Computer Science

Topics

Skills

• Logical thinking and problem-solving
• Creativity and innovation in programming
• Analytical skills to design and evaluate solutions
• Resilience and attention to detail when debugging
• Teamwork and communication through collaborative projects

Assessment

Students are assessed through two final written exams at the end of Year 11:

Paper 1: Computer Systems (50%)

• Focuses on theoretical knowledge, including hardware, networks, and ethical issues.

Paper 2: Computational Thinking & Programming (50%)

• Tests problem-solving and coding-related concepts, including algorithms and logic.

Classroom assessments, coding projects, and regular quizzes support ongoing progress.

Computer Club Overview

The Computer Club provides a supportive environment for students to explore computing and digital technology, fostering creativity, collaboration, and skill development.

Key Features

• Activities: Hands-on projects, workshops, guest speakers, and competitions.
• Inclusivity: Open to all skill levels, promoting confidence and leadership through peer mentoring.
• Community: Builds connections and networking opportunities for future studies and careers.
• Skills: Develops problem-solving, creativity, collaboration, and technical proficiency.

Here’s an overview of possible career paths and further education opportunities related to computing and digital media, along with industry connections and guidance resources:

Career Paths

Software Development: Roles such as software engineer, application developer, or web developer. These positions focus on designing and creating software applications for various platforms.
Graphic Design: Careers in visual communication, such as graphic designer, multimedia artist, or UX/UI designer, which involve creating visual content for print, digital media, and websites.
Digital Marketing: Positions like digital marketing specialist or social media manager, focusing on online marketing strategies, content creation, and brand management.
Game Development: Careers as game designers, programmers, or animators, creating video games for various platforms, combining creative and technical skills.
Data Analysis: Roles such as data analyst or business intelligence analyst, focusing on interpreting and analyzing data to inform business decisions and strategies.
Cybersecurity: Positions like cybersecurity analyst, ethical hacker, or information security specialist, focusing on protecting systems and networks from cyber threats.
IT Support and Network Administration: Careers in technical support or network administration, ensuring the functionality and security of computer networks.
Content Creation: Opportunities in video production, podcasting, or blogging, where individuals can create engaging content across various media platforms.
Project Management: Roles such as IT project manager or digital project manager, focusing on overseeing projects from inception to completion within the tech industry.

Homework

Set day: Monday

Due day: Following Monday

Format/platform: Smart Revise (Online)

Revision Resources

Official OCR Revision Guides (available on google classroom & physical copies for all Y11 Students.)
Seneca Learning: Interactive quizzes and flashcards for Computer Science
BBC Bitesize Computer Science: Clear explanations and revision quizzes
Craig ‘n’ Dave YouTube Channel: Comprehensive tutorials tailored to the OCR specification

Key Revision Websites

1. BBC Bitesize
   BBC Bitesize
   Offers concise revision notes, interactive quizzes, and videos covering a variety of subjects, including Computing.

2. Khan Academy
   Khan Academy
   Provides comprehensive video tutorials on a wide range of topics, including Computer Programming, Data Analysis, and more.

3. GCSEPod
   GCSEPod
   Features short, engaging podcasts and videos tailored for GCSE subjects, including Computing and ICT.

4. Seneca Learning
   Seneca Learning
   Offers free revision resources, including interactive lessons and quizzes for a variety of subjects, including Computing.

5. Quizlet
   Quizlet
   Provides flashcards and study sets created by users on various topics, allowing students to practice key terms and concepts.

Online Tutorials and Videos

1. YouTube – CrashCourse
   CrashCourse Computer Science
   A playlist covering fundamental topics in computer science, including programming, algorithms, and the history of computing.

2. YouTube – Tech With Tim
   Tech With Tim
   Offers tutorials on programming languages like Python, game development, and various tech-related topics.

3. FreeCodeCamp
   FreeCodeCamp
   An extensive platform with free coding tutorials and courses covering web development, JavaScript, Python, and more.

4. Codecademy
   Codecademy
   An interactive platform offering coding lessons in various programming languages and web development, suitable for beginners and intermediate learners.

5. W3Schools
   W3Schools
   A comprehensive resource for learning web development technologies, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and SQL, with interactive coding examples.

Additional Resources

1. DigitalLearn.org
   DigitalLearn
   Offers free courses on digital literacy skills, including basic computing, online safety, and productivity software.

2. Skillshare
   Skillshare
   An online learning community with courses on graphic design, web development, and other creative skills (some courses require a subscription).

3. Coursera
    Coursera
    Provides access to courses from universities and institutions on topics like computer science, graphic design, and data           analysis (some courses are free).

Here are several books, articles, journals, and other resources that can help students deepen their understanding of computing and digital media, extending their exploration beyond the curriculum:

Books

1. “Computer Science Distilled: Learn the Art of Solving Computational Problems” by Wladston Ferreira Filho

   • A concise guide that covers fundamental concepts of computer science, emphasizing problem-solving skills.

2. “Python Crash Course: A Hands-On, Project-Based Introduction to Programming” by Eric Matthes

   • An accessible introduction to programming with Python, filled with practical projects that help solidify learning.

3. “The Design of Everyday Things” by Don Norman

   • A classic book that delves into design principles, usability, and user experience, essential for students interested in graphic design and UX/UI.

4. “Understanding Comics: The Invisible Art” by Scott McCloud

   • An insightful exploration of the comics medium, covering theory, storytelling, and character development, beneficial for students in the Characters & Comics unit.

5. “Coding Projects in Scratch” by Jon Woodcock

   • A practical guide for beginners to create fun and engaging projects using Scratch, ideal for reinforcing skills learned in programming.

Articles and Journals

1. “The Computing Teacher” (Journal)

   • This journal offers articles on teaching strategies, technology integration, and innovative practices in computer science education.

2. “Communications of the ACM” (Association for Computing Machinery)

   • A leading journal that covers current trends, research, and developments in the computing field.

3. “Journal of Digital Media & Policy”

   • Explores the relationship between digital media and policy, providing insights into ethical considerations and media impact.

Online Resources

1. edX
   edX
   Offers free online courses from top universities on various topics, including computer science, digital media, and graphic design.

2. Khan Academy
   Khan Academy
   Provides extensive resources and courses on computer programming, algorithms, and more, encouraging self-paced learning.

3. TED Talks
   TED Talks
   Search for talks related to technology, innovation, and creativity to inspire students and expose them to industry leaders’ ideas.

4. Medium
   Medium
   A platform where professionals share articles on technology, design, and programming trends, allowing students to explore real-world applications of their studies.

Podcasts

1. “Coding Blocks”

   • A podcast focused on software development and programming best practices, ideal for students interested in software engineering.

2. “The Design Better Podcast”

   • Discusses design principles and practices with industry leaders, perfect for students interested in UX/UI and graphic design.

3. “Hello Internet”

   • A light-hearted podcast that covers various topics, including technology and internet culture, encouraging critical thinking and discussion.