibyte # Answers must be given in the units specified in the question. Calculations must use the measurement of 1024 and not 1000 + Information given may include: = image resolution and colour depth sound sample rate, resolution and length of track # Compression exists to reduce the size of the file * The impact of this is, eg. = less bandwidth required = less storage space required = shorter transmission time 13. Data storage and compression continued Candidates should be able to: 4 Understand how files are compressed using lossy and lossless compression methods 2 Data transmission 2.1. Types and methods of data transmission Candidates should be able to: 1. (@) Understand that data is broken down into packets to be transmitted (0) Describe the icture of a packet (c) Describe the process of packet switching 2 (a) Describe how data is transmitted from one device to another using different methods of data transmission (0) Explain the suitability of each method of data transmission, for a given scenario 3. Understand the universal serial bus (US8) interface and explain how itis used to transmit data Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content Notes and guidance + Lossless compression reduces the filesize without permanent loss of data, e.g. run length encoding (RLE) # Lossy compression reduces the file size by permanently removing data, e.g. reducing resolution or colour depth, reducing sample rate or resolution Notes and guidance # Apacket of data contains a — packet header payload trailer +The packet header includes the: — destination address = packet number originator's address + Data is broken down into packets © Each packet could take a different route © Arouter controls the route a packet takes Packets may arrive out of order © Once the last packet has arrived, packets are reordered © Including serial parallel simplex half-duplex full-duplex Including the advantages and disadvantages of each method Including the benefits and drawbacks of the interface Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus fr 2023, 2024 and 2025, Subject content 22 Methods of error detection Candidates should be able to: Notes and guidance 1. Understand the need to check for errors after + Errors can occur during data transmission due to data transmission and how these errors can occur interference, eg. data loss, data gain and data change 2 Describe the processes involved in each of the # Including parity byte and parity block check following error detection methods for detecting errors in data after transmission: parity check {odd and even), checksum and echo check 3 Describe how a check digit is used to detect errors in data entry and identify examples of when a check digit is used, including international standard book numbers (ISBN) and bar codes 4 Describe how an automatic repeat query (ARQ) -—-# Including the use of: can be used to establish that data is received — _ positive/negative acknowledgements without error = timeout 23 Encryption Candidates should be able to: Notes and guidance 1. Understand the need for and purpose of encryption when transmitting data 2 Understand how data is encrypted using * Asymmetric encryption includes the use of public symmetric and asymmetric encryption and private keys (Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025, Subject content 3 Hardware 3.1 Computer architecture Candidates should be able to: 1 (a) Understand the role of the central processing unit (CPU) in a computer (b) Understand what is meant by a microprocessor (a) Understand the purpose of the components ina CPU, ina computer that has a Von Neumann architecture 0) Describe the process of the fetch-decode-execute (FDE) cycle including the role of each component in the process Understand what is meant by a core, cache and lock in a CPU and explain how they can affect. the performance of a CPU Understand the purpose and use of an instruction set fora CPU Describe the purpose and characteristics of an embedded system and identify devices in which they are commonly used Notes and guidance +The CPU processes instructions and data that are input into the computer so that the result can be output + Amicroprocessor is @ type of integrated circuit ona single chip + Including: ~ units: arithmetic logic unit (ALU) and contrat unit (CU) = registers: program counter (PC), memory address register (MAR), memory data register (MOR), current instruction register (CIR) and accumulator (ACC) — buses: address bus, data bus and control bus ‘+ How instructions and data are fetched from random access memory (RAM) into the CPU, how they are processed using each component and how they are then executed # Storing data and addresses into specific registers Using buses to transmit data, addresses and signals Using units to fetch, decode and execute data and instructions # The number of cores, size of the cache and speed of the clock can affect the performance of a CPU An instruction set is alist ofall the commands that can be processed by a CPU and the commands are machine code An embedded system is used to perform a dedicated function, eg. domestic appliances, cars, security systems, lighting systems or vending machines. Ths is different to a general purpose computer that is used to perform many different functions, eg. a personal computer (PC) ora laptop Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus fr 2023, 2024 and 2025, Subject content 3.2 Input and output devices Candidates should be able to: Notes and guidance 1. Understand what is