ICT
Introduction
ICT is taught as a discrete subject and is used extensively in other subjects at key stage 3 and key stage 4. Pupils will learn important skills within the ICT lesson, which enables them to use the computer confidently at home and at school for work in ICT lessons and for use in other subjects. Pupils may choose to continue studying ICT as an academic subject for GCSE and AS/A2 level. The school has 3 ICT suites, 2 sets of laptops and has recently updated its workstations.
What do Students Study in ICT
ICT is a compulsory subject for all pupils in Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9). At KS3 pupils have a 45 minute lesson each week increasing to three 45 minute lessons each week at Key Stage 4. Pupils will use a variety of software to complete project-based work.
Year 7: E-safety, presentation software, spreadsheet budgets, word processor basics, database searching and programming software,
Year 8: Presentation/graphics software, spreadsheets, web research, and audio mixing software,
Year 9: Website design, databases, graphics/photo-editing software, spreadsheet and programming software.
GCSE – CCEA Examination Board
Topics covered : Data security, networks, hardware, office applications, operating systems, presentation software, programming software, ICT in organisations, e-commerce, legal issues, smart phones, Internet and email
Assessment
- 40% External Examination
- 60% 2 Controlled Assignments
The controlled assignments will cover the following topics.
- The use of a database, spreadsheet and presentation software
- Web design, Programming to create a game
AS/A2 Level – WJEC Examination Board
At AS pupils study information systems and complete a project about presenting information. Pupils will take a written paper and complete a coursework project using presentation software. Pupils taking A2 will learn about the impact of ICT and types of databases. Pupils will take a written paper and produce a coursework project around a relational database.
6th Form
Those pupils who do not have an ICT qualification can work towards gaining a European Computer Driving Licence qualification
Links
- Crystal - ICT educational activities available online
- OpenOffice - office software for homework
- Scratch – free programming language to create animations, games etc..
- Inkscape – drawing package for presentation work
- CCEA – GCSE examination board for ICT
- WJEC – AS/A2 examination board for ICT
- European Computer Driving Licence
- Typer Shark Online
- Tux Type
