Computing
“A computer would deserve to be called intelligent if it could deceive a human into believing that it was human” – Alan Turing
"It's better to create something that others criticise that to create nothing and criticise others" - Ricky Gervais
Computing is a compulsory subject for Years 7, 8 and 9. The programmes of study undertaken by these students have been designed to develop knowledge and skills in a variety of topics across Computer Science and Digital Literacy. These units will equip the students with the fundamental skills required in the subject should they wish to continue in Year 9 and beyond with Computer Science at KS4 and BTEC Computing at KS5.
KS3 – Computing
At KS3, pupils experience Computing lessons once a week.
Year 7
Students begin the year learning how to use Google Classroom effectively and reviewing knowledge of how to use computers safely and securely. They then move onto how to produce algorithms through the use of flow-charts and gain skills on how to create/edit images. Following on from this they will learn about computer programming using Scratch and the final projects set help students to grow far more knowledgeable of the components of a computer and clear messaging in media.
Year 8
Students will begin the year understanding the components of a computer and how a computer communicates using binary. They will then learn how to use spreadsheet software before understanding computer networks and HTML programming. During the final term they will learn how to create an app.
Year 9
Students begin the year growing far more aware of the range of careers available in the Computing industry. They then gain some computer programming skills before creating comics using Photoshop. Students are introduced to the theory of Artificial Intelligence, before learning about Cyber Security and reviewing important concepts in relation to E-Safety.
KS4 – OCR Computer Science
KS4
The GCSE in Computer Science course builds on our KS3 curriculum. Relevant to the modern, changing world of computing, it’s designed to boost computing skills essential for the 21st century.
- Computational thinking as its core, helping students to develop the skills to solve problems, design systems and understand human and machine intelligence
- Applying the academic principles, they learn in the classroom to real-world systems in an exciting and engaging way
- Giving students a clear progression into higher education, as the course was designed after consultation with members of BCS, CAS and top universities.
This course is divided into 2 sections:
Computer Systems (paper 1 – 50%):
- Systems architecture
- Memory and storage
- Computer networks, connections and protocols
- Network security
- Systems software
- Ethical, legal, cultural and environmental impacts of digital technology
Computational thinking, algorithms and programming (paper 2 – 50%):
- Algorithms
- Programming fundamentals
- Producing robust programs
- Boolean logic
- Programming languages and Integrated Development Environments
KS5 – BTEC Computing
The content of this qualification incorporates the most knowledge and skills to enable progression to higher education. It allows students to gain fundamental knowledge and skills in computer science, which will enable students to progress to broader or more specialist study such as a degree in a computing discipline or a subject where computing-related skills and knowledge may be advantageous, such as business studies.
Unit 1: Principles of Computer Science (Written examination)
The logical and structured ways that computer systems process data to develop programs, processes and systems that solve specific problems. The features of effective computer programming are examined and paradigms are applied.
Unit 2: Fundamentals of Computer Systems (Written examination)
Students will know how and why computer components, and the data they use, perform in certain ways has a significant impact on the work of all computing professionals. Students will also understand how different parts of a system integrate facilitates accurate identification of problems.
Unit 7: IT Systems Security and Encryption (coursework)
Many organisations run complex IT networks and need them to be secure while sharing some data and keeping other data private. Students will investigate the different types of security attacks, the vulnerabilities that exist and techniques that can be used to defend the IT systems of organisations. You will also learn about the complexities of configuring and supporting networks and explore how encryption can be used to protect data.
Unit 14: Computer Games Development (coursework)
Students will investigate the technologies used in the computer gaming industry and the implications they have for users, developers and organisations. They will analyse how user needs and preferences impact on game design and how target technologies affect the design and development of a computer game. Finally, they will design, create and review a computer game to meet requirements
Subject lead - Ms L Comer (tws_admin@swale.at)