Computing

Introduction

Computing at Isleworth & Syon aims to give pupils the capability to participate and engage in modern society. The increasing use of technology in all aspects of society makes confident, creative and productive use of computers an essential skill for life. Computing capability encompasses not only the mastery of technical skills and techniques, but also the understanding to apply these skills purposefully, safely and responsibly in learning, everyday life and employment. At Isleworth & Syon, we aim to give pupils the skills and understanding needed to use technology effectively, every day and in the world of work ahead.

KS3

Summary

A high-quality computing education equips pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Computing has deep links with mathematics, science, and design and technology, and provides insights into both natural and artificial systems. The core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Building on this knowledge and understanding, pupils are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. 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. At Key Stage 3, pupils have one Computing lesson per week in year 7 and two in Years 8 and 9.

Curriculum Content

Year 7

Curriculum

Computer Safety and Digital Literacy
The unit will get pupils thinking about staying safe online and the possible threats they could face. It will build on their primary school knowledge and enable them to improve their digital literacy skills. They will use various applications to present information and gain an understanding of the school IT systems. By the end of the unit, pupils will have a good understanding of staying safe online and will be able to suggest tips to avoid the threats. They will demonstrate their understanding by presenting their knowledge using different applications.

Computer networks and data transmission
Imagine a world without computer networks: there would be no more YouTube, Google, instant messaging, online video gaming, Netflix, and iTunes; no online shopping; no file sharing; and no central backups of information. This unit begins by defining a network and addressing the benefits of networking, before covering how data is transmitted across networks using protocols. The types of hardware required are explained, as is wired and wireless data transmission. Pupils will develop an understanding of the terms ‘internet’ and ‘World Wide Web’, and of the key services and protocols used. Practical exercises are included throughout to help strengthen understanding.

Data modelling
The spreadsheet unit for Year 7 takes pupils from having very little knowledge of spreadsheets to being able to confidently model data with a spreadsheet. The unit uses engaging activities to progress pupils from using basic formulas to writing their own COUNTIF statements. This unit will give pupils a good set of skills that they can use in computing lessons and in other subject areas.

Using media to support a cause
During this unit, learners develop their understanding of information technology and digital literacy skills. They will use the skills learnt across the unit to create a blog post about a real-world cause that they would like to gain support for. Learners will develop software formatting skills and explore concerns surrounding the use of other people’s work, including licensing and legal issues.

Using fundamental programming constructs in a block-based language
In this unit pupils will build their confidence and knowledge of the key programming constructs (sequence, iteration, selection and variables). Learners will use Scratch to explore the key programming constructs firstly through editing pre-existing code and then by developing their own programs.

Clear messaging in Digital Media
This unit is designed to build upon pupils' experience in key stage 2. It requires pupils to use a range of different skills across several pieces of software. Pupils will work between different applications to create a poster and slides on a given theme. The unit is designed so that pupils can concentrate on applying skills that they may have previously learnt as well as those learnt in the unit. Pupils are given clear tasks for which they need to first plan and then implement a solution.

Assessment

All units in Year 7 will be assessed through an end-of-topic test and Home Learning activities.

Homework

Homework is set on Insight / Parent Portal by class teachers fortnightly.

Further Resources

The school has a subscription to The Day, an online news service for schools. Click the button to the right, then browse ‘Subjects’ in the top menu to find computing resources.

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 7 curriculum.

BBC Bitesize: E-Safety – excellent learning resources from the BBC.
Teach-ICT – very useful website which contains a variety of helpful resources and materials.
Scratch – information on projects created using the Scratch program.

Year 8

Curriculum

Vector graphics
This unit offers pupils the opportunity to design graphics using vector graphic editing software. By the end of the unit pupils will have produced an illustration, a logo, or some icons using vector graphics. Vector graphics can be used to design anything from logos and icons to posters, board games, and complex illustrations. Through this unit, pupils will be able to better understand the processes involved in creating such graphics and will be provided with the knowledge and tools to create their own.

Developing for the web
The unit is subdivided into six learning topics spread across twelve lessons. In the first three topics, pupils will learn the basics of HTML and CSS, and how to create a responsive design which adapts to any size of screen for viewing on most platforms. They will learn how to create text styles and add content, including text and graphics, in a specified position on a page, as well as navigation links to other pages on their website and to external websites. The basics of good design are covered and pupils will develop their own templates in a text editor such as Notepad. They will then use their HTML templates to create their websites, including a web form. Pupils can view the data collected by the web form into a simulated database. This also helps to stimulate discussion on the privacy of data.

