Computer Studies
Department Information
Key Stage 3
Throughout Key Stage 3, students compile portfolio evidence for each unit, which is assessed at regular intervals.
- Digital Safety
- Scratch Programming
- Finding Things Out
- Data and Information
- Computing Project
Year 9:
In Year 9, students will have chosen to do a Computer Studies ‘Pre-Option’. This allows students to do a one year computer studies course that is similar to the GCSE course that they may opt to do the following year. The pre-option computer studies course gives students an excellent grounding in the subject should they choose to study it the following year as a GCSE.
Year 10 (Two Year Course):
All students going into Year 10 will be able to take GCSE Computing as an option. It is a linear course which means the exam will be taken after all other elements have been completed and at the end of the course. This is a technical course which requires logical thinking and problem solving skills to be developed and enhanced and will give students knowledge in how software works and is created.
Examination Title: Computer Science (OCR J276 9-1)
Examination Papers:
- Computer systems (written exam 40% of total marks) – 1 hour 30 min.
- Computational thinking, algorithms and programming – (written exam 40% of total marks) – 1 hour 30 min.
Programming Project:
- Non-Exam assessment, total 20 hours (20% of total marks)
What will you study?
Computer Systems:
- Systems Architecture
- Memory
- Storage
- Wired and wireless networks
- Network topologies, protocols and layers
- System security
- System software
- Ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns
Computational thinking, algorithms and programming:
- Algorithms
- Programming techniques
- Producing robust programs
- Computational logic
- Translators and facilities of languages
- Data representation
Programming Project
- Programming techniques
- Analysis
- Design
- Development
- Testing and evaluation and conclusions
Progression
A GCSE in computing is designed to give students the opportunity to develop highly sought-after knowledge and skills, whether they’re for the workplace or for everyday life. It gives students a stepping stone on to Further and Higher education courses such as Software development, Games programming and careers throughout the IT industry.
Departmental Staff
Mr I Dickinson – Subject Leader of Computer Science – [email protected]
Support Your Child – Useful links and advice
http://www.thinkuknow.co.uk – this website has lots of useful information on online safety and students across all years are encouraged to view it.
www.teach-ict.com – this website gives many helpful resources and reading which would be useful at all key stages.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/subjects/z34k7ty
GCSE Bitesize – a useful website for KS4 students, this includes videos and help guides to walk students through a variety of tasks.