meant by an input device and * Including: why itis required = barcode scanner = digital camera = keyboard = microphone = optical mouse = QReode scanner touch screen (resistive, capacitive and infra-red) two-dimensional (20) and three-dimensional (80) scanners 2 Understand what is meant by an output device + Including: and why itis required = actuator = digital tight processing (DLP) projector ~ inkjet printer = laser printer = light emitting diode (LED) screen liquid crystal display (LO) projector — liquid crystal display (LCO) screen = speaker = 3D printer 3° (a) Understand what is meant by a sensor and + Limited to: the purposes of sensors = acoustic = accelerometer = flow - gas = humidity = infrarred = level = light = magnetic field = moisture — pH = pressure = proximity temperature (6) Identify the type of data captured by each sensor and understand when each sensor would be used, including selecting the most suitable sensor fora given context Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025, 3.3 Datastorage Candidates should be able to: 1. Understand what is meant by primary storage 2 Understand what is meant by secondary storage 3. Describe the operation of magnetic, optical and solid-state (flash memory) storage and give examples of each 4 Describe what is meant by virtual memory, how ‘is created and used and why it isnecessary 5 Understand what is meant by cloud storage 6 Explain the advantages and disadvantages of storing data on the cloud in comparison to storing it locally Subject content Notes and guidance + Primary storage is directly accessed by the CPU Including the role of = random access memory (RAM) = read only memory (ROM) Including why a computer needs both RAM and ROM, and the difference between them # Secondary storage is not directly accessed by the CPU and is necessary for more permanent storage of data + Magnetic storage uses platters which are divided into tracks and sectors. Datais read and written Using electromagnet Optical storage uses lasers to create and read pits and lands Solid-state (flash memory) uses NAND or NOR technology. Transistors are used as control gates and floating gates + Pages of data are transferred between RAM and Virtual memory when needed + Cloud storage can be accessed remotely in comparison to storing data locally + Physical servers and storage are needed to store data in cloud storage Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus fr 2023, 2024 and 2025, Subject content 3.4. Network hardware Candidates should be able to: 1. Understand that a computer needs a network interface card (NIC) to access a network 2 Understand what is meant by and the purpose of a media access control (MAC) address, including its structure 3 (a) Understand what is meant by and the purpose of an internet protocol (IP) address (b) Understand that there are different types of IP address 4 Describe the role of a router in a network 4 Software 4.1 Types of software and interrupts Candidates should be able to: 1._Describe the difference between system software and application software and provide examples of each 2. Describe the role and basic functions of an operating system Notes and guidance = Anetwork interface card is given a MAC address at the point of manufacture © MAC addresses are usually written as hexadecimal © MAC addresses are created using the manufacturer code and the serial code * An IP address is allocated by the network and they can be static or dynamic Including the characteristics of and differences between IPv4 and IPv6 © Arouter sends data to a specific destination on a network + Arouter can assign IP addresses © Arouter can connect a local network to the internet Notes and guidance System software provides the services that the computer requires, including operating system and utility software * Application software provides the services that the user requires + Including: = managing files = handling interrupts = providing an interface — managing peripherals and drivers = managing memory = managing multitasking = providing a platform for running applications = providing system security = managing user accounts 4.1 Types of software and interrupts continued Candidates should be able to: 3. Understand how hardware, firmware and an ‘operating system are required to run applications software 4 Describe the role and operation of interrupts Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content Notes and guidance + Applications are run on the operating system The operating system is run on the firmware # The bootloader (firmware) is run on the hardware # Including: = how an interrupt is generated — how it is handled using an interrupt service — what happens as a result of the interrupts ‘+ Software interrupts include division by zero and two processes trying to access the same memory location + Hardware interrupts include pressing a key on the keyboard and moving the mouse 4.2. Types of programming language, translators and integrated development environments (IDEs) Candidates should be able to: 1. Explain what is meant by a high-level language and a low-level language, including the advantages and disadvantages of each 2 Understand that assembly language is @ form of low-level language that uses mnemonics, and that an assembler is needed to translate an assembly language program into machine code 3 Describe the operation of a compiler and an interpreter, including how high-level language is translated by each and how errors are reported Notes and guidance # Advantages and