ICT & Computing

ICT & Computing

KS 3
About the course
The curriculum at Key Stage 3 aims to develop students’ proficiency with the use of ICT. An understanding of appropriate software selection, and the skills needed to complete tasks is a major focus.
What they will learn
Students will study a variety of topics, covering core ICT and Computing units in preparation for GCSE ICT. Year 7, 8, 9 are taught:

• Using ICT
• Spreadsheets and modelling
• Game making (programming)
• Web design
• Image manipulation (Photoshop)
• Project management and problem solving

How it will be assessed
Each unit is assessed continuously through targeted questioning and the assessment of the end products that students will be produce.

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KS 4
Certificate in Digital Applications (Pearson Edexcel)
About the course
An applied course that covers two years where students will get the skills to allow them to develop web products, digital artwork and images.

What they will learn
In ICT this year, you will learn a variety of skills to prepare you for an increasingly digital and online world. The skills that will be taught include:

• Designing for a specific audience and purpose
• Structuring and designing a website
• Developing a website including the use of HTML code
• Drawing using 2D and 3D software
• Vector and bitmap image editing
• Testing and evaluating your products
• Showcasing products in an e-portfolio

How it will be assessed
Pupils sit a practical computer-based exam and complete a controlled assessment project.

• The unit 1 developing web products practical exam is worth 25% of the GCSE, and is 2 hours and 30 minutes long.
• The unit 3 artwork and imaging is a controlled assessment (coursework) project. This is valued at 75% of the GCSE.

 

GCSE Computer Science (OCR)
About the Course
It’s engaging and fun. This course gives students the opportunity to discover how computer technology works and to take a look at what goes on ‘behind the scenes’. Through the introduction of programming, it helps them expand their problem-solving skills. For many, it will be a fun and interesting way to develop these transferable skills, which can be applied to further learning and everyday life.
What they will Learn

• Develop their understanding of the fundamental hardware of a computer system, common types of software and simple logic
• Acquire the skills to write simple computer programs
• Look at the development of computer technology and the effects it has had.

How it will be assessed

Pupils sit two theory exams and complete a controlled assessment project.

• Computer systems- This is assessed by a written exam paper, which has a mixture of short- and long answer questions on Von Neumann Architecture, memory, storage, networks, security software, ethical, legal, cultural and environmental issues. It is worth 40% of the GCSE and is 1 hour and 30 minutes long.
• Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming- This is assessed by a written exam paper based on many of the concepts covered in practical programming lessons. Additionally, students will be tested on their understanding and application of  algorithms, logic and data representation. Some questions require students to write program code. It is worth 40% of the GCSE and is 1 hour and 30 minutes long.
• Programming project. Students create solutions to computing tasks chosen from a set of options supplied by OCR (controlled assessment). This is worth 20% of the GCSE.

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KS 5

A Level Computing (OCR)

About the Course

A level Computer Science is a qualification that is relevant to the modern and changing world of computing. It is a two year course that has exams and coursework to be completed at the end of year 13.

What they will learn

Computer science:

• Has a focus on programming, building on our GCSE Computing and emphasise the importance of computational thinking as a discipline.
• Has an expanded maths focus, much of which will be embedded within the course.
• Puts computational thinking at its core, helping students to develop the skills to solve problems, design systems and understand human and machine intelligence.
• Allows student to apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real world systems in an exciting and engaging manner.
• Gives students a clear progression into higher education, as the course was designed after consultation with members of BCS, CAS and top universities.

How they will be assessed

All assessment takes place at the end of year 13. There are 3 assessments as follows

• Computer systems - 140 marks - 2 hours and 30 minutes written paper
• Algorithms and programming – 140 marks - 2 hours and 30 minutes written paper
• Programming project - 70 marks - Coursework

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BTEC L3 IT (Edexcel)

- Subsidiary Diploma (1 A level equivalent)

- Diploma (2 A Level Equivalent)

About the course

The BTEC Level 3 in IT aims to ensure students are occupationally ready to take up employment in the IT at the appropriate level. This can follow either directly after achieving the qualification, or via the stepping stone of Higher Education (HE) in university or college.

What they will learn

By studying a BTEC National, learners develop knowledge, understanding and skills required by the sector, including essential employability skills, and apply them in real work contexts. Learners can operate at a standard that can reasonably be expected of an 18 year old in full-time education. Learners study topics that may include: Computer Systems, Database Design, Computer Animation, Digital Graphics, Spreadsheet Modelling, Computer Game Design, Installing and Upgrading Software, Technical Support and Troubleshooting.

How will it be assessed?

Learners are assessed internally through coursework based units that are equally weighted. There are 6 units for the Subsidiary Diploma and 12 units for the Diploma, both over two years.  Learners are required to evidence their knowledge, understanding and skills through a variety of ways including written reports, posters, presentations and observation. This is recognised by universities and allows learners to progress to further education as required.

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Level 3 – Cambridge Technical Foundation Diploma in IT

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Head of Department:

Mr Stevens

Email:
StevensL@cfbs.islington.sch.uk