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GCSE Computing Years 10 & 11

Specification

OCR - The specification and assessment structure can be found at the link: https://ocr.org.uk/qualifications/gcse/computer-science-j276-from-2016/

What will I study?

Develop their understanding of current and emerging technologies, understanding of how they work and apply this knowledge and understanding in a range of contexts.

Acquire and apply knowledge, some technical skills and an understanding of the use of algorithms in computer programs to solve problems using programming.

Through this study of computer programming, the course will help learners develop critical thinking, analysis and problem solving skills.

Skills and Qualities required

There are two exams, which require self-motivation and an interest in, and appreciation of, computing theory.

An interest in programming – students will be required to write and edit programmes as well as general computing theory.

An interest in modern developments in ICT and Computing.

An aptitude in mathematics will be a benefit.

How will I learn?

In a supportive, well-equipped classroom environment, the students will work with the Visual Basic programming environment to produce effective computing solutions in a range of contexts. Structured Query Language (SQL) for use with databases will be taught using Microsoft Access. Students also learn about computing theory, software, hardware and computing/programming concepts.

Year 10

Development of programming skills using Visual Basic and SQL and key theory topics.

Students will learn a number of programming techniques plus hardware & software theory.

Year 11
Controlled Assessment Candidates create a programmed solution to a set problem and produce a detailed report.
Exam Two exams – one mainly algorithms and programming concepts; the second is on remaining topics (e.g. networking).

How will I be assessed?

Students have to complete two 90-minute written exams.

Where could it lead?

A Level Computing.

If learners want to go on to higher study and employment in the field of Computer Science (programing, game design, cyber-security, artificial intelligence etc.), they will find that this course provides a superb stepping stone.

Year 10

  Topic Further details about the topic Skills
Autumn Term
1 Understand how computers work and communicate Computer hardware, software, networks and how the internet works Specifying computer systems
2 Learning to program for the web Programming in HTML and Javascript for CA1 HTML and Javascript programming
Spring Term
1 Controlled Assessment 1 – web programming 20 hours on a set task to research and write a web program Web programming and program testing
2 Controlled Assessment 1 – web programming Document, test and submit web controlled assessment Web programming and program testing
Summer Term
1 Learning to program in a high-level language Visual Basic Programming applications for Windows
2 Advanced programming concepts Visual Basic Programming applications for Windows

Year 11

  Topic Further details about the topic Skills
Autumn Term
1 Controlled Assessment 2 Programming in Visual basic – design, write and test 3 different programmes

VB Programming

Program testing

2 Controlled Assessment 2 Programming in Visual basic – design, write and test 3 different programmes

VB programming

Program testing

Spring Term
1 Internal computer hardware and logic gates Study internal components and combinational logic Logic gates
2 Software and Operating systems Databases, spreadsheets, Windows functions Advanced use of software applications
Summer Term
1 Sound, graphics and data manipulation e.g. bitmap vs vector e.g. use of graphics software
  Legislation, health and safety, ethics. Past papers. Exam preparation How to approach the final exam

Assessments

Resources Topic Type of assessment
CAT 1 Programming for the web Practical exam
CAT 2 Controlled Assessment 1 Self Review
CAT 3 Advanced programming concepts Assessment evidence and mock
CAT 4 Controlled Assessment 2 Self Review
CAT 5 Computing Theory Written test
CAT 6 Computing Theory Written test

Main Resources

Resource Details Term
Text books OCR GCSE Computing All
Recommended websites

Teach-ict.com

www.w3schools.com

All

Enrichment opportunities

Activity Day and time or term
Additional programming topics Lunchtime
Lunchtime Rm9  - Open for general computer use Tuesday and Thursday

Where Next

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