Computer systems and data science
In this unit pupils will explore the layers of computer systems from programs to the physical components that store and execute these programs. They will discover the fundamental binary building blocks that make up computer systems and how systems are evolving for developments such as AI.

Data representation: text and numbers
This unit conveys essential knowledge relating to binary representations. The activities gradually introduce learners to binary digits and how they can be used to represent text and numbers.

Mobile app development
The Multimedia Unit consists of many small projects, such as making a movie in Movie Maker, editing sound in Audacity, and creating an animation and a website in Mediator. The website created in Mediator will be tested to ensure that it is fully-functioning. The student’s website will be both peer- and teacher-evaluated.

Introduction to Python programming
This unit introduces pupils to text-based programming with Python. The lessons form a journey that starts with simple programs involving input and output, and gradually moves on through arithmetic operations, randomness, selection, and iteration. Emphasis is placed on tackling common misconceptions and elucidating the mechanics of program execution.

Assessment

All units in Year 8 will be assessed through an end-of-topic written test and Home Learning activities.

Homework

Homework is set on Insight / Parent Portal by class teachers fortnightly.

Further Resources

The school has a subscription to The Day, an online news service for schools. Click the button to the right, then browse ‘Subjects’ in the top menu to find computing resources.

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 8 curriculum.

MSWLogo programming – find out more about the Logo program.
W3Schools – an excellent website offering detailed HTML and CSS tutorials.
BBC Bitesize: Control – excellent revision resources from the BBC.
Teach-ICT – very useful website which contains a variety of helpful resources and materials.
Binary Game – play a fun binary game online.
The Virtual Microbit – allows you to program in micro-python using a virtual Microbit.

Year 9

Curriculum

Python programming with sequences of data
In this unit pupils will discover how data is represented and processed in sequences, such as lists and strings. They will cover a spectrum of operations on sequences of data, that range from accessing an individual element to manipulating the entire sequence though real world practical activites.

3D animation
In this unit pupils will discover how to create 3D animations using industry-standard software. They will gain a greater understanding of how 3D animation is used to make the media products that we consume. They will explore the basics of modelling, texturing, animating to create 3D models.

Using data science
In this unit pupils will discover how to use data to investigate problems and make changes to the world around them. Pupils will be exposed to both global and local data sets and gain an understanding of how visualising data can help with the process of identifying patterns and trends.

Data representation: images and sound
In this unit, pupils will focus on digital media such as images and sounds, and discover the binary digits that lie beneath these types of media. They will explore how images and sound can be manipulated and consider the link between quality of images and sound and the resulting file size.

Introduction to cybersecurity
This unit takes pupils on a journey of discovery about techniques used by cybercriminals to steal data, disrupt systems and infiltrate networks. They will consider the value of data to organisations and what it is used for. They will look at social engineering techniques and common cybercrimes.

Machine learning using the micro:bit
This unit is designed to develop pupils programming skills in a new engaging context: physical computing, using the BBC micro:bit. They will get acquainted with the host of components built into the micro:bit, and write simple programs that use these components to interact with the physical world.

Assessment

All units in Year 9 will be assessed through an end-of-topic written test.

Homework

Homework is set on Insight / Parent Portal by class teachers fortnightly.

Further Resources

The school has a subscription to The Day, an online news service for schools. Click the button to the right, then browse ‘Subjects’ in the top menu to find computing resources.

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 9 curriculum.

Python – find out more about Python programming.
Repl.it – a cloud coding environment.
Code Academy – learn to program effectively with this great website.

KS4

Summary

At Key Stage 4, we offer pupils the opportunity to study GCSE Computer Science and the Cambridge National in IT. It gives pupils a real, in-depth understanding of computers. It offers an insight into what goes on ‘behind the scenes’, including computer programming, which many pupils find absorbing.

Pupils select their Key Stage 4 course option during Year 9.

GCSE Computer Science

Specification Code: 8525
Level: GCSE
Examination Board: AQA

Curriculum

This qualification is linear, meaning that students will sit all their examinations and submit all of their non-examination assessments at the end of Year 11. It consists of three components:

Paper 1: Computational thinking and problems
Paper 2: Written assessment
Non-examination assessment

The subject content is as follows:

Fundamentals of algorithms
Programming
Fundamentals of data representation
Computer systems
Fundamentals of computer networks
Fundamentals of cyber security
Relational databases
Ethical, legal and environmental impacts of digital technology on wider society, including issues of privacy

Assessment

Paper 1: Computational thinking and problem-solving
Computational thinking, problem solving, code tracing and applied computing as well as theoretical knowledge of computer science from subject content 1 and 3 above.

