2025 Pearson Edexcel GCSE Computer Science Paper 1 and Mark Scheme Combined (1CP2/01: Principles of Computer Science)
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2025 Pearson Edexcel GCSE Computer Science Paper 1 and Mark Scheme Combined (1CP2/01: Principles of Computer Science)
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2025 Pearson Edexcel GCSE Computer Science Paper 1 and Mark Scheme Combined (1CP2/01: Principles of Computer Science)

Paper 1 is the Principles of Computer Science component of the Pearson Edexcel GCSE Computer Science qualification (1CP2/01). This paper assesses students’ knowledge and understanding of core computer science concepts, including systems, data, hardware, software, and computational theory.

It complements Paper 2 (1CP2/02: Application of Computational Thinking) and forms 50% of the total GCSE Computer Science grade.


What the Paper Covers

Paper 1 focuses on the following areas:

💾 Computer Systems

  • Hardware components and their functions

  • Software types and uses

  • Input, output, and storage devices

🧮 Data Representation

  • Binary, hexadecimal, and character encoding (ASCII/Unicode)

  • Number systems, units of data, and conversions

  • Data storage, compression, and representation

🔐 Networks and Cyber Security

  • Network types, topologies, and protocols

  • Internet, intranet, and cloud computing

  • Cybersecurity threats and protective measures

⚙️ Computational Theory

  • Algorithms, flowcharts, and pseudocode basics

  • Logic gates and Boolean algebra

  • Programming constructs and computational thinking foundations

📊 Ethics and Impacts

  • Legal, ethical, and environmental considerations of computing

  • Social and economic impacts of technology


Structure of the Paper

  • Multiple-choice questions to assess knowledge

  • Short-answer questions requiring explanation of concepts

  • Scenario-based questions testing application and understanding

  • Extended-response questions for analysis and evaluation of concepts

The paper assesses the following skills:

  • AO1 – Knowledge and understanding of computer science principles

  • AO2 – Application of knowledge to scenarios and problem-solving

  • AO3 – Analysis and evaluation of systems, solutions, and impacts


Mark Scheme (Included in the Combined Document)

The combined question paper + mark scheme includes:

  • Correct answers for multiple-choice and short-answer questions

  • Model responses and guidance for scenario-based and extended questions

  • Allocation of marks for knowledge, application, and evaluation

  • Examiner notes ensuring consistent and fair marking

The mark scheme emphasizes clarity, accuracy, and the correct use of computer science terminology.