AQA A level (7516-7517) resources

Change log

  • 01/09/25 – All PowerPoints remade with significant improvements to every slide.
  • 21/05/25 – SLR03 Programming paradigms
    A-Level – Object-orientated languages Activity 5 rewritten and improved for Python.
    Not uploaded yet.
  • 29/11/24 – Essential algorithms and data structures (second edition)
    Added handling an item not being in a linked list in pseudocode in the book and in the coded algorithms.
    Not uploaded yet or to Kindle Publishing.
  • 25/03/24 – Those little extras pack: 05. A level Computer Science taster lesson for KS4 – run length encoding
    Added Python examples of RLE algorithm.
  • 09/01/24 – Essential algorithms and data structures (second edition)
    Updates to coded algorithms: linked list with an array
  • 25/09/23 – SLR 08, 17, 26
    Updated cheat sheets.
  • 19/04/23 – SLR 13 – Recap Lesson (student version).pptx & SLR13 Year 13 Recap Lesson (teacher version)
    Corrected run length encoding exercise.
  • 19/10/22 – Documenting programming projects OCR H446 (non games projects).pdf Updated some of our guidance based direct feedback from OCR subject advisor.
  • 21/03/22 – SLR 02 – 03. Conversion utility program
    Python version added.
  • 13/01/22 – SLR 02 07. A-Level – Recursion Activity 2.
    New activity answer and sample program.
  • 13/01/22 – SLR 06. 10. Problem abstraction Activities and Answers
    Replacement of old activity with 1a, 1b and 1c.
  • 04/01/2022 – SLR 21 07. A-Level – Network security Activity 2.pptx
    Improved some definitions and added some more difficult examples.
  • 04/01/22 – SLR 19 01. Ethical, moral and cultural issues Activity 1.pptx, 01. Ethical, moral and cultural issues Activity 1 Answer.pptx
    Update to the URL for the main activity and minor improvements.
  • 03/01/22 – Essential algorithms and data structures (second edition)
    Most of the book has been rewritten.
  • 30/8/21 – Schemes of learning
    All calendars and schemes of learning updated.
  • 01/07/21 – Revised SLR 05 Algorithms
    Updated breadth & depth first searches and tree traversal activities.
  • 01/07/21 – Revised SLR 04 Data structures
    All activities updated with new ones added. Code examples now in Python, VB and C#.
  • 09/03/21 – Revised SLR 23 Databases
    Added some suggested additional clarity to the normalisation activities to match mark schemes.
  • 04/02/21 – Revised SLR 23 Databases
    All the resources in this SLR have been reviewed and improved including to make them more suitable for home learning. More normalisation exercises with worked examples. SQL activities with DB Browser and SQLite 3 (free to use). Examples of using SQL with Python and C#.
  • 31/8/20 – All SLR cover/assessment sheets
  • 25/08/20 – Documenting Defold programming projects OCR H446
    First edition released.
  • 25/08/2020 – Documenting programming projects OCR H446
    First edition released.

AQA A Level Computer Science

Our expertly curated AQA A Level Computer Science resources cover every essential topic, ensuring that both teachers and students can explore each concept with clarity and depth. Designed to align with the AQA syllabus, these materials provide structured guidance on key areas like programming, algorithms, data structures, and computational theory, making it easier for students to build strong foundational knowledge and practical skills. With our comprehensive notes, interactive activities, and exam-style questions, you’ll find everything you need to create engaging lessons that empower your students to succeed. Dive into the resources below, equip yourself with tools for effective teaching, and help your students prepare with confidence for their exams!

Subjects studied in our resources include:

Programming Basics & Next Steps

Start your journey with foundational programming skills through our Programming Basics resource, ideal for students who are just beginning. Once you’ve mastered the basics, progress to Programming Next Steps, where you’ll develop more advanced skills to tackle complex programming challenges.

Exploring Programming Paradigms

Gain insight into the various programming paradigms, such as procedural, object-oriented, and functional programming. Understanding these paradigms helps you select the right approach for different problems, an invaluable skill in the AQA AS and A Level Computer Science curriculum.

Mastering Data Structures

Data structures are crucial for managing and organizing data efficiently. From arrays to linked lists, our comprehensive materials cover all key data structures and teach you how to implement them effectively, preparing you for any data-related question in the AQA A Level Computer Science exam.

Abstraction and Automation

Understanding Abstraction and Automation is essential for solving complex problems with clarity and precision. These resources help you think critically about problem-solving and streamline complex tasks, two important skills emphasized in the AQA curriculum.

Regular and Context-Free Languages

Delve into the theory behind Regular and Context-Free Languages to understand how different languages structure commands and interpret data. This knowledge lays a foundation for better understanding how computer languages communicate instructions.

Aspects of Software Development

Our Aspects of Software Development resources offer insight into the software development lifecycle, from initial planning to testing and deployment. This resource equips you with practical knowledge of industry-standard practices, a valuable asset for both exams and real-world applications.

Algorithms & Classification of Algorithms

Algorithms form the backbone of computer science. With our resources on Algorithms and Classification of Algorithms, you’ll learn essential problem-solving techniques and the methods to classify and analyze different types of algorithms for efficiency.

A Model of Computation

The Model of Computation provides a framework for understanding how computers solve problems. Our resources simplify this complex topic, guiding you through the basics and helping you grasp how computation models apply to real-world scenarios.

Number Systems and Bases & Binary

Mastering Number Systems and Bases, including binary, is essential for anyone studying AQA A Level Computer Science. Our resources demystify binary and other bases, enabling you to approach related exam questions with confidence.

Programming Languages and Translators

Our section on Programming Languages and Translators covers the differences between high-level and low-level languages, as well as the translation processes. Understand compilers, interpreters, and assemblers to solidify your knowledge for the AQA AS and A Level Computer Science syllabus

Hardware and Software

Explore the fundamentals of Hardware and Software, essential components of any computer system. This resource covers everything from processors and memory to software applications, ensuring a well-rounded understanding.

Logic Gates, Boolean Algebra, & Internal Computer Architecture

Our Logic Gates and Boolean Algebra resources provide insights into the logic that powers computing operations. Additionally, with our materials on Internal Computer Architecture, you’ll gain a clearer picture of how computers process and store information.

Unlock Your Potential in AQA A Level Computer Science

With these resources, you’ll be fully equipped to tackle the AQA A Level Computer Science syllabus. Covering everything from programming fundamentals to advanced topics like Boolean algebra and internal architecture, our content is designed to help you excel in both AQA AS and A Level Computer Science.