External written examination set in practically based scenarios – 2 hours (90 marks) – 50% of GCSE grade (taken at the end of Year 11)

Questions are a mix of multiple choice, short answer and longer answer questions assessing a student’s practical problem solving and computational thinking skills.

Paper 2: Written assessment
Theoretical knowledge from subject content 3–7 above.

External written examination – 1 hour 45 minutes (90 marks) – 50% of GCSE questions

A mix of multiple choice, short answer, longer answer and extended response questions assessing a student’s theoretical knowledge.

Non-examination assessment
The non-examination assessment (NEA) assesses a student’s ability to use the knowledge and skills gained through the course to solve a practical programming problem. Students will be expected to follow a systematic approach to problem-solving.

NEA Report: totalling 20 hours of work – compulsory component

The development of a computer program along with the computer programming code itself which has been designed, written and tested by a student to solve a problem. Students will produce an original report outlining this development.

Further Resources

The school has a subscription to The Day, an online news service for schools. Click the button to the right, then browse ‘Subjects’ in the top menu to find computing resources.

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 10 curriculum.

AQA – examination board website offering specifications, mark schemes and past papers.
Teach-ICT.com – Useful revision resources for the AQA qualifications
Repl.it – an online IDE allowing students to write and build programs
Seneca Learning – useful online revision resource for students undertaking GCSE Computer Science

Cambridge Nationals in IT

Specification Code: 603/7115/8
Level: GCSE
Examination Board: OCR

Curriculum

This course consists of three units

R050: IT in the digital world

R060: Data manipulation using spreadsheets

R070: Using augmented reality to present information

Assessment

R050: IT in the digital world
Practical examination – 1 hour 30 minutes – 40% of grade

R060: Data manipulation using spreadsheets
Internal assessment – 10-12 guided learning hours – 30% of grade

R070: Using augmented reality to present information
Internal assessment – 10-12 guided learning ours – 30% of grade

Further Resources

The school has a subscription to The Day, an online news service for schools. Click the button to the right, then browse ‘Subjects’ in the top menu to find computing resources.

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 10 curriculum.

OCR – examination board website offering specifications, mark schemes and past papers.

KS5

Summary

At Key Stage 5, we offer pupils the opportunity to study different Computing and IT courses. We currently offer the following courses: GCE A level Computer Science and Cambridge Technical Level 3 in Information Technology.

Computer Science A level values computational thinking, helping learners to develop the skills to solve problems, design systems and understand the power and limits of human and machine intelligence. Learners will develop an ability to analyse, critically evaluate and make decisions. We offer a suite of qualifications for the Level 3 Cambridge Technical in Information Technology. These qualifications are suitable for students preparing for employment in any Information Technology sector, or to complement, as a good combination with a business course. It is a practical subject that provides useful skills if students are unsure of their plans for university and can be used to support study in further and higher education.

A Level Computer Science

Specification Code: H446
Level: A level
Examination Board:OCR

Curriculum

This qualification is linear, meaning that students will sit all their examinations and submit all of their non-examination assessments at the end of Year 13. It consists of three components:

Component 1 – Computer Systems

The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices
Software and software development
Exchanging data
Data types, data structures and algorithms
Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues

Component 2 – Algorithms and Programming

Elements of computational thinking
Problem solving and programming
Algorithms to solve problems and standard algorithms

Component 3 – Programming Project
The learner will choose a computing problem to work through according to the guidance in the specification.

Analysis of the problem
Design of the solution
Developing the solution
Evaluation

Assessment

Component 1
Written examination – 2 hours 30 minutes – 40% of A level

Component 2
Written examination – 2 hours 30 minutes – 40% of A level

Non-Examination Assessment (NEA) – Programming project
Written examination – Programming project consisting of 72 guided learning hours. Assessed both in school and through external moderation – 20% of A level

Further Resources

The school has a subscription to The Day, an online news service for schools. Click the button to the right, then browse ‘Subjects’ in the top menu to find computing resources.

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their curriculum.