disadvantages include: ease of reading and writing code, eg low-level is hard to read ease of debugging code machine independence direct manipulation of hardware © Acompiler translates the whole code at once before executing it, producing an executable file * An interpreter translates and executes the code line-by-tine © Acompiler provides an error report for the whole code if errors are detected ‘© An interpreter stops execution when an error is. found Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus fr 2023, 2024 and 2025, Subject content 4.2. Types of programming language, translators and integrated development environments (IDEs) continued Candidates should be able to: 4 Explain the advantages and disadvantages of @ compiler and an interpreter 5 Explain the role of an IDE in writing program code and the common functions IDEs provide 5 The internet and its uses 5.1. The internet and the world wide web Candidates should be able to: 1. Understand the difference between the internet, and the world wide web 2. Understand what is meant by a uniform resource locator (URL) 3 Describe the purpose and operation of hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP) and hypertext transfer protocol secure (HTTPS) 4 Explain the purpose and functions of a web browser Notes and guidance # Tolinclude an understanding that an interpreter is mostly used when developing a program and a compiler is used to translate the final program © Including: code editors = run-time environment translators = error diagnostics = auto-completion - auto-correction = prettyprint Notes and guidance * The internet is the infrastructure * The world wide web is the collection of websites and web pages accessed using the internet * AURLisa text-based address for a web page; it can contain the protocol, the domain name and the web page/file name + The main purpose of a web browser is to render hypertext markup language (HTML) and display web pages + Functions include: ~ storing bookmarks and favourites = recording user history = allowing use of multiple tabs — storing cookies ~ providing navigation tools = providing an address bar 5.1. The internet and the world wide web cor Candidates should be able to: 5 Describe how web pages are located, retrieved and displayed on a device when a user enters a URL 6 Explain what is meant by cookies and how they are used, including session cookies and persistent cookies 5.2. Digital currency Candidates should be able to: 1. Understand the concept of a digital currency and how digital currencies are used 2 Understand the process of blockchain and how it 's used to track digital currency transactions 5.3 Cyber security Candidates should be able to: 1. Describe the processes involved in, and the aim of carrying out, a range of cyber security threats Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025, Subject content Notes and guidance + Including the role of =the web browser = WPaddresses = domain name server (ONS) web server = HTML * Cookies are used for functions, including = saving personal details = tracking user preferences = holding items in an ontine shopping cart storing login details Notes and guidance © A digital currency is on electronically at only exists ‘© Blockchain, in its basic form, is a digital ledger, that is a time-stamped series of records that cannot be altered Notes and guidance + Including — brute-force attack = data interception ~ distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack = hacking = malware (virus, worm, Trojan horse, spyware, adware, rensomware) = phatming = phishing ~ social engineering Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus fr 2023, 2024 and 2025, Subject content 5.3. Cyber security continued Candidates should be able to: 2 Explain how a range of solutions are used to help keep data safe from security threats 6 Automated and emerging technologies 6.1 Automated systems Candidates should be able to: 1. Describe how sensors, microprocessors and actuators can be used in collaboration to create automated systems 2 Describe the advantages and disadvantages of an automated system used for a given scenario Notes and guidance Including = access levels ~ anti-malware including anti-virus and anti-spyware = authentication (username and password, biometrics, two-step verification) — automating software updates = checking the spelling and tone of ‘communications — checking the URL attached toa link = firewalls = privacy settings = proxy-servers — secure socket layer (SSL) security protocol and guidance Including scenarios from — industry — transport ~ agriculture — weather = gaming = lighting 62 Robotics Candidates should be able to: 1. Understand what is meant by robotics 2. Describe the characteristics of a robot 3. Understand the roles that robots can perform and describe the advantages and disadvantages of their use 6.3 Artificial intelligence Candidates should be able to: 1. Understand what is meant by artificial intelligence (Al) 2 Describe the main characteristics of Alas the collection of data and the rules for using that data, the ability to reason, and can include the ability to learn and adapt 3 _ Explain the basic operation and components of Al systems to simulate intelligent behaviour Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content Notes and guidance ‘© Robotics is a branch of computer science that incorporates the design, construction and operation of robots © Examples include factory equipment, domestic robots and drones * Including: ~ _amechanical structure or framework = electrical components, such as sensors, microprocessors and actuators = programmable + Robots can be used in areas including: = industry = transport = agriculture = medicine = domestic = entertainment Notes and guidance + Alisa branch of computer science dealing with the simulation of intelligent behaviours by computers © Limited to: expert systems machine learning © Expert systems have a knowledge base, arule base, an inference engine and an interface © Machine learning is when a program has the ability to automatically adapt its own processes and/or data Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus fr 2023, 2024 and 2025, Subject content Algorithms, programming and logic See section 4 for the: ‘standard flowchart symbols that must be used by students when drawing flowcharts + logic gate symbols that must be used by students when drawing logic circuits ‘+ format in which pseudocode will appear in examinations. Students are advised to program solutions to a variety of different problems on a computer, using one of these high-level programming languages: Python, VB.NET or Java 7 Algorithm design and problem-solving Candidates should be able to: Notes and guidance 1. Understand the program development life cycle,» Including identifying each stage and performing limited to: analysis, design, coding and testing these tasks for each stage: = analysis: abstraction, decomposition of the problem, identification of the problem ané requirements = design: decomposition, structure diagrams, flowcharts, pseudocode — coding: writing program code and iterative testing = testing: testing program code with the use of test data 2 (a) Understand that every computer system is made up of sub-systems, which are made up of further sub-systems (0) Understand how a problem can be + Including: decomposed into its component parts — inputs = processes = outputs = storage (6) Use different methods to design and + Including: construct a solution to a problem = structure diagrams = flowcharts = pseudocode 3 Explain the purpose of a given algorithm + Including: ~ stating the purpose of an algorithm = describing the processes involved in an algorithm Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025, Subject content 7 Algorithm design and problem-solving continued Candidates should be able to: 4 Understand standard methods of solution 5 (a) Understand the need for validation checks to be made on input data and the different types of validation check (b) Understand the need for verification checks to be made on input data and the different types of verification check 6 Suggest and apply suitable test data 7 Complete a trace table to document a dry-run of an algorithm 8 Identify errors in given algorithms and suggest ways of correcting these errors Notes and guidance Limited to: = linear search = bubble sort = totalling counting = finding maximum, minimum and average values Including = range check = length check = type check = presence check format check = check digit = the purpose of each validation check and writing algorithms to implement each validation check Including = visual check = double entry check = The purpose of each verification check Limited to: = normal = abnormal = extreme = boundary Extreme data is the largest/smallest acceptable value Boundary data isthe largest/smallest acceptable value and the corresponding smallest/largest rejected value Including, at each step in an algorithm: = variables = outputs user prompts Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus fr 2023, 2024 and 2025, Subject content 7 Algorithm design and problem-solving continued 9 Write and amend algorithms for given problems or scenarios, using: pseudocode, program code and flowcharts 8 Programming 8.1. Programming concepts Candidates should be able to: 1. Declare and use variables and constants 2. Understand and use the basic data types 3° Understand and use input and output 4 (a) Understand and use the concept of sequence (6) Understand and use the concept of selection (6) Understand and use the concept of iteration (4) Understand and use the concepts of totalling and counting (e) Understand and use the concept of string handling Precision is required when writing algorithms, eg. x > yisacceptable but x is greater than yisnot acceptable See section 4 for flowchart symbols See section 4 for pseudocode ‘and guidance Including = integer = real = char = string = Boolean Including: = LF statements = CASE statements Including = count-controlled loops = pre-condition loops = post-condition loops Including = length = substring = upper = lower The first character of the string can be position Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 8.1. Programming concepts continued Candidates should be able to: (1) Understand and use arithmetic, logical and Boolean operators 5. Understand and use nested statements 6 (a) Understand what is meant by procedures, functions and parameters (b) Define and use procedures and functions, with or without parameters (€) Understand and use tocal and global variables 7 Understand and use library routines Notes and guidance Arithmetic, limited to: -+ = * (raised to power off = MoD = piv Logical, limited to: -<> (pot equal to) Boolean, limited to: - AND - oR =~ Kot Including nested selection and iteration Candidates will not be required to write more than three levels of nested statements. Procedures and functions may have up to two parameters Including: - MoD - ov — ROUND