📚 Cambridge AS Computer Science 2026 Exam Changes and Trends | 剑桥AS计算机科学2026年考试变化与趋势
As the digital landscape evolves, Cambridge International updates its AS Computer Science syllabus to reflect the latest industry demands and educational research. For the 2026 examination series, students can expect a refined syllabus that strengthens computational thinking, cybersecurity awareness, and hands-on programming skills without altering the core structure that makes Cambridge AS Computer Science (9618) so respected. This article explores the anticipated changes, what they mean for learners, and how to prepare effectively.
随着数字景观的不断演变，剑桥国际考试委员会会定期更新其AS计算机科学教学大纲，以反映最新的行业需求和教育研究成果。针对2026年考试系列，学生可以期待一份经过精炼的大纲，它在不改变剑桥AS计算机科学（9618）备受推崇的核心结构的前提下，加强了计算思维、网络安全意识和实践编程技能。本文探讨了预期的变化、这些变化对学习者的意义，以及如何有效备考。
1. Syllabus Code and Future Scope | 课程代码与未来范围
The 2026 Cambridge AS Computer Science qualification will continue under the syllabus code 9618. Cambridge typically maintains the same code through several examination cycles while making incremental content updates. The 2026 version is expected to refine topic depth rather than introduce a drastic overhaul. This stability ensures that teachers and resources remain relevant while modernising key areas.
2026年剑桥AS计算机科学资格将继续使用大纲代码9618。剑桥通常会在多个考试周期内保持相同代码，同时进行渐进式内容更新。2026年的版本预计会精炼主题深度，而非进行彻底改革。这种稳定性确保教师和资源仍然适用，同时实现关键领域的现代化。
Learners commencing their AS journey in 2025 will sit exams in 2026, and the updated syllabus will be available for first teaching from September 2025. The core philosophy remains the same: develop an understanding of the fundamental principles of computer science and apply them to solve real-world problems using computational thinking.
2025年开始AS学习的学生将在2026年参加考试，更新后的教学大纲将从2025年9月开始首次教学。核心理念保持不变：理解计算机科学的基本原理，并运用计算思维解决现实世界问题。
A likely change is a more explicit mapping of skills to future A Level topics, making the progression from AS to A2 smoother. The 2026 syllabus will also reflect the growing importance of ethical considerations, such as the societal impact of artificial intelligence and data privacy.
一个可能的变化是更明确地将技能映射到未来的A Level主题，使从AS到A2的过渡更顺畅。2026年大纲还将反映伦理考量日益增长的重要性，如人工智能的社会影响和数据隐私。
2. Exam Structure Overview | 考试结构概览
The AS Computer Science assessment will still consist of two examination papers: Paper 1 (Theory Fundamentals) and Paper 2 (Fundamental Problem-solving and Programming Skills). Both papers are externally assessed and taken under timed conditions. There is no coursework component at AS level, which remains a strength for schools relying on standardised testing.
AS计算机科学评估仍将由两份试卷组成：试卷一（理论基础）和试卷二（基本问题解决与编程技能）。两份试卷均属于外部评估，并在规定时间内完成。AS阶段没有课程作业部分，这对依赖标准化测试的学校而言仍然是一个优点。
For 2026, the weighting of papers may see a slight adjustment. Currently, Paper 1 accounts for 50% of the AS level, and Paper 2 accounts for the other 50%. Some consultation documents suggest Cambridge might shift Paper 2 to 55% to emphasise practical coding and problem-solving, but no official confirmation exists yet. Even if the weight remains equal, the nature of questions is evolving.
到2026年，试卷的权重可能会略有调整。目前，试卷一占AS水平的50%，试卷二占另外50%。一些咨询文件表明，剑桥可能将试卷二调至55%，以强调实际编码和问题解决，但尚未得到官方确认。即使权重保持不变，问题的性质也在演变。
Below is a summary of the expected exam structure in 2026.
以下是2026年预期考试结构的摘要。
| Paper | Duration | Marks | Weight | Content |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | 1 hour 30 minutes | 75 | 50% (possibly 45%) | Theory: data representation, communication, hardware, processor fundamentals, system software, security, ethics |
| Paper 2 | 2 hours | 75 | 50% (possibly 55%) | Programming and problem-solving: algorithm design, pseudocode, Python programming, testing, data structures |
Time management will become even more critical, especially for Paper 2, which requires writing and tracing algorithms. Students should practise under timed conditions from the start of their course.
