Computing Science

“Computer Science is no more about computers than astronomy is about telescopes.” 
EDSGER W. DIJKSTRA 

 

Curriculum Summary

We aim for students to understand to solve problems using computers (Computational thinking).
Students learn to design, write and debug simple programs, including controlling or simulating physical systems. We prepare our students to be able use a range of technology and software effectively including for collecting, analysing, evaluating and presenting data and information (Information Technology). Students learn how computer networks enable communication and online collaboration and how to use technology legally, safely, respectfully and responsibly (Digital Literacy). 

Staff

Mr B Porter - Teacher of Computing 

Mr A Sharp - Head of Department

Computing in KS3

Students have two, one hour lessons a fortnight. Key stage 3 curriculum takes an iterative approach whereby topics and the key concepts are introduced in year 8. In year 9 students revisit the topic to explore it at a greater depth. Topics students cover are as follows; Software Adaption & Tool Selection, Computational Thinking, Effective Communication, Data Manipulation & Processing and Use & Impact of Computers.

Teaching and learning in KS3

All students have two 50 minutes lessons every fortnight. These are mixed ability lessons. Lessons are conducted in specialised computer rooms where by each student have access to a computer or laptop.

Computer Science is engaging and practical, encouraging problem solving. It encourages students to develop their understanding and application of the core concepts in computer science. Students learn to analyse problems in computational terms, write and evaluate short programs. Regular activities include, individual research and writeup, paired and group work, written work and giving presentations. 

Computer Science in Year 7

Topic 1- Introduction to Microsoft 365 and how to use the systems at KLS

Topic 2- Computer Systems and the Bebras test

Topic 3- Digital Citizenship

Topic 4- Kodu

Topic 5- Edublocks

Topic 6- Digital Graphics 

Computer Science Year 8

Topic 1- Small Basic

Topic 2- Computer systems and the Bebras test

Topic 3- Computer systems continued

Topic 4- Spreadsheets suing Excel

Topic 5- Databases

Topic 6- Python basic 

Computer Science Year 9

Topic 1- Wick Animations

Topic 2- Computer Systems and the Bebras test

Topic 3- Programming with Python Extended

Topic 4- More programming

Topic 5- Gamemaker

Topic 6- Video Editing

Assessment

Students are assessed throughout each unit to gauge understanding of each unit. We have a strong understanding that CS creates real peaks and troughs in the students skills, with the students being excellent at one topic and not so good at the next, we find a line of best fit in order to fully assess them

Key Stage 3 useful links

Bebras

Edublocks

Kodu

Small Basic 

Year 10 — GCSE Computing

In KS4 students follow GCSE 9-1 Computing syllabus. The key components of OCR’s GCSE (9–1) in Computer Science are:

Component 01:

Computer systems: This component will assess:
Systems architecture
Memory and storage
Computer networks, connections and protocols
Network security
Systems software
Ethical, legal, cultural and environmental impacts of digital technology

 

Component 02:

Computational thinking, algorithms and programming: This component will assess:
Algorithms
Programming fundamentals
Producing robust programs
Boolean logic
Programming languages and Integrated Development Environments 

Assessment in KS4

With the new specification (J277) final assessment in two written paper exams. Each exam is 1 hour and 30 minutes and constitutes 50% of total GCSE. Paper one consists of multiple choice questions, short response questions and extended response questions. Paper 2 has two sections: Section A and Section B. All questions are mandatory. In Section B, questions assessing students’ ability to write or refine algorithms must be answered using either the OCR Exam Reference Language or the high-level programming language they are familiar with. 

Key Stage 4 useful links

Exam board website (specification and specimen papers)

Useful Websites

Python tutorial

Learn Python