RANDOM Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus fr 2023, 2024 and 2025, Subject content 8.1 Programming concepts continued Candidates should be able to: 8 Understand how to create a maintainable program 82 Arrays Candidates should be able to: 1. Declare and use one-dimensional (10) and two-dimensional (20) arrays 2 Understand the use of arrays 3. Write values into and read values from an array using iteration 8.3 File handling Candidates should be able to: 1. Understand the purpose of storing data in a file to be used by a program 2 Open, close and use a file for reading and writing Notes and guidance + Including appropriate use of = meaningful identifiers = the commenting feature provided by the programming language = procedures and functions relevant and appropriate commenting of syntax * Use meaningful identifiers for: = variables = constants = arrays procedures and funct Notes and guidance # Including the use of variables as indexes in arrays # The first index can be zero or one # Including nested iteration Notes and guidance © Including: read and write single items of data = read and write aline of text Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 9 Databases Candidates should be able to: Notes and guidance 1. Define a single-table database from given data © Including: storage requirements. = fields - records = validation 2 Suggest suitable basic data types © Including = text/alphanumeric character = Boolean integer - real date/time 3. Understand the purpose of a primary key and Identify a suitable primary key for a given database table 4 Read, understand and complete structured query * Limited to: language (SQL) scripts to query data stored in a single database table - sense? FROM - WHERE ORDER BY - sum - counr + Identifying the output given by an SQL statement that will query the given contents of a database table Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus fr 2023, 2024 and 2025, Subject content 10 Boolean logic Candidates should be able to: 1 2 3 Identify and use the standard symbols for logic gates Define and understand the functions of the logic gates (2) Use logic gates to create given logic circuits from a (i) problem statement (i) logic expression (ii) truth table (6) Complete a truth table from a (i) problem statement (i) logic expression (il) logic circuit (6) Write alogic expression from a (i) problem statement (i) logic circuit (ii) truth table Notes and guidance # See section 4 for logic gate symbols * Including: = NoT = AND = OR = NAND = NOR = XOR (FOR) = the binary output produced from all the possible binary inputs + NOTisa single input gate #AlLother gates are limited to two inputs # Circuits must be drawn for the statement given, without simplification # Logic circuits willbe limited to a maximum of three inputs and one output © Anexample truth table with three inputs, for completion: A BC Output oo 0 oo 1 o 1 ° o 1 1 1 0 ° 1 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025, 4 Details of the assessment Paper 1— Computer Systems ‘Written paper, 1hour 45 minutes, 75 marks ‘This question paper consists of short-answer and structured questions set on Topics 16 of the subject content. All questions are compulsory, and candidates answer on the question paper. This paper assesses all assessment objectives, AOT, AO2 and AO3, and assesses the full grade range, A* to ©. This papers externally assessed Calculators are not allowed in this examination, Paper 2 - Algorithms, Programming and Logic Written paper, 1hour 45 minutes, 75 marks This question paper consists of short-answer and structured questions set on Topics 7-10 of the subject content. All questions are compulsory, and candidates answer on the question paper. ‘The questions require candidates to have practical programming experience Knowledge of programming language syntax is not examined; in all cases the logic is more important than the syntax. This paper assesses all assessment objectives, AO, AOZ and AO3, and assesses the full grade range, A* to. This paper is externally assessed. Calculators are not allowed in this examination, Scenario question ‘The final question in Paper 2 is a 15-mark unseen scenario question. Candidates will be required to write an algorithm using pseudocode or program code for the context provided. Itis expected that candidates should spend 30 minutes answering this question, ‘Teachers are advised to familarise themselves with the updated Paper 2 specimen paper and the mark scheme for first assessment 2023 which provides an example of the scenario question, how it will be marked, and includes an indicative 15-mark response. Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus fr 2023, 2024 and 2025. Details ofthe assessment Mathematical requirements Calculators are not permitted in IGCSE Computer Science examinations. Candidates should be able to: + add, subtract, multiply and divide + use averages, random numbers, decimals, fractions, percentages and ratios + use both positive and negative integers, and real numbers + use arithmetic and Boolean operators ‘+ use different number systems, including binary, denary and hexadecimal ‘+ use methods of counting, totalling and rounding. Flowchart symbols Flow line ‘An atrow represents control passing between Sal the connected shapes. Process This shape represents something being performed or done, Subroutine This shape represents a subroutine call that will relate to a separate, non-linked flowchart Input/Output This shape represents the input or output of something into