时间管理将变得更加关键，尤其是对于需要编写和追踪算法的试卷二。学生应该从课程开始就练习计时作答。
3. Enhanced Emphasis on Computational Thinking | 加强计算思维的重视
Computational thinking has always been at the heart of the Cambridge Computer Science syllabus, but the 2026 update is predicted to embed it more deeply across both papers. Questions will require learners to decompose problems, recognise patterns, abstract essential details, and design step-by-step algorithms—not just in the programming paper but also in theory contexts.
计算思维一直是剑桥计算机科学大纲的核心，但预计2026年的更新将使其更深入地融入两张试卷。题目将要求学习者分解问题、识别模式、抽象关键细节并设计逐步算法——不仅在编程试卷中，在理论背景下也是如此。
For instance, a Paper 1 question on data security might ask candidates to propose an algorithmic workflow for detecting phishing emails, combining theoretical knowledge with logical reasoning. This approach reduces rote memorisation and rewards deep understanding.
例如，试卷一中关于数据安全的问题可能要求考生提出检测钓鱼邮件的算法工作流，这结合了理论知识与逻辑推理。这种方法减少了死记硬背，奖励深刻的理解。
To prepare, students should regularly practise writing pseudocode solutions for everyday scenarios—such as sorting library books, managing a queue at a cafeteria, or encrypting a short message. This habit builds the mental muscles needed for agile problem-solving.
为了准备，学生应定期练习为日常场景编写伪代码解决方案——例如整理图书馆书籍、管理食堂排队或加密短消息。这一习惯能培养敏捷解决问题所需的思维肌肉。
4. New Topics: Artificial Intelligence and Ethics | 新增主题：人工智能与伦理
One of the most talked-about changes for 2026 is the introduction of foundational artificial intelligence concepts. While full machine learning algorithms remain beyond the scope of AS, learners will become familiar with basic AI terminology, the distinction between narrow AI and general AI, and simple rule-based expert systems.
2026年最受关注的变化之一是引入基础人工智能概念。尽管完整的机器学习算法仍超出AS的范围，但学习者将熟悉基本的人工智能术语、弱人工智能与通用人工智能的区别，以及简单的基于规则的专家系统。
An example of a low-stakes AI question might be: 'A chatbot uses a decision tree to answer customer queries. Describe how the decision tree processes input and produces an output.' Students would need to outline conditional branching without writing complex code.
一道简单的人工智能题目示例是：'一个聊天机器人使用决策树回答客户查询。描述决策树如何处理输入并产生输出。'学生需要概述条件分支，而无需编写复杂代码。
Ethical considerations will also expand beyond the current data privacy and hacking topics. The 2026 syllabus will likely discuss algorithmic bias, facial recognition controversies, and the environmental impact of large-scale computing (green IT). This reflects the Cambridge learner attribute of being responsible and reflective.
伦理考量也将从当前的数据隐私和黑客话题扩展。2026年大纲可能讨论算法偏见、面部识别争议以及大规模计算的环境影响（绿色IT）。这反映了剑桥学习者负责任和善于反思的特质。
Teachers are encouraged to incorporate case studies, such as biased hiring algorithms or the energy consumption of cryptocurrency mining, to make ethics tangible. Exam questions may ask students to evaluate the implications of technology on society or suggest safeguards.
鼓励教师融入案例研究，例如有偏见的招聘算法或加密货币挖矿的能源消耗，以使伦理更加具体。考试题目可能要求学生评估技术对社会的影响或提出保障措施。
5. Strengthened Cybersecurity Content | 加强网络安全内容
Cybersecurity has been a part of the Cambridge syllabus for some time, but 2026 will see a deeper and more practical treatment. The theory paper will go beyond defining malware, phishing, and firewalls. Candidates will be expected to understand advanced threats like ransomware, zero-day vulnerabilities, and social engineering techniques in greater detail.
网络安全作为剑桥大纲的一部分已有一段时间，但2026年将迎来更深入、更实用的处理。理论试卷将超越对恶意软件、钓鱼和防火墙的定义。考生需要更详细地理解勒索软件、零日漏洞和社会工程学技术等高级威胁。
Additionally, the concept of defence in depth and the use of penetration testing (ethical hacking) may appear. Students should know the difference between black-box, white-box, and grey-box testing, and be able to discuss why organisations conduct regular security audits.
