Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 4CP0 Syllabus Overview

The syllabus is divided into two papers:

Paper 1 – Theory (Typically 2 hours)

Paper 1 tests the student’s understanding of fundamental concepts of computer science. It includes multiple-choice, structured, and short-answer questions.

1. Data Representation

• Binary, decimal, and hexadecimal systems.
• Conversion between number systems.
• Binary addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• Representation of characters (ASCII, Unicode).
• Representation of images, sound, and instructions.
• Concept of data compression and encryption.

2. Communication and Internet Technologies

• Computer networks: LAN, WAN, PAN, MAN.
• Network topologies: star, bus, ring.
• Protocols: HTTP, FTP, SMTP, POP, IMAP.
• Wireless technologies: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, infrared.
• Internet services and uses.
• Client-server and peer-to-peer models.

3. Hardware and Software

• Input, output, storage devices.
• Types of memory: ROM, RAM, cache, virtual memory.
• CPU: ALU, control unit, registers.
• Operating systems: types and functions.
• Utility software vs application software.

4. Security

• Threats: viruses, malware, hacking, phishing.
• Security methods: authentication, encryption, firewalls, backups.

5. Algorithms and Programming

• Algorithms: flowcharts, pseudocode.
• Programming concepts: variables, constants, operators.
• Control structures: sequence, selection, iteration.
• Functions, procedures, and modular programming.
• Recursion and arrays.
• Sorting and searching algorithms (bubble sort, insertion sort, linear and binary search).

6. Databases

• Database concepts: tables, records, fields.
• Primary and foreign keys.
• Queries: SQL basics (SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE).
• Normalization basics.

7. Problem Solving

• Steps in problem-solving.
• Decomposition and abstraction.
• Testing and debugging methods.
• Understanding specification and requirements.

Paper 2 – Practical (Typically 2 hours)

Paper 2 tests the ability to apply practical skills in programming and problem-solving. Students are given tasks to implement, usually in a high-level language like Python, Java, or pseudocode.

1. Programming

• Writing programs to solve problems.
• Using variables, constants, and data types effectively.
• Implementing control structures: IF…ELSE, loops (FOR, WHILE).
• Creating functions and procedures.
• Using arrays and records (lists and dictionaries in Python).
• File handling basics: reading and writing text files.

2. Algorithm Implementation

• Translating algorithms from pseudocode or flowcharts into programs.
• Implementing searching and sorting algorithms.
• Debugging and testing programs.
• Writing modular code for readability and reuse.

3. Problem Solving in Practice

• Understanding problem statements.
• Designing solutions: flowcharts, pseudocode.
• Implementing solutions in code.
• Producing correct output for given input.
• Handling exceptions and errors.

4. Data Representation and Manipulation

• Inputting, processing, and outputting data correctly.
• Converting numbers or text as required.
• Performing calculations and data manipulations.

Key Notes

• Paper 1focuses on knowledge, understanding, and explanation.
• Paper 2focuses on practical skills and application of programming.
• Both papers complement each other; theory knowledge supports practical work.