or out of the flowchart Decision This shape represents a decision (Yes/No or True/False) that results in two tines representing the different possible outcomes Terminator —_This shape represents the ‘Start’ and ‘Stop’ of the process Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus fr 2023, 2024 and 2025. Details ofthe assessment Logic gate symbols NoT AND. oR NAND NOR XOR (EOR) VYOUDY Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Details of the assessment Pseudocode ‘The following information sets out how pseudocode will appear within the examinations ofthis syllabus. The ‘numbers and letters that appear at the end of a sub-heading provide a cross reference to the relevant section of the subject content. General style Font style and size Pseudocode is presented in Courier New, The sizeof the font will be consistent throughout Indentation Lines are indented by four spaces to indicate that they are contained within a statement in a previous line, Where it is not possible to fit a statement on one line any continuation lines are indented by two spaces from the margin. In ‘cases where line numbering is used, this indentation may be omitted. Every effort will be made to make sure that code statements are not longer than a line of code, uness this is necessary, Note that the THEN and ELSE clauses of an TF statement are indented by only two spaces. Cases in CASE statements are also indented by only two spaces. Case Keywords are in upper case, eg. IF, REPEAT, PROCEDURE. Identifiers are in mixed case with upper case letters indicating the beginning of new words, eg NumberofPlayers. Meta-variables — symbols in the pseudocode that should be substituted by other symbols are enclosed in angled brackets < > Example -meta-variables REPEAT. UNTIL Lines and line numbering Each line representing a statement is numbered, However, when a statement runs over one line of text, the continuation lines are not numbered, Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Details of the assessment Comments Comments are preceded by two forward slashes //. The comment continues until the end of the line. For multi-line comments, each line is preceded by / / Normally the comment is on a separate line before, and at the same level of indentation as, the code it refers to, Occasionally, however, a short comment that refers to a single line may be at the end of the line to which it refers. Example - comments // This procedure swaps // values of X and ¥ PROCEDURE SWAP(X EGER, ¥ : INTEGER) Temp < X // temporarily store x xey y © verp ENDPROCEDURE Variables, constants and data types Basic data types (8.1.2) ‘The following keywords are used to designate basic data types a whole number © REAL a number capable of containing a fractional part © CHAR a single character © STRING a sequence of zero or more characters © BOOLEAN the logical values TRUE and FALSE, Literals Literals of the above data types are written as follows, * Integer written as normal in the denary system, e.g. 5, -3 © Real always written with at least one digit on either side of the decimal point, zeros being added if necessary, eg. 4.7,0.3,-4.0,0.0 + Char a single character delimited by single quotes, eg. "x", "c", 18" + String delimited by double quotes. string may contain no characters (ie. the empty string), eg. "This is a " © Boolean ‘TRUE, FALSE Identifiers Identifiers (the names given to variables, constants, procedures and functions) are in mixed case using Pascal case, eg. FirstName. They can only contain letters (A~Z, a~z) and digits (0-3). They must start with a capital letter and not a digit. Accented letters and other characters, including the underscore, should not be used Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Details of the assessment ‘Asin programming, Its good practice to use identifier names that describe the variable, procedure or function to which they refer. Single letters may be used where these are conventional (such as i and 3 when dealing with array indices, or X and ¥ when dealing with coordinates) as these are made clear by the convention, Keywords should never be used as identifier names. Identifiers should be considered case insensitive, for example, Countdown and Count.Down should not be used 1a separate variables. Variable declarations (8.1.1) Declarations are made as follows: DECLARE : Example —variable declarations DECLARE Counter : INTEGER DECLARE TotalToPay : REAL DECLARE GameOver : BOOLEAN Constants (8.1.1) Itis good practice to use constants if this makes the pseudocode more readable, and easier to update if the value of the constant changes. Constants are declared by stating the identifier and the literal value in the following format: CONSTANT « Example ~ CONSTANT declarations CONSTANT HourlyRate < 6.50 CONSTANT DefaultText < "N/A" ‘Only literals can be used as the value of a constant. A variable, another constant or an expression must never be used. Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus fr 2023, 2024 and 2025. Details of the assessment Assignments The assignment operator is — Assignments should be made in the following format: « ‘The identifier must refer to a variable (this can be an individual element in a data structure such as an array or an abstract data type). The value may be any expression that evaluates to a value of the same data type as the variable. Example — assignments Counter © 0 Counter © Counter +1 TotalToPay © NumberOfiours * HourlyRate Arrays Declaring arrays (8.2.1) ‘Arrays are fixed-length structures of elements of identical data type, accessible by consecutive index numbers, It is good practice to explicitly state what the lower bound of the array (ie. the index of the first element) is because this defaults to either 0 or Vin different systems. Generally, a lower bound of 1 will be used Square brackets are used to indicate the array indices. 1D and 2D arrays are declared as follows (where 1, 11, 12 are lower bounds and u, ui, w2 are upper bounes): DECLARE : ARRAY(:] OF DECLARE : ARRAY(:
