Module One

DATE REPRESENTATION

Introduction

Welcome to your new Computer Science course.

In this first module we will look at data representation.  You will be introduced to the number systems that computers use to process data – binary, denary and hexadecimal – and how to convert between these systems.  You will also gain an understanding of how text, images and sound are converted into binary so that they can be processed by a computer. Finally you will look at how data storage is measured and how and why images and sound are compressed.  This module ends with the opportunity for you to begin learning programming skills that you will practice in each module throughout the course.

Before you start work, please make sure that you have read the Course Guide and reviewed the CAIE syllabus.  
 
Wolsey Hall courses are based on a supported self-study approach.  Our courses provide clear guidance on how to work through your coursebook and also links to supporting resources.  Your course tutor will provide feedback to help you progress by means of module assignments which you complete and submit for marking.
 
It is important that you follow our guidance on each Canvas topic page.  Our Programme of Study (PoS) shows how each topic is linked to your main coursebook and the CAIE syllabus.  It is a good idea to print this document and have it readily available in your folder/exercise book.

Topics

Please work through the following six topics in order.  Please click on each link and follow the guidance carefully.

Topic One (1.1): Binary and Hexadecimal

Topic Two (1.2): Binary Manipulation and Negative Numbers

Topic Three (1.3): Representing Text, Images and Sound

Topic Four (1.4): Measuring Data Storage

Topic Five (1.5): Data Compression

Topic Six (1.6): Programming Practice 1