Computer Science KS3

Head of Faculty: Ms Fisk

Computer Science teacher: Mr C Gooding

In Computing, students will learn about how computers and computer systems work, how they are designed and programmed, how to apply 'computational thinking' to problem solve and how to make the best use of information technology. 

Within Computing there are three strands: Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy. Students will learn new ideas and skills such as problem solving and how to develop algorithms to code solutions. Students are encouraged to seek advice from fellow students and support each other to foster an ethos of collaborative working, where students are willing to share ideas and solutions.

Facilities

In addition to the main teaching suite of 32 networked computers, the school has 3 other computer suites of similar size and many smaller clusters in other subject areas. Students are able to access their work from any computer in the school.

At present, the computers operate on Windows 10, and students use Microsoft Office 2016 for the majority of their work, though we also have our own Google domain for school use. Students are being taught how to use a range of Google documents as an alternative form of software that they can use at home and at school.

What will I learn?

Students will develop ‘Google Suite’ software skills throughout Years 7-9. Students will use computer programming languages such as Python to complete projects and code solutions to given problems. In Year 7 and 9, students learn about cyber wisdom and the rules they need to follow to ensure they are kept safe when using online digital devices wisely. 

 How will I be assessed? 

In Computing, we use a learning journal based upon a Google document. During lessons, targeted questioning and formative assessments such as online quizzes are also used. Students record a reflection for each lesson which is then marked, students then receive feedback on how to improve.

An online end-of-unit test is completed towards the end of each unit, along with homework tasks which are made available through Google Classroom.

KS3 Design Technology Curriculum Map