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Computer Science
The Team
| Curriculum Leader | Mr Brand |
|---|---|
| Assistant Head Teacher and Computer Science Teacher | Mr Legg |
| Teacher of STEM | Mr Garlick |
What is Computer Science and why is it important?
Computer Science is the study of computers, how they are made, controlled, and used in the modern world. Through the study of Computer Science students learn essential life skills in how to innovate, solve problems, and find efficiencies in daily tasks. All students should understand how technology is used to collaborate, benefit society and to be responsible digital citizens.
What do students learn in Computer Science?
- Write robust programs using at least 2 text programming languages.
- Use computational thinking to solve problems.
- Understand how computers store and process data.
- Understand how hardware and software interact.
- Information technology and the respective software to complete tasks including Cloud based.
- Digital Literacy and understanding how Computer Science influences and supports their lives.
- Use computers and the content in respectful and safe manner to interact with the wider community.
Summary of curriculum content
|
|
Term 1 (Autumn) |
Term 2 (Spring) |
Term 3 (Summer) |
|
Year 7 |
Introduction to school systems
E-Safety and Respectful use of Online resources and communities. |
First Steps in Small Basic – Text-based programming
Spreadsheets |
Programming with Kodu
Health Technology using Microbits |
|
Year 8 |
Cyber Crime and Security
Understanding Computers |
Next Steps in Small Basic
Introduction to Python programming |
Raspberry Pi Pathways – Python
App Development |
|
|
Term 1 (Autumn) |
Term 2 (Spring) |
Term 3 (Summer) |
|
Year 9 |
Python Programming Computational thinking Variables, iteration, selection Operators and logic Data structures File handing |
Paper 1 Computer architecture Memory Storage Networking |
Paper 1 Computer security System software Computer Ethics Coding Projects |
|
Year 10 |
Paper 1 / Paper 2 Algorithms (sort and search) Robust programs Computational logic |
Paper 1 Translators and IDE’s Data representation Programming recap and advanced python |
Paper 2 A programming project / technique that will allow students to develop their python knowledge further. |
|
Year 11
|
Time2Code Computer architecture Memory Storage Networking Computer security System software |
Paper 1 / Paper 2 Algorithms (sort and search) Programming techniques Robust programs Computational logic Translators and IDE’s Data representation Issues and Impact |
Examination prep for Paper 1 and Paper 2
|
Challenge and support in Computer Science
Within the department we take the opportunity to provide learning opportunities that are adapted to individual learners. Using online platforms and curriculum time with skilled staff ensures students can understand the core concepts, whilst being introduced to complex programming concepts and a deeper knowledge of how computer systems are developed.
How is Computer Science assessed?
KS3
Students are assessed after each unit of work. The assessment consists of a portfolio of work and multiple-choice online assessments. Students are also involved with presentations and group projects to support study skills and improve their oracy skills.
KS4
Exam Board: Edexcel
Specification: GCSE Computer Science 1CP2
Assessing in KS4 will be from a range of extended writing, multiple-choice and exam questions from the bank of questions supplied from Edexcel
Seneca is a comprehensive and powerful learning environment that will empower students to focus on their learning needs and support review and addressing knowledge gap. We also use a Time2Code website to support coding and programming techniques.
Learning beyond the classroom
Home learning in Computer Science is well-placed to support the content presented within the classroom. It is also utilised to ensure that previously learnt knowledge is not forgotten as we progress through Years 9 – 11.
We have successfully implemented Seneca, which provides a comprehensive e-platform aligned with the course content. Students can see first-hand which areas they have embedded knowledge; it also provides targeted content that can support weak areas of the course. Home learning will be set on a weekly basis in line with the school policy.
Where can Computer Science lead?
Computer Science is available in a wide range of course beyond KS3 and GCSE.
Local colleges and learning providers will offer A-Levels, T-Levels and Apprenticeship opportunities in the local community.
Learning can also progress into higher levels of study via Degree courses, Sponsored degrees through employment routes and Apprenticeship degrees which are be developed year on year.