Computer Science

Head of Department (HOD): Miss N Darkowa

Teacher names: Miss P Carlomagno, Mr J Hayter and Miss N Konadu-Aboagye

Computer Science at St. Catherine’s allows student to explore the world of technology through creative, engaging lessons and extra-curricular activities. We engage students through 6 key areas: Algorithmic, Programming and Development, Data & Data representation, Hardware & processing, communication & networks and digital creativity & literacy. Computer Science is not only creative and expressive, it requires a deep sense of commitment and determination from our students. The subject provides opportunities for students to continue their study either via GCSE Computer Science or by taking A Cambridge national in Information Technology.

KS3

An exciting new Computer Science curriculum is being introduced. This will cover computer architecture, software and networks. Principals of eSafety will be explored as well as developing advanced skills in graphics, desk top publishing, spreadsheets and databases. Programming will also be introduced with practical projects in Scratch and Python. This will lead to a project in Year 9 where we use IT to help develop business solutions.

Topics studied in year 7

· File Management

· E-Safety

· Database and Excel skills

· Computational thinking ( Programming in scratch)

· History of computers

Topics studied in year 8

· Computational thinking ( Scratch)

· Graphics ( Photoshop & Fireworks)

· Web Development ( Dreamweaver)

· Programming ( Python)

· Film making ( adobe premier pro and audacity)

Topics studied in year 9

· App Development

· Advanced Computational thinking ( Python & Alice)

· Multimedia technologies ( digital creativity)

· Data representation

KS4

Course Content:

Who would be interested/ suitable for this course? While learners will no doubt already have some knowledge of computers and related areas, the course will give them an in-depth understanding of how computer technology works and a look at what goes on “behind the scenes”. As part of this, they will investigate computer programming. This course would suit students with a technical and analytical background with an interest in how things work. Contrary to popular belief the course does not require strong mathematical skills. Through the study of computer programming, the course will help learners develop critical thinking, analysis and problem-solving skills.

Course Content and Method of Assessment:

2 units will be studied throughout the 2-year course:

Component 01- Computer Systems: This unit will introduce students to the central processing unit (CPU), computer memory and storage, wired and wireless networks, network topologies, system security and system software. It also looks at ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns associated with computer science. This unit will provide learners with the underpinning knowledge and understanding required to use computer systems effectively.

Component 02- Computational thinking, algorithms, and programing: Students will apply knowledge and understanding gained in component 01. They will develop skills and understanding in computational thinking: algorithms, programming techniques, producing robust programs, computational logic, translators and data representation. The skills and knowledge developed within this component will support the learner when completing the Programming Project.

During the 2-year course students undertake various practical programming tasks, these programming tasks will allow the students to develop their skills to design, write, test and refine programs using a high-level programming language. Students will be assessed on these skills during the written examinations, in particular component 02 (section B). The programming task will take place in class and will not affect their final grade.

Methods of Assessment Component-01 Computer Systems will be assessed with One written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes worth 50% of qualification. Component-02 Computational thinking, algorithms, and programing will be assessed with One written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes’ worth 50% of qualification.

Extra-Curricular Opportunities:

There will be weekly booster sessions which will take place after school. The booster sessions are an opportunity for students go over any concepts that they have not fully grasped in lesson, it is also an opportunity to work in smaller groups and have one to one tutoring with the teacher.

Careers

This course will equip students with the skill, knowledge and understanding to continue studying Computer Science at A Level, International Baccalaureate, and university. Computer Science opens the door to a wide range of career choices, a few are listed below.

• Computer programmer

• Game/VR/AR Developer

• Software Developer

• Web Developer

• Network Engineer

• Digital Marking Manger

• Database Administrator

• System Analyst

If you would like to find out more about the Computing curriculum, please contact Miss Darkowa at:

info@stccg.co.uk