此外，纵深防御的概念和渗透测试（道德黑客）的使用可能出现。学生应了解黑盒、白盒和灰盒测试的区别，并能讨论组织为何定期进行安全审计。
Encryption and hashing will also receive more focus. Pupils might be asked to compare symmetric and asymmetric encryption, or to explain how a hashing algorithm verifies data integrity without storing passwords in plaintext. A typical question could involve a simple XOR cipher or a Caesar shift, with mathematical steps shown using Unicode characters like '⊕' and 'mod'.
加密和哈希也将得到更多关注。学生可能被要求比较对称和非对称加密，或解释哈希算法如何在不以明文存储密码的情况下验证数据完整性。典型问题可能涉及简单的异或加密或凯撒移位，并展示使用 Unicode 字符（如'⊕'和'mod'）的数学步骤。
This shift means students must not only memorise definitions but also apply security principles in scenario-based questions, linking theory to practical digital safety.
这一转变意味着学生不仅需要记忆定义，还需要在基于场景的问题中应用安全原则，将理论与实际数字安全联系起来。
6. Programming Language Requirements | 编程语言要求
Cambridge AS Computer Science will continue to allow centres to choose from three high-level programming languages: Python, Java, and Visual Basic. However, Python is overwhelmingly the most popular choice due to its readability and extensive support. The 2026 syllabus does not mandate a single language, but the exam questions (especially pseudocode) will be closer to Python syntax.
剑桥AS计算机科学将继续允许中心从三种高级编程语言中选择：Python、Java 和 Visual Basic。然而，Python 因其可读性和广泛支持而成为绝大多数人的选择。2026年大纲不强制要求单一语言，但考试题目（尤其是伪代码）将更接近 Python 语法。
The recommended pseudocode style will adopt conventions that resemble Python, such as using 'and', 'or', 'not' instead of '&&', '||', '!', and employing indentation for block structures. Candidates must be comfortable reading and writing in this pseudocode because Paper 2 includes questions that require writing algorithms by hand in the answer booklet.
推荐的伪代码风格将采用类似 Python 的约定，例如使用'and'、'or'、'not'而不是'&&'、'||'、'!'，并使用缩进表示块结构。考生必须能熟练读写这种伪代码，因为试卷二包含需要在答题册上手写算法的问题。
New to 2026 may be a stronger expectation to work with file handling and exception handling in pseudocode or programming scenarios. For example, a question might present a scenario where a program reads data from a text file and must handle potential errors such as missing files or invalid records. The concept of try-except (or equivalent) is expected to be introduced at AS level.
2026年的新变化可能包括更强烈地期望在伪代码或编程场景中处理文件操作和异常处理。例如，题目可能给出一个场景，程序从文本文件读取数据，必须处理潜在错误，如文件丢失或无效记录。预计会在AS阶段引入 try-except（或等效）的概念。
To succeed, learners should code regularly, at least three times a week, using an integrated development environment (IDE) that gives instant feedback. They should also practise converting Python code to pseudocode and vice versa, ensuring they grasp algorithmic logic rather than just language syntax.
为了成功，学习者应定期编码，至少每周三次，使用能提供即时反馈的集成开发环境（IDE）。他们还应练习将 Python 代码转换为伪代码，反之亦然，确保掌握算法逻辑而不仅仅是语言语法。
7. Assessment Objectives and Mark Distribution | 评估目标与分值分布
Cambridge categorises exam questions under three Assessment Objectives (AOs). AO1 assesses knowledge and understanding, AO2 focuses on application, and AO3 targets analysis, evaluation, and creation. In 2026, the balance may shift to increase AO3 weighting, reflecting a global trend towards higher-order thinking skills.
剑桥将考试问题分为三个评估目标（AOs）。AO1 评估知识与理解，AO2 重点关注应用，AO3 针对分析、评估与创造。到2026年，平衡可能向增加 AO3 权重倾斜，反映了全球范围内对高阶思维技能的趋势。
The current AS level allocates roughly 30% to AO1, 40% to AO2, and 30% to AO3. The expected adjustment could push AO3 to 35%, with AO1 dropping to 25%. This means more marks will come from questions that ask 'evaluate the effectiveness of...', 'compare and contrast...', or 'design a solution to...'.
