Computer Science
Key Stage 3
Our Computer Science curriculum aims to provide scholars with a comprehensive and stimulating learning experience that equips them with the necessary knowledge and skills to thrive in an ever-evolving digital world. At KS3, scholars will develop a solid foundation in computational thinking, programming concepts, and problem-solving, nurturing their ability to analyse and design solutions to real-world challenges. Through engaging and hands-on activities, they will explore topics such as algorithms, data representation, and computer networks. Building upon this foundation at KS4 and KS5, scholars will deepen their understanding of programming languages, software development, and hardware components. Emphasising creativity and innovation, the curriculum aims to foster critical thinking and instil a passion for technology, preparing scholars for further study and future careers in computer science and related fields. Moreover, we aim to instil ethical awareness and responsible digital citizenship to ensure our scholars are equipped to make positive contributions to society in the digital age.
Computer Science and ICT are taught together at Key Stage 3, and include practical elements such as; programming, image editing and game development. As well as theoretical elements to help scholars understand the key concepts and how to apply those concepts.
Students are taught to be confident and safe users or commonly used digital technology (mobile phones, social media and the internet) and know what a crucial role computer science plays in our everyday lives)
Key Stage 3 units of work include;
- Effective use of digital technology
- The use of basic office applications, such as; word processing and presentation software
- How technology impacts individuals, society and the environment
- How technology is used in the real world
- Analysis of computational problems, plan and write computer programs
Key Stage 4
The department offers two courses at Key Stage 4. Both subjects are taught throughout Key Stage 3, and have the ability to choose one area to specialise in at Key Stage 4.
BTEC Digital Informational Technology
The BTEC in Digital Information Technology gives learners the opportunity to develop sector-specific knowledge and skills in a practical learning environment.
Scholars will;
- Develop skills such as; project planning, designing and creating user interfaces, creating dashboards to present and interpret data
- Research effective ways of working in digital information technology, such as; project planning, the design process, cyber security, virtual teams, legal and ethical codes of conduct
- Develop skills on personal management and communication
- Research how user interfaces meet user needs, how organisations collect and use data to make decisions, virtual workplaces, cyber security and legal and ethical issues
The course has 3 components. 2 of which are internally assessed components, and one that is externally assessed.
Component 1 - Exploring User Interface Design Principles and Project Planning Techniques (internally assessed)
Aim: Develop their understanding of what makes an effective user interface and how to effectively manage a project. They will use this understanding to plan, design and create a user interface.
- Investigate user interface design for individuals and organisations
- Use project planning techniques to plan and design a user interface
- Develop and review a user interface.
Assessment
- internally assessed assignment(s)
- 36 points
- 30% of the total course
Component 2 - Collecting, Presenting and Interpreting Data (internally assessed)
Aim: Understand the characteristics of data and information and how they help organisations in decision making. They will use data manipulation methods to create a dashboard to present and draw conclusions from information.
- Investigate the role and impact of using data on individuals and organisations
- Create a dashboard using data manipulation tools
- Draw conclusions and review data presentation methods.
Assessment
- internally assessed assignment(s)
- 36 points
- 30% of the total course
Component 3 - Effective Digital Working Practices (externally assessed)
Aim: Explore how organisations use digital systems and the wider implications associated with their use.
- Demonstrate knowledge of facts, terms, processes and issues in relation to digital information technology
- Apply an understanding of facts, terms, processes and issues in relation to digital information technology
- Analyse, evaluate and make reasoned judgments about the use, factors and implications influencing digital information technology
- Make connections with the concepts, issues, terms and processes in digital information technology
Assessment
- written exam (synoptic external assessment): 1 hour 30 minutes
- 60 marks (48 points)
- 40% of the total course
GCSE Computer Science (Exam Board: OCR)
The OCR GCSE in Computer Science is an essential course for anyone who wants to understand the enormous importance of computing in the world, today and in the future.
The OCR GCSE in Computer Science is an essential course for anyone who wants to understand the enormous importance of computing in the world, today and in the future.
Scholars will gain an understanding of some of the most important concepts in the modern world, including algorithms, data handling, cyber security and systems architecture, as well as developing their computer programming and problem-solving skills.
The aims and objectives of this qualification are to enable scholars to:
- Understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of Computer Science, including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms, and data representation
- Analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems, including designing, writing and debugging programs
- Think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically
- Understand the components that make up digital systems, and how they communicate with one another and with other systems
- Understand the impacts of digital technology to the individual and to wider society
- Apply mathematical skills relevant to Computer Science.
Content
Component 1
Systems architecture
Memory and storage
Computer networks, connections and protocols
Network security
Systems software
Ethical, legal, cultural and environmental impacts of digital technology
Component 2
Algorithms
Programming fundamentals
Producing robust programs
Boolean logic
Programming languages and and integrated development environments
Assessment
Course Content
Component 1 – Computer Systems
Written paper: 1 hour 30 minutes
50% of total GCSE – 80 Marks
Component 2 – Computational thinking, algorithms, and programming
Written paper: 1 hour and 30 minutes
50% of total GCSE – 80 Marks
Recommended Texts
BTEC Tech Award in Digital Information Technology Student BookISBN: 9781292208374Pearson BTEC Level 1/2 Award in DIT: Component 3 TextbookISBN: 978-1910523148
Useful Links
GCSE Pod Code Academy BBC Bitesize
Curriculum Overview
computer science curriculum map 2023 2024.pdf