Cambridge University Press, 2015. - 451 p.
This full-colour, illustrated textbook has been written by experienced authors specifically for the Cambridge International AS and A Level Computer Science syllabus (9608).
The presentation of the chapters in this book reflects the content of the syllabus:
The book is divided into four parts, each of which is closely matched to the corresponding part of the syllabus.
Each chapter defines a set of learning objectives which closely match the learning objectives set out in the syllabus.
The syllabus defines two assessment objectives: AOl Knowledge with understanding and A02 Skills. Papers 1 and 3 have a major focus on AOl and Papers 2 and 4 have a major focus on A02. The chapters in Parts land 3 have been written with emphasis on the promotion of knowledge and understanding. The chapters in Parts 2 and 4 have been written with an emphasis on skill development.
The chapters in Parts 1 and 3 have a narrative. We would encourage students to read the whole chapter first before going back to revisit the individual sections.
The chapters in Parts 2 and 4 contain many more tasks. We would encourage students to approach these chapters step-by-step. Whenever a task is presented, this should be carried out before progressing further.
In particular, Chapter 11 (Algorithm design and problem-solving) may be worked through in parallel with Chapter 13 (Programming and data representation). For example, Task 13.03 is based on Worked Example 11.03. After studying this worked example, students may wish to cover the first part of Chapter 13 and write the program for Task 13.03. This will give the student the opportunity to test their understanding of an algorithm by implementing it in their chosen programming language. Then further study of Chapter 11 is recommended before attempting further tasks in Chapter 13.