Computer Science

Course content: 

Year 7:

About Me presentation

• Research and present presentation on yourself
• ICT rules
• File management
• Getting started at Ashcroft
• Saving files

Code.org 

• Learning basics of coding in a block-based program
• Doing a wide range of problem-solving activities involving fundamental principles of coding

Spreadsheets - Learning how to use Excel

• Working with data, formula, functions, creating graphs and charts
• Spreadsheet modelling involving selection scenarios

Online Safety - How to stay safe online

• The dangers of cyber bullying and social media
• How to avoid spending too long on online devices and learning to switch off
• Dangers of over-use

Binary numbers

• Converting binary to denary
• Representing data in binary
• Units of data storage

DTP

• Researching, planning and creating a leaflet on a computing pioneer

Year 8:

Introduction to Python - Learning how to code

• Learning the basic principles of coding
• Learning how to write code and troubleshoot problems
• Mastering the basics of sequencing, selection and iteration

Using technology safely, respectfully, responsibly and securely

• Computer crime and cyber-security
• Digital literacy
• Email scams
• Viruses
• Copyright legislation
• Protecting personal data
• Health and safety

Graphics design

• Learning how to create vector graphics using a range of graphics techniques and using Adobe Fireworks
• Planning and creating a range of products including logos, web banners, adverts both online and printed

Web design - Introduction to creating websites

• Learning to plan, design and build a website
• Consider house style, colour schemes, typography
• Introduction to HTML and CSS

Introduction to computing theory

• Retrieval of information on binary numbers plus more on hexadecimal
• Learning how computers work - computer architecture, RAM, ROM 
• Introduction to networks

Specification: OCR – GCSE Computer Science

Link to OCR website for GCSE Computer Science overview

Course Content

Year 9:

Systems architecture, computer systems: hardware; systems software; logic gates, data
representation binary, hexadecimal, denary, networks, ethical, cultural and environmental
concerns.

Year 10:

Algorithms, computational thinking, problem solving, Boolean logic, programming
challenges, revisiting all theory topics; practise NEA

Year 11:

Programming NEA, more data types and structures, programming languages revisited,
revision of all content ready for exams – using practise exam papers, mark-schemes,
examiner reports.

Assessment

Paper 1 – Computer Systems 50%

Paper 2 – Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Problem Solving 50%

NEA – Programming project – 20 timetabled hours – no marks but formal requirement. Helps with Paper 2 which is all algorithms and problem solving.

List of Resources

The best books:

• Your exercise books
• Revision Guide OCR GCSE by Pearson (repro £5)
• Revision workbook OCR GCSE by Pearson (repro £5)

The best online resources:

• https://www.bbc.co.uk/education/subjects/z34k7ty
• http://www.teach-ict.com/2016/GCSE_Computing/OCR_J276/OCR_J276_home.html
• S:\ICT\Computer Science 9-1 GCSE (great resources here including exampapers/mark-schemes)