ICT & Computer Science

During Key Stage 3 students are taught the fundamentals of using a computer; including e-safety, types of hardware, correct saving files of files and using the features of core programs including word processors, spreadsheets, graphics editing software and other online resources. A lot of freedom and creativity is built in and students are encouraged to consider their designs and their intended audience. This is interweaved with a variety of computer science-based projects and theory such as HTML and web design, algorithms and problem solving, binary, encryption, game development and robotics, as well as other topics aligned with the national curriculum for Computing. Students will get the opportunity to write their own programs using a range of tools including Python and Gamemaker.

Course Description:

Computer Science is a fast paced, stimulating field that incorporates many different disciplines including mathematics, programming and linguistics.

GCSE Computer Science will introduce students to the world of computational thinking. How do computers process such complex tasks? How can a machine understand code? Where is the limit on what can be computed? The course will answer questions you may already have about technology and present a multitude of new ones.

The course is divided into 2 units:

Unit 1: Computer Systems

This unit explores the fundamentals of computer science, such as the inner workings of modern-day devices; how devices communicate with each other; and system security. Students will begin to understand why some devices work faster than others; how films can be streamed straight to their devices; and the ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns associated with Computer Science.

Unit 2: Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming

This unit focuses on software development and will introduce students to algorithms and programming in a very practical way. Students will use Python to learn about programming constructs, computational logic and how to produce robust programs. They will gain an understanding of how a computer translates their code and learn to represent numbers in binary and hexadecimal. As part of this unit students will be required to design, write and debug their own code to solve specific problems.

Method of Assessment:

Unit 1: Written paper (80 marks) 50%

Unit 2: Written paper (80 marks) 50%

Choose Computer Science if you want to:

• Learn how to write your own algorithms and programs

• Develop your research, logical thinking and problem-solving skills

• Become an independent user of technology

• Deepen your understanding of current and new technologies

For students who are creative and wish to continue gaining ICT skills the Cambridge Nationals in Creative iMedia will teach students a range of creative media skills and provide opportunities to develop, in context, desirable, transferable skills such as research, planning, and review, working with others and communicating creative concepts effectively. They will be working with industry standard applications by Adobe and Microsoft. It provides students with essential knowledge, transferable skills and tools to improve their learning.

Course Description:

The UK is a world leader in the creative digital industries, such as in the creation of visual effects for films and computer games. However, there is growing recognition that we need to build on and improve the UK’s capability and capacity for technical innovation and creativity in this area.

This course has been designed to engage and enthuse young people with an interest in creative computing, for example digital graphics and design, animations, interactive multimedia products and web design.

The course is made up of 3 units. The first unit is Creative iMedia in the media industry. In this unit students will learn about the media industry, digital media products, how they are planned, and the media types which are used to convey meaning, create impact and engage audiences. The second is visual identity and digital graphics and in this unit, they will learn to how to develop visual identities for clients and use the concepts of graphic design to create original digital graphics to engage target audiences. This will develop skills in such things as photo editing using Photoshop. The third unit is interactive digital media where students will learn greater skills to develop attractive and interactive products such as websites and animations.

Methods of Assessment:

The units will be assessed as follows:

Practical Examination

The examination will be set and marked by the exam board.

Coursework

The coursework is the means by which students bring together the knowledge, skills and understanding they have acquired throughout the unit into a single piece of work. There is one piece of coursework for each of the final two units covered and is based on a business like scenario set by the exam board.

Course Description:

Computer Science A-Level is a cutting edge, fast paced, stimulating subject that incorporates many disciplines, including mathematics, programming and linguistics. It will sharpen your problem-solving skills and creativity, as well as deepening your understanding of how technology works; far beyond the average user. Studying Computer Science at LPGS6 will put you in a great position to enter an increasingly technological society and give you the skills to excel in an industry that is growing faster than most others. Whether you want to be a cyber security expert, analyst, programmer, web or app designer, or just want to work in the exciting and well-paid tech-industry; having a greater understanding of the technology around us will make you stand out from the crowd. Lessons at LPGS6 will be engaging and often practical. You’ll be encouraged to work together to try to find solutions to issues, and students often build strong bonds as a class. You’ll be taught about how computers and networks work as well as learning programming.

Skills Required:

Computer Science is an ideal subject for inquisitive students with a strong interest in technology in particular. You will need to be able to work independently as well as part of a group and have the patience to solve complex logical problems.

Method of Assessment:

Paper 1: Computer Systems (exam 2h 30m) - 40% of total marks.

Paper 2: Algorithms and Programming (exam 2h 30m) - 40% of total marks.

Coursework: A programming project where you pick an area of interest or a problem and create a program in a language of your choice (coursework) - 20% of total marks.

Progression:

Although Computer Science is an ideal introduction to those wishing to study the subject at degree level, the course allows candidates to develop transferable skills such as problem solving, creativity, innovation, analysis and logic as well as programming. These skills drive innovation across areas including the sciences, engineering, business, entertainment and education. No matter what field you want to enter, having a background in Computer Science will give you that competitive edge and the potential to make a positive difference within your chosen career.