当前的AS水平大约将30%分配给AO1，40%分配给AO2，30%分配给AO3。预期的调整可能将AO3推至35%，而AO1降至25%。这意味着更多的分值将来自要求'评估...的有效性'、'比较与对比...'或'设计一个...的解决方案'的问题。
For Paper 2, the AO3 increase is particularly noticeable. Students must not only produce correct code but also justify their choice of data structure, explain complexity using Big O notation (in simple terms), and suggest test strategies. A typical mark scheme will reward clear logical reasoning even if the final answer contains minor syntactical errors—provided the underlined pseudocode is understandable.
对于试卷二，AO3的增加尤为明显。学生不仅要生成正确的代码，还要证明其数据结构选择的合理性，用大O记号（简单术语）解释复杂度，并提出测试策略。典型的评分标准会奖励清晰的逻辑推理，即使最终答案包含轻微语法错误——只要底层伪代码可理解。
Revision plans should therefore include plenty of 'explain why' and 'suggest improvements' tasks, not just 'write the code'. Peer discussion and code reviews are excellent ways to develop evaluative skills.
因此，复习计划应包括大量的'解释原因'和'建议改进'任务，而不仅仅是'编写代码'。同伴讨论和代码审查是培养评估技能的优秀方式。
8. Data Representation and Binary Logic Updates | 数据表示与二进制逻辑更新
Data representation remains a cornerstone of Paper 1. In 2026, the syllabus will likely refine binary, denary, hexadecimal, and binary-coded decimal (BCD) conversion requirements, but with more emphasis on practical applications such as floating-point representation and normalisation for real numbers.
数据表示仍是试卷一的基石。在2026年，大纲可能会精炼二进制、十进制、十六进制和二进制编码十进制（BCD）的转换要求，但会更加重视实际应用，如实数的浮点表示和规格化。
For instance, they might be asked to normalise the binary number 0110.101₂ to the form 0.110101 × 2³. This requires understanding mantissa and exponent and showing steps clearly.
学生可以预期涉及将十进制分数转换为二进制（使用定点表示）然后对其进行规格化的问题。例如，他们可能被要求将二进制数 0110.101₂ 规格化为 0.110101 × 2³ 的形式。这需要理解尾数和阶码，并清晰展示步骤。
Logic gate simplification using Boolean algebra and Karnaugh maps (K-maps) will be practised further. While K-maps for 3 variables are typical at AS, 4-variable K-maps may be introduced for high achievers. Students should be adept at simplifying expressions such as A·B + A·¬B to A, using laws like distribution and complement.
使用布尔代数和卡诺图（K-map）简化逻辑门将得到进一步练习。虽然3变量卡诺图在AS阶段是典型的，但可能为成绩优异者引入4变量卡诺图。学生应熟练使用分配律和互补律等定律，将表达式如 A·B + A·¬B 简化为 A。
Below is an example of a simple truth table that might appear in an exam question.
以下是一个可能在考试题目中出现的简单真值表示例。
| A | B | A XOR B |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 0 | 1 | 1 |
| 1 | 0 | 1 |
| 1 | 1 | 0 |
Understanding such logic is fundamental for hardware and processor design questions, which also see refinements in the 2026 syllabus, such as the role of flip-flops in memory units.
理解此类逻辑对于硬件和处理器设计问题至关重要，这些问题在2026年大纲中也有精炼，例如触发器在内存单元中的作用。
9. Supporting Resources and Digital Tools | 支持资源与数字工具
With the 2026 syllabus refresh, Cambridge will release updated teacher support materials, including schemes of work, example candidate responses, and new specimen papers. These resources will be available on the School Support Hub and are essential for aligning teaching with examiner expectations.
随着2026年大纲的更新，剑桥将发布更新的教师支持材料，包括工作方案、考生范例回答和新样卷。这些资源将在学校支持中心提供，对于使教学与考官期望保持一致至关重要。
Digital tools are increasingly integrated into learning. The syllabus encourages the use of IDEs, collaborative coding platforms, and simple logic circuit simulators. While the exam remains pen-and-paper, practising with tools like Logisim for logic gates or an online Python debugger deepens conceptual understanding.
数字工具日益融入学习。大纲鼓励使用IDE、协作编码平台和简单的逻辑电路模拟器。虽然考试仍然是纸笔形式，但使用诸如 Logisim 进行逻辑门练习或在线 Python 调试器等工具进行实践，可以加深概念理解。
Cambridge also provides a pseudocode guide that defines the syntax style students must follow. The 2026 version of this guide will include more worked examples, particularly for file handling and searching/sorting algorithms. Learners should download it from the official site and keep it handy during all programming practice.
