ICT & Computer Science

In KS3 Computing, we aim to encourage students to:

• use and evaluate computational abstractions that model the state and behaviour of real-world problems and physical systems
• understand key algorithms that reflect computational thinking and use logical reasoning to compare the utility of alternative algorithms for the same problem
• use 2 or more programming languages, at least one of which is textual (Python), to solve a variety of computational problems; make appropriate use of data structures; design and develop modular programs that use procedures or functions
• understand simple Boolean logic [for example, AND, OR and NOT] and some of its uses in circuits and programming; understand how numbers can be represented in binary, and be able to carry out simple operations on binary numbers [for example, binary addition, and conversion between binary and decimal]
• understand the hardware and software components that make up computer systems, and how they communicate with one another and with other systems
• understand how instructions are stored and executed within a computer system; understand how data of various types (including text, sounds and pictures) can be represented and manipulated digitally, in the form of binary digits
• undertake creative projects that involve selecting, using, and combining multiple applications, preferably across a range of devices, to achieve challenging goals, including collecting and analysing data and meeting the needs of known users
• create, reuse, revise and repurpose digital artefacts for a given audience, with attention to trustworthiness, design and usability
• understand a range of ways to use technology safely, respectfully, responsibly and securely, including protecting their online identity and privacy; recognise inappropriate content, contact and conduct, and know how to report concerns

Useful resources:

• https://foldr.abbeygrangeacademy.co.uk/home/files (login with your school Username + Password) to access the Computing digital resource library.
• Idea
• Bebras‍
• BBC Bitesize
• Knowledge organisers provided by staff within lessons.

In KS4 BTEC Digital Information Technology, we aim to encourage students to:

• gives learners the opportunity to develop sector-specific knowledge and skills in a practical learning environment. The main focus is on four areas of equal importance, which cover the:
• development of key skills that prove your aptitude in digital information technology, such as project planning, designing and creating user interfaces, creating dashboards to present and interpret data
• process that underpins effective ways of working in digital information technology, such as project planning, the iterative design process, cyber security, virtual teams, legal and ethical codes of conduct
• attitudes that are considered most important in digital information technology, including personal management and communication
• knowledge that underpins effective use of skills, process and attitudes in the sector such as how different user interfaces meet user needs, how organisations collect and use data to make decisions, virtual workplaces, cyber security and legal and ethical issues.

Useful resources:

• https://foldr.abbeygrangeacademy.co.uk/home/files (login with your school Username + Password) to access the Computing digital resource library.
• Idea
• Know it all Ninja
• ‍Knowledge organisers provided by staff within lessons.

In KS4 Computer Science, we aim to encourage students to:

• understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of Computer Science, including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms, and data representation
• analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems, including designing, writing and debugging programs
• think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically
• understand the components that make up digital systems, and how they communicate with one another and with other systems
• understand the impacts of digital technology to the individual and to wider society
• apply mathematical skills relevant to Computer Science.

Useful resources:

• https://foldr.abbeygrangeacademy.co.uk/home/files (login with your school Username + Password) to access the Computing digital resource library.
• Idea
• Bebras‍
• BBC Bitesize
• Craig and Dave YouTube Channel‍
• Knowledge organisers provided by staff within lessons