    , <12>:] OF Example ~array declaration DECLARE StudentNames : ARRAY(1:30] OF STRING DECLARE NoughtsAndCrosses : ARRAY[1:3, 1:3] OF CHAR Using arrays (8.2.1) In the main pseudocode statements, only one index value is used for each dimension in the square brackets Example — using arrays StudentNames [1] © "Ali" NoughtsAndCrosses [2,3] «= 'X" StudentNames(n+1] € StudentNames(n] Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus fr 2023, 2024 and 2025. Details of the assessment ‘An appropriate loop structure is used to assign the elements individually Example —assigning a group of array elements FOR Index © 1 TO 30 StudentNames [Index] <= "" NEXT Index Common operations Input and output (8.1.3) Values are input using the INPUT command as follows: INPUT ‘The identifier should be a variable (that may be an individual element of a data structure such as an array). Values are output using the OUTPUT command as follows: OUTPUT Several values, separated by commas, can be output using the same command Examples INPUT and OUTPUT statements INPUT Answer OUTPUT Score OUTPUT "You have ", Lives, " lives left" Arithmetic operations (8.1.4 (N)) Standard arithmetic operator symbols are used + addition = subtraction * multiplication division raised to the power of Examples—arithmetic operations Answer © Score * 100 / MaxMark Answer © Pi * Radius * 2 Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus fr 2023, 2024 and 2025. Details of the assessment ‘The integer division operators MOD and DIV can also be used. DIV(, ) Returns the quotient of icient i fieri divided by identi ier2 with the fractional part discarded MoD(, ) Returns the remainder of ident‘ fier! divided by identifier? ‘The identifiers are of data type integer. Examples - MOD and DIV DIv(10, 3) returns 3 MoD(10, 3) returns 1 Multiplication and division have higher precedence over addition and subtraction (this is the normal mathematical convention). However, it is ood practice to make the order of operations in complex expressions explicit by using parentheses, Logical operators (8.1.4 (f)) ‘The following symbols are used for logical operators: equal to less than <= less than or equal to greater than >= greater than or equal to <> not equalto ‘The result of these operations is always of data type BOOLEAN, In complex expressions, it is advisable to use parentheses to make the order of operations explicit. Boolean operators (8.1.4 (f)) ‘The only Boolean operators used are AND, OR and NO”. The operands and results of these operations are always of data type BOOLEAN In complex expressions, it is advisable to use parentheses to make the order of operations explicit Examples - Boolean operations IF Answer < 0 OR Answer > 100 THEN Correct © FALSE ELSE Correct © TRUE ENDIF Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus fr 2023, 2024 and 2025. Details ofthe assessment String operations (8.1.4 (e)) LENGTH () Returns the integer value representing the length of string The identifier should be of datatype string, LCASE () Returns the string/character with all characters in lower case, The identifier should be of data type string or char. UCASE () Returns the string/character with all characters in upper case. The identifier should be of data type string or char. SUBSTRING (, , ) Returns a string of length Length starting at position start. The identifier should be of data type string, length and start should be positive and data type integer. Generally a start position of 1 is the first character in the string Example - string operations LENGTH ("Happy Days") willreturn 10 TCASE ("W") willretum 'w! UCASE ("Happy") will return "#APPY" SUBSTRING ("Happy Days", 1, 5) willreturn "Happy" Other library routines (8.1.7) ROUND (, ) Returns the value of the identifier rounded to places number of decimal places ‘The identifier should be of data type real, places should be data type integer. RANDOW.() Returns a random number between 0 and 1 inclusive. Example - ROUND and RANDOM Value © ROUND (RANDOM() * 6, 0) // returns a whole number between 0 and 6 Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus fr 2023, 2024 and 2025. Details of the assessment Selection LB statements (8.1.4 (b) and 8.1.5) LF statements may or may not have an ELSE clause TF statements without an BLSE clause are written as follows: IF THEN ENDIF IF statements with an ELSE clause are written as follows: IP THEN ELSE ENDIF Note that the THEN and 5LS= clauses are only indented by two spaces. (They are, in a sense, a continuation of the LIF statement rather than separate statements) When IF statements are nested, the nesting should continue the indentation of two spaces. Example - nested IF statements IF ChallengerScore > ChampionScore THEN IF ChallengerScore > Highestscore ‘THEN OUTPUT ChallengerName, " is champion and highest scorer" ELSE OUTPUT PlayeriName, " is the new champion" ENDIF ELSE OUTPUT ChampionName, " is still the champion" IF ChampionScore > HighestScore THEN OUTPUT ChampionName, " is also the highest scorer" ENDIF ENDIF Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Details of the assessment CASE statements (8.1.4 (b)) CASE statements allow one out of several branches of code to be executed, depending on the value of a variable. CASE statements are written as follows: CASE OF : : ENDCASE ‘An OTHERWISE clause can be the last case CASE OF : : OTHERWISE ENDCASE itis best practice to keep the branches to single statements as this makes the pseudocode more readable. Similarly, single values should be used for each case. Ifthe cases are more complex, the use of an IF statement, rather than a CASE statement, should be considered Each case clause is indented by two spaces. They can be considered as continuations of the CASE statement rather than new statements Note that the case clauses are tested in sequence. When a case that applies is found, its statement is executed, and the CASE statement is complete. Control is passed to the statement after the EIVDCASE. Any remaining cases are not tested, If present, an OTHERWISH clause must be the last case. ts statement will be executed if none of the preceding ‘cases apply. Example —formatted CASE statement INPUT Move CASE OF Move ‘WI: Position © Position ~ 10 "EI: Position © Position + 10 ‘Al: Position € Position — 1 'D! : Position € Position + 1 OTHERWISE OUTPUT "Beep" ENDCASE Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Details of the assessment Iteration Count-controlled (0R) loops (8.1.4 (<)) Count-controlled loops are written as follows: FOR © TO NEXT ‘The identifier must be a variable of data type INTEGER, and the values should be expressions that evaluate to integers, ‘The variable is assigned each of the integer values from va uel to value2 inclusive, running the statements inside the FOR loop after each assignment. value? = value? the statements will be executed once, and if valuel > value? the statements will not be executed. ‘An increment can be specified as follows FOR 10 STEP NEXT ‘The increment must be an expression that evaluates to an integer. In this case the lent i fer will be assigned the values from value! in successive increments of increment untilit reaches vaiue2.Ifit goes past value2, the loop terminates. The increment can be negative Example -nested FOR loops Total <0 FOR Row © 1 TO MaxRow RowTotal « 0 FOR Column € 1 TO 10 RowZotal « RowTotal + Amount (Row, Column) NEXT Column OUTPUT "Total for Row Total © Total + Row’ Row, "is ", RowTotal otal, NEXT Row OUTPUT "The grand total is ", Total Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus fr 2023, 2024 and 2025. Details of the assessment Post-condition (REPEAT) loops (8.1.4 (<)) Post-condition loops are written as follows: REPEAT UNTIL ‘The condition must be an expression that evaluates to a Boolean, The statements in the loop will be executed at least once. The condition i tested after the statements are executed and if it evaluates to TRUE the loop terminates, otherwise the statements are executed again. Example REPEAT UNTIE statement REPEAT. OUTPUT "Please enter the password" INPUT Password UNTIL Password = "Secret" Pre-condition (W131LE) loops (8.1.4 ()) Pre-condition loops are written as follows WHILE 90 ENDAHILE The condition must be an expression that evaluates to a Boolean. The condition is tested before the statements, and the statements will only be executed if the condition evaluates to TRUE. After the statements have been ‘executed the condition is tested again. The loop terminates when the condition evaluates to FALSE. The statements will not be executed if, on the first test, the condition evaluates to FALSE, Example - @HILE loop WEILE Number > 9 DO Number © Number - 9 ENDWHILE Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Details ofthe assessment Procedures and functions Procedures and functions are defined at the start of the code. Defining and calling procedures (8.1.6 (b)) A procedure with no parameters is defined as follows PROCEDURE ENDPROCEDURE ‘A procedure with parameters is defined as follows: amt. PROCEDURE (

    , :...) BNDPROCEDURE The is the identifier used to call the procedure, Where used, paraml, param?, ete are identifiers for the parameters of the procedure. These will be used as variables in the statements of the procedure. Procedures should be called as follows: CALL CALL (Valuel, Value2 ‘These calls are complete program statements When parameters are used, Valuel, Value2 procedure. must be of the correct data type asin the definition of the When the procedure is called, control is passed to the procedure. If there are any parameters, these are substituted by their values, and the statements in the procedure are executed. Controls then returned to the line that follows the procedure call Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Details of the assessment Example —use of procedures with and without parameters PROCEDURE DefaultZine CALL LINE (60) ENDPROCEDURE PROCEDURE Line(Size : INTEGER) DECLARE Length : INTEGER FOR Length € 1 70 Size ourpur '-" NEXT Length ENDPROCEDURE IP MySize = Default THEN CALL DefaultLine ELSE CALL Line (MySize) ENDIF Defining and calling functions (8.1.6 (b)) Functions operate in a similar way to procedures, except that in addition they return a single value to the point at which they are called. Their definition includes the data type of the value returned. ‘Afunction with no parameters is defined as follows: FUNCTION RETURNS ENDFUNCTION ‘Afunction with parameters is defined as follows: FUNCTION (: ype>, :...) RETURNS

    You might also like