剑桥还提供了一份伪代码指南，定义了学生必须遵循的语法风格。该指南的2026年版将包含更多范例，特别是关于文件处理和搜索/排序算法的范例。学习者应从官方网站下载该指南，并在所有编程练习中随手查阅。
Textbooks endorsed by Cambridge will be updated to match the 2026 content, but the core texts remain valuable. Online platforms such as TutorHao offer supplementary revision playlists, past paper walkthroughs, and exam-technique webinars tailored specifically to the new trends.
剑桥官方认可的教科书将更新以匹配2026年内容，但核心教材仍然有价值。诸如 TutorHao 的在线平台提供补充复习播放列表、历年试卷讲解和专门针对新趋势的考试技巧网络研讨会。
10. Study Strategies for the 2026 Examination | 2026年考试学习策略
Preparing for the 2026 AS Computer Science exam requires a hybrid approach: solid theoretical understanding paired with consistent coding practice. Past papers remain the best revision tool, but students should note that pre-2026 papers do not reflect the new AI or enhanced cybersecurity topics. Therefore, they must supplement past paper practice with updated topic-specific worksheets.
准备2026年AS计算机科学考试需要一种混合方法：扎实的理论理解加上持续的编码练习。历年试卷仍然是最好的复习工具，但学生应注意，2026年之前的试卷并未反映新的人工智能或加强的网络安全主题。因此，他们必须用更新的专题练习表来补充历年试卷的练习。
A recommended weekly study plan might allocate three hours to theory (reading, mind maps, flashcards for key terms like 'cache memory' or 'half adder') and four hours to hands-on programming and algorithm tracing. Within the programming time, half should be spent writing original code to solve novel problems, not just re-typing textbook examples.
推荐的每周学习计划可以分配三个小时用于理论学习（阅读、思维导图、像“缓存内存”或“半加器”等关键术语的闪卡），四个小时用于动手编程和算法追踪。在编程时间内，一半应用于编写原创代码以解决新问题，而不仅仅是重新输入教科书示例。
Peer teaching is highly effective. Explaining concepts like recursion or the fetch-decode-execute cycle to a classmate reinforces memory. Setting up a weekly 30-minute discussion group where members take turns teaching a topic can boost confidence and expose gaps in understanding.
同伴教学非常有效。向同学解释递归或取指-解码-执行周期等概念能够强化记忆。建立一个每周30分钟的讨论小组，成员轮流教授一个主题，可以增强信心并暴露理解上的空白。
Examination technique deserves dedicated attention. Many marks are lost because students misread command words. 'State' requires a short factual answer, whereas 'Describe' needs a detailed account, and 'Evaluate' demands balanced judgement. The 2026 mark schemes will be stricter about rewarding only what the question asks, so practice underlining key terms in every question before answering.
考试技巧值得专门关注。许多分数因学生误读指令词而丢失。'State'要求简短的事实回答，而'Describe'需要详细的说明，'Evaluate'则要求平衡的判断。2026年的评分方案将更严格地仅奖励问题所要求的内容，因此在回答前练习在每个问题中划出关键术语。
11. Predicted Trends and Future Directions | 预测趋势与未来方向
Looking beyond 2026, the AS Computer Science syllabus is likely to continue evolving to reflect digital society. The integration of AI will deepen, and by 2028, we might see simple neural network concepts or basic data science skills (such as interpreting a small dataset using Python libraries) introduced at AS. Cybersecurity will remain a priority as threats become more sophisticated.
展望2026年以后，AS计算机科学大纲可能会继续演变以反映数字社会。人工智能的整合将加深，到2028年，我们可能会看到简单的神经网络概念或基础的数据科学技能（如使用Python库解释小型数据集）被引入AS阶段。网络安全仍将是首要任务，因为威胁变得越来越复杂。
The shift towards problem-based learning (PBL) is evident. Cambridge has already started including scenario-based items in recent exams, and this trend will intensify. Instead of asking 'What is a stack?', a 2026 question might present a text editor undo feature and ask students to explain how a stack data structure enables the undo operation and propose a memory-efficient implementation.
向基于问题的学习（PBL）的转变显而易见。剑桥已经在最近的考试中开始包含基于场景的题目，这一趋势将会加剧。2026年的问题可能不再是“什么是栈？”，而是呈现一个文本编辑器的撤销功能，要求学生解释栈数据结构如何实现
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