OCR – examination board’s website, offering past papers and mark schemes.
Teach-ICT.com – good resources to support learning.
Repl.it – an online IDE allowing students to write and build programs
Craig N Dave on YouTube – YouTube playlist for the H446 specification
Seneca Learning – useful online revision resource for students undertaking GCSE Computer Science

BTEC Nationals Information Technology (AAQ)

Specification Code: 610/3960/3
Level: Level 3
Examination Board: Pearson (Edexcel)

Year 12

Curriculum

In Year 12, students will study the following topics:

Unit 1 – Information Technology Systems
Unit 3 – Website Development

Assessment

Unit 1 – Information Technology Systems
Written examination - 1 hour 30 minutes

Unit 3 – Website Development
Internally assessed unit

Each unit is graded Fail, Pass, Merit or Distinction. The grades for each individual unit together enable students to achieve the equivalent UCAS tariff points to an A level at Grade A*, A, C, or E.

Further Resources

The school has a subscription to The Day, an online news service for schools. Click the button to the right, then browse ‘Subjects’ in the top menu to find computing resources.

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 12 curriculum.

Pearson – examination board’s website, offering past papers and mark schemes.
Teach-ICT.com – useful resource for all of the units.
BCS – useful resource for recent news articles relevant to the theoretical components
Know It All Ninja – useful revision website to complement all of the units.

Year 13

Curriculum

In Year 13, students will study the followng topics:

Unit 2 - Cyber security and Incident Management
Unit 4 - Relational Database Development

Assessment

Unit 2 - Cyber security and Incident Management
Written examination – 1 hour 30 minutes

Unit 4 - Relational Database Development
Internally assessed unit

Further Resources

The school has a subscription to The Day, an online news service for schools. Click the button to the right, then browse ‘Subjects’ in the top menu to find computing resources.

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 12 curriculum.

Pearson (Edexcel) – examination board’s website, offering past papers and mark schemes.
‘Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT Student’ Book by Saundra Middleton, Victoria Ellis and Graham Manson.
‘My Revision notes Cambridge Technicals Level 3’ Book by Mo Everett

CTEC Diploma in Information Technology

Specification Code: 601/7101/7
Level: CTEC
Examination Board:OCR

Year 12

Curriculum

In Year 12, students will study the following topics:

Unit 1 – Fundamentals in IT
Unit 2 – Global Information
Unit 3 – Cyber Security
Unit 6 – Application Design
Unit 13 – Social Media and Digital Marketing

Assessment

Unit 1 – Fundamentals of IT
Written examination – 1 hour 30 minutes

Unit 2 – Global information
Written examination – 1 hour 30 minutes

Unit 3 – Cyber-Security
Written examination – 1 hour

Unit 6 and 13 are centre-assessed and externally-moderated by OCR.

Each unit is graded Fail, Pass, Merit or Distinction. Building on the BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma, a further 6 units are completed which together enable students to achieve the equivalent UCAS tariff points to 2 A-Levels at Grades A*A*, A*A, AA, BB, CC, DD or EE.

Further Resources

The school has a subscription to The Day, an online news service for schools. Click the button to the right, then browse ‘Subjects’ in the top menu to find computing resources.

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 12 curriculum.

Pearson (Edexcel) – examination board’s website, offering past papers and mark schemes.
‘Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT Student’ Book by Saundra Middleton, Victoria Ellis and Graham Manson.
‘My Revision notes Cambridge Technicals Level 3’ Book by Mo Everett

Year 13

Curriculum

In Year 13, students will study the following topics:

Unit 8 – Project Management
Unit 9 – Product Development
Unit 12 – Mobile Technology
Unit 14 – Software Engineering for Business
Unit 15 – Games Design and Prototyping
Unit 17 – Internet of Everything
Unit 21 – Web Design and Prototyping
Unit 22- Big Data Analytics

Assessment

All units are centre-assessed and externally-moderated by OCR.

Further Resources

The school has a subscription to The Day, an online news service for schools. Click the button to the right, then browse ‘Subjects’ in the top menu to find computing resources.

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 12 curriculum.

Pearson (Edexcel) – examination board’s website, offering past papers and mark schemes.
‘Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT Student’ Book by Saundra Middleton, Victoria Ellis and Graham Manson.
‘My Revision notes Cambridge Technicals Level 3’ Book by Mo Everett

Extra-Curricular

We organise a number of activities for our students. These include:

Big Idea Challenge – London Met Business Idea Competition
Sky Academy Skills Studio