GCSE – Data representations

Curriculum KS4 Unit

Resources

This unit allows learners to gain the understanding and skills required for the data representation sections of the GCSE computer science exam. First, learners look at binary and hexadecimal numbering systems, how they work, and how to convert between bases. Then, learners explore different coding systems and find out how text, images, and sound are represented in computers. All lessons include worksheets to allow learners to explore each topic through practical application.

Unit guide

Updated: 10 Feb 2023

Learning graph

Updated: 21 Feb 2023

Learning graph

Updated: 21 Feb 2023

Learning graph

Updated: 21 Feb 2023

Summative assessment

Updated: 10 Feb 2023

Summative assessment

Updated: 10 Feb 2023

Lessons

Lesson 1

What is representation?

Lesson 2

Number bases

Lesson 3

Binary addition

Lesson 4

Binary subtraction

Lesson 5

Binary shifts

Lesson 6

Signed binary integers

Lesson 7

Hexadecimal

Lesson 8

Representing text

Lesson 9

Unicode and file size calculation

Lesson 10

Representing bitmap images

Lesson 11

Bitmap file size calculation

Lesson 12

Representing sound

Lesson 13

Sound file size calculation

Lesson 14

Measurements of storage

Lesson 15

Lossy and lossless compression

Lesson 16

Run length encoding

Lesson 17

Huffman coding

Lesson 18

Summative assessment