The focus of the subject has shifted this year towards Computer Science. It is a very exciting time in the department as we are learning about how computers work and how software programs are developed.
Key Stage 3
Every pupil at Lewis Boys school studies Computing for two hours a fortnight.
Year 7 – Pupils focus on developing their Computing, ICT, Literacy and Numeracy skills. The emphasis in the first year is to learn about: staying safe online, how computers work, the basics of programming, Modelling and Data Handling.
Year 8 – Pupils learn about how computers work, the basics of programming using Small Basic, Data Handling, networks, how to program using HTML and game making in Kodu.
Year 9 – Pupils learn about how computers work, consequences of the digital world, algorithms and code, the basics of programming using Small Basic and Python, computer troubleshooting, website creation with HTML and apps creation for modern technology.
Key Stage 4
From September 2014, pupils have been able to choose either Computing or ICT at GCSE Level. Both courses are taught to WJEC exam specifications.
ICT – Information Communication Technology is using software skills to undertake two substantial coursework projects. The use of software applications to design, create and test user required systems. Examinations are taken in the summer of Year 11 in order gain a GCSE grade.
Computing – Uses programming skills to design, create and test actual programs. There is one substantial coursework project where the pupil will design, create and test a computer program that is built to match an end users requirements. Examination and online assessments are taken in the summer of Year 11 in order to gain a GCSE grade.
Key Stage 5
At present both AS/A2 ICT and Computing are offered through our Consortium partner schools. The courses followed are WJEC and consist of a coursework and examination element. All resources for both courses can be found in the shared area of the Lewis network or on our HWB resource pages. It is hoped that Lewis School will be able to offer both courses in the very near future.
Lessons, assessment tasks and useful links are available through our VLE called the ‘HWB’. All pupils have access to lesson materials and homework’s etc. from any internet capable device with their login details. It is the aim of the department to remove the need for paperwork and therefore all pupils will submit their work to the HWB for assessment via a ‘dropbox’ or email feature. Teacher feedback will be electronic.