See our Computer Science Curriculum below at Bentley Wood for KS3, KS4 and KS5
Course Aims:
The Computer Science course at Bentley Wood aims to develop computational thinking and help students apply that thinking to solve problems practically using programming and other skills. Through a range of exciting, relevant, and challenging topics we ensure that every student can really push themselves and find out more about how computers work.
We have a large focus on programming in Key Stage 3 and our students use Kodu, Micro:Bits and Python to create a range of different projects. We also promote creativity amongst our students and have a range of topics that allow them to develop their digital literacy and problem-solving skills for their future careers.
Course Content:
Trips and visits:
Where possible, external speakers will visit the school to talk on how to enrich and enhance the curriculum which in the past have included speakers from Google and media companies. We also actively partake in the annual BIMA Digital Day where students work on a range of computer-based challenges, equipping our students with core life skills including teamwork and problem solving.
Enrichment:
Key Stage 4 & 5 / Career Progression:
Key Stage 3 computing develops the core skills essential to progress onto GCSE Computer Science which in turn lays the foundation for A-Level Computer Science. There are countless career opportunities in Computer Science including engineering, robotics, medicine, physics, maths and many that do not even exist yet!
Recommended Reading:
https://www.codecademy.com/ https://www.w3schools.com/ https://edublocks.org/ https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/examspecs/zmtchbk https://code.org/ https://makecode.microbit.org/
Examining Board: OCR (J277)
Aim of Course
This course helps to develop students understanding of current and emerging technologies, understanding of how they work and apply this knowledge in a range of contexts. Students acquire some technical skills and an understanding of the use of algorithms in computer programs to solve problems using programming. They use their knowledge of technology to become independent users of IT and be able to make informed decisions about the use of different technologies. Students have the chance to develop computer programs to solve problems and develop the skills to work collaboratively. They also be able to evaluate the effectiveness of computer programs/solutions and the impact of, and issues related to, the use of computer technology in society.
Content
The computer systems and algorithms unit teaches students the theory about a wide range of issues such as hardware and software, the representation of data in computer systems, databases, computer communications and networking, programming and more.
All students are given the opportunity to undertake a programming task or tasks during their course of study that will allow them to develop their skills in designing, writing, testing and refining computer programs.
Method of Assessment
Written Paper Examination:
Paper 1 50% Computer Systems Paper 2 50% Computational thinking, algorithms, and programming
Recommended Reading
Enrichment
Key Stage 5 Progression/ Career Prospects
Revision Guides
Is Computing the subject for you?
The course is not just about learning to use tools or training in a programming language. At its core will be an emphasis on computational thinking. Computational thinking is a kind of reasoning used by both humans and machines. The course is not about learning to use tools or just training in a programming language.
Course content
The course covers a range of topics including software and its development, types of programming languages, programming and problem solving and pattern recognition, abstraction and decomposition.
Methods of study
Students will learn about computing concepts theoretically and practically. Lessons will vary from week to week and practical work will be completed frequently including a programming project. Students also have the opportunity to research and present findings back to the class as well as delivering topics themselves to other students.
How will it be examined?
AS qualification will not count towards the final grade of an A Level and be a separate qualification in its own right (Linear).
Career opportunities
This specification has been designed for students who wish to go on to higher education courses or employment where knowledge of computing would be beneficial. One can study computing and go on to a career in medicine, law, business, engineering or any type of Science. This course, with its emphasis on abstract thinking, general problem solving, algorithmic and mathematical reasoning, scientific and engineering-based thinking, is a good foundation for further study.
Main textbook used:
Recommended revision resources:
Recommended websites:
