Computer Science
Overview
The Computer Science Department has a dedicated computer suite to accommodate all timetabled lessons. The suite is equipped with 30 PCs, Promethean Smart Screen, Internet and email access and a range of software packages including Microsoft Office and a subscription to Coding Rooms.
Key Stage 3 Curriculum
The Key Stage 3 Curriculum has been written by the Head of Department to satisfy the breadth and depth of the new National Curriculum for Computer Science. Our aim is that students become independent learners and confident users of ICT and Computing within a range of software programs where skills can be transferred and used in a variety of other subject disciplines. Students are encouraged to progress and develop their knowledge and understanding in a variety of units including hardware, software, memory and storage, moral, legal and environmental concerns, computational logic, algorithms, programming techniques, data representation and a programming project. Students are assessed in their work via a range of different methods.
Key Stage 4 Curriculum
At Key Stage 4 students have the opportunity to study GCSE Computer Science at Key Stage 4 - OCR GCSE Computer Science (9-1)
In Year 10 students study the theory topics of ‘Boolean Logic’, ‘System Architecture’, ‘Memory and Storage’, ‘Algorithms’, ‘Programming Fundamentals’ and ‘Producing Robust Programs’ and ‘Programming Languages and Integrated Environments’.
A Programming project task takes place which involves independent work. Students learn a variety of skills in programming using Python.
In Year 11 students study the theory topics of ‘Computer Networks and Protocols’, ‘Network Security’, ‘System Software’ and ‘Ethical, Legal, Cultural and Environmental Concerns’, For further information, please see this document.
https://www.ocr.org.uk/Images/558027-specification-gcse-computer-science-j277.pdf
Classes are mixed ability based on option block choices and all assessment is finalised at the end of the two-year course.
The full GCSE is assessed as follows: Comp1: written examination worth 50% Comp2: written examination worth 50%
Homework and Extra Curricular
In Key Stage 3 homework will be set to consolidate learning within the classroom and to encourage students to research and prepare for forthcoming units of work.
In Key Stage 4 students will be expected to extend their knowledge of theory within the option GCSE pathway that they have chosen.
The computer suite is available on a daily basis for students who wish to further progress within the subject and who may require additional support. Guidance is also available on an after school basis where students can arrange appropriate timings with teachers to suit their needs
There is the availability of a weekly GCSE support session and a weekly run computer club.
