O Level Computer Science Paper 2 Notes
1. Problem Solving and Algorithm Design
Problem Solving:
o Understand the problem.
o Plan the solution.
o Implement the solution using appropriate algorithms.
o Test and evaluate the solution.
Algorithms:
o Flowcharts:
Used to visually represent an algorithm using symbols like ovals
(start/end), parallelograms (input/output), rectangles (process), diamonds
(decision).
o Pseudocode:
Structured way of writing out algorithms using simple English-like syntax.
Key Concepts in Algorithm Design:
o Sequence: Instructions that are executed in the order they appear.
o Selection: Making decisions (e.g., IF statements).
o Iteration: Repeating a set of instructions (e.g., loops like FOR, WHILE).
2. Data Representation
Binary System:
o Binary Numbers: Numbers are represented in base 2 (0s and 1s).
o Converting between binary and decimal:
Decimal to Binary: Divide the number by 2 and record remainders.
Binary to Decimal: Multiply each binary digit by the corresponding power
of 2 and sum them.
Data Storage Units:
o Bit: Smallest unit of data (0 or 1).
o Byte: 8 bits.
o Kilobyte (KB): 1,024 bytes.
o Megabyte (MB): 1,024 KB.
o Gigabyte (GB): 1,024 MB.
3. Data Structures
Arrays:
o Fixed-size data structure that stores elements of the same data type.
o Access elements by index (starts at 0).
o Example: A = [10, 20, 30, 40]
Records (Structures):
o Used to store related data of different data types (e.g., a student record with name,
age, grade).
o Example: Record student {name: string, age: integer, grade:
string}
Queues:
o FIFO (First In First Out): Data is processed in the order it arrives.
o Operations: Enqueue (add data), Dequeue (remove data).
Stacks:
o LIFO (Last In First Out): Data is processed in reverse order.
o Operations: Push (add data), Pop (remove data).
4. Databases
Database Concepts:
o Tables: Organized collection of data in rows and columns.
o Fields (Attributes): Columns in a table.
o Records: Rows in a table.
Database Queries (SQL):
o SELECT: Retrieve data from the database.
o INSERT INTO: Add new records.
o UPDATE: Modify existing records.
o DELETE: Remove records.
Relationships:
o One-to-One: One record in a table corresponds to one record in another.
o One-to-Many: One record in a table corresponds to multiple records in another.
o Many-to-Many: Many records in one table correspond to many records in
another.
5. Software Development
Development Life Cycle:
1. Analysis: Understand the problem and requirements.
2. Design: Create algorithms and flowcharts.
3. Implementation: Write the code.
4. Testing: Check for errors.
5. Maintenance: Keep the software running smoothly.
Testing Types:
o Unit Testing: Testing individual components.
o Integration Testing: Testing combined components.
o System Testing: Testing the complete system.
6. Computer Hardware
CPU (Central Processing Unit):
o ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit): Performs arithmetic and logical operations.
o Control Unit: Directs the operations of the computer.
o Registers: Small, fast storage locations for temporary data.
Primary Memory (RAM): Volatile memory that stores data temporarily during
execution.
Secondary Storage:
o Hard Disk: Long-term data storage.
o Flash Drive (SSD): Solid-state drive for faster data access.
Input and Output Devices:
o Input Devices: Keyboard, mouse, scanner.
o Output Devices: Monitor, printer, speakers.
7. Networks and Communications
Network Types:
o LAN (Local Area Network): Small, local networks (e.g., within a building).
o WAN (Wide Area Network): Large networks that span long distances (e.g., the
internet).
Protocols:
o HTTP/HTTPS: For web communication.
o TCP/IP: Basic communication protocol for networks.
IP Addressing:
o Unique address assigned to devices on a network.
o IPv4: 32-bit address.
o IPv6: 128-bit address.
8. Ethical, Legal, and Social Issues
Ethics in Computing:
o Privacy: Protecting personal data.
o Security: Preventing unauthorized access to systems.
o Piracy: Illegal copying of software.
Legal Issues:
o Copyright Laws: Protect intellectual property.
o Data Protection Laws: Ensure personal data is handled properly.
Social Impact:
o Job Automation: Effect of computers on employment.
o Digital Divide: Disparities in access to technology.
These notes cover the essential topics for Paper 2, focusing on algorithms, data representation,
programming concepts, and problem-solving techniques. Make sure to practice using past papers
to apply your understanding and improve your skills!
Let me know if you need further clarification or additional topics!
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