Information Technology
Welcome to the ICT page
What We Teach / Aims
Information and Communication Technology is concerned with developing the students’ ