Computer Science
In the Computer Science department, we aim to stimulate pupils' interest, creativity in computing, with practical programming playing a key role in lessons. The National Curriculum states: “Computing also ensures that pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through, information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.”
Year 7
Term 1 – The School System
Information Technology - Printing/File Management. Using the email systems and cloud storage.
Term 2 - Computational Thinking
- Introduction to computational thinking
- Decomposition
- Pattern recognition
- Abstraction & Algorithms
- Evaluating solutions
Term 3 - Algorithms
- Designing an algorithm
- Searching & Sorting
- Sequencing & Selection
- Iteration & Logical Reasoning
Term 4 – Introduction to Programming
- Introduction to Programming
- Programming Basics
Term 5 – Block code Programming
Students will be working with block coding such as Scratch, BBC Microbit, Hour of Code & Lightbot.
Term 6 – Written code programming
Students are introduced to written code and will use Logo, Kodu & BBC Microbit to name a few.
Assessment
Students are assessed termly in lesson. Students will perform a series of tasks throughout the term. Students will perform competency skills with particular programs they will experience. The students will also be involved in assessment through peer marking and personal assessment in lessons throughout the term
Year 8
Term 1- Inside a Computer
- Inside of a Computer & Storage of Information and Information Systems
- Hardware and software
- Digital devise
- Software
- CPU & the fetch-execute cycle
Term 2 - Algorithms Designing an algorithm Searching & Sorting Sequencing & Selection Iteration & Logical Reasoning
Term 3 – Data Representation Binary Representing text, images and sound
Term 4 – BBC Microbit Students will complete a range of tasks using the JavaScript Blocks Editor & Python Editor with the BBC Microbit. Students will complete tasks using sequencing, loops & problem solving algorithms.
Term 5 - App Inventor Students will design and plan their project for a travel app. Students will evaluate what makes a good travel app, storyboard their ideas for the stages of their travel app.
Term 6 – App Inventor Students will be introduced to App Inventor to complete a project for a travel app. Students will create their 10 page application through various stages of tutorials and investigation.
Assessment
Students are assessed termly in lesson. Students will perform a series of tasks throughout the term. Students will perform competency skills with particular programs they will experience. The students will also be involved in assessment through peer marking and personal assessment in lessons throughout the term
What will I gain from studying Computer Science?
Students will develop analytical skills, problem-solving skills, creativity, critical-thinking skills and logical skills.
Pathways this course can lead to
Students can continue to take Computer Science in Year 9 as part of their wider curriculum. Students will complete projects such as the creation of a mobile application and also a website. Students can continue to complete Computer Science at KS4 to achieve a vocational qualification or a GCSE in Computer Science.
Extra curricular opportunities
Computing Club – Thursday 3.20-4.20pm