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- Digital citizenship and Online safety (Including the Bebras test)
Topic 3- Clear messaging in digital media
Topic 4- Edublocks
Topic 5- History of video games
Topic 6- Kodu
Computer Science Year 8
Topic 1- Computer Systems
Topic 2- Internet Safety
Topic 3- Spreadsheets
Topic 4- Small Basic
Topic 5- Python
Topic 6- Wick animations
Computer Science Year 9
Topic 1- Computer Systems and data science
Topic 2-Cyber security
Topic 3- Using data
Topic 4- Python Extended
Topic 5- HTML Websites
Topic 6- App Development
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
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)
