Computing A' level

The study area AM (Advanced) Computing is informed by the National Curriculum Framework (NCF).

This MATSEC Advanced-level Computing Syllabus has been prepared and compiled in line with previous syllabi, latest computing and computing-related developments and space for future syllabi to add and enhance the contents. In line with the objectives clearly set in the previous version of this syllabus, the programming language that is to be used throughout this syllabus is to be “Java”. This programming language will be used in every aspect of this syllabus wherever the use of a programming language is required. 

It is also stressed that all theoretical treatment of topics should be adequately accompanied by practical (real-world) examples whenever and wherever applicable. Candidates are expected to gain the most benefit from this subject having completed their SEC level Computing.

At the end of the programme, the student will be able to: 

• Understand the basics behind binary logic. • Make use, understand and draw truth tables for logic expressions. • Draw logic circuits from Boolean expressions. • Apply fundamental Boolean algebra rules and/or Karnaugh maps to simplify simple Boolean expressions. • Understand the use of basic logic theorems to build practical and fundamental logic circuitry. • Implement a logic circuit using only NAND or NOR gates
• Gain a good understanding of all the components making up the computer system. • Understand the function of the different components making up the system. • Have a clear understanding of how the different system components are connected together and how they work to give the required output.
• Understand the general format of assembly language instructions. • Distinguish between the different types of instruction groups, instruction formats and the various addressing modes. • Understand basic assembly language programs, given an instruction set. • List some assembler functions and tools.
• Describe different operating systems and their function as well as outline their interaction. • Develop a basic understanding of how operating systems manage memory and files. • Understand how the operating system handles input and output operations.
• Understand the basics of transmission methods in communication. • Reason about the concepts behind the data transmission technology. • Have a clear understanding of protocols, IP addressing properties and differentiate between IPv4 and IPv6. • Gain a general understanding of the OSI seven-layer protocol. • Differentiate between LAN and WAN, including an in-depth understanding of the different network topologies in use. • Understand the implications of a network security breach. • Gain adequate basic knowledge in the field of data and network hardware security technologies
• Understand the structure of a formal language. • Define the syntax of a formal language using relevant tools. • Appreciate the need to define the semantics of a formal language and describe the stages of its compilation. • Differentiate between various types of language translators.
• Understand the main principles of systems analysis and design. • Develop a practical knowledge of the main stages of the systems development life cycle (SDLC), following the Waterfall methodology, including: identification of problem, feasibility study, information processing requirements, analysis, design, implementation, testing and maintenance. • Analyse a given scenario and apply the SDLC stages resulting in the definition of outcomes from each stage in the form of a milestone report.
• Identify and describe different programming paradigms including imperative, declarative, functional and object-oriented. • Have a good understanding of the fundamental concepts of object-oriented programming, including objects and classes, data encapsulation, inheritance and polymorphism. • Gain a good knowledge of the notions of class, object, attribute and operation. • Have a good knowledge of the different data types available. • Identify and have a sound understanding of the relevant programming constructs targeted at problem solving. • Select and appropriately apply standard algorithms for sorting and searching (to be implemented using pseudo-code or structured text). • Know how to make use of files as a permanent type of storage mechanism.
• Understand the basic structure, function and importance of database management systems (DBMSs) • Be able to compare different database models. • Appreciate the importance of relational databases over traditional file systems. • Understand the logical structure and design of a relational database. • Describe data models diagrammatically using Entity-Relationship (E-R) diagrams. • Normalise a relational database up to the Third Normal Form. • Apply methods and tools for database design by using currently available database packages. • Understand the purpose of a query language and be able to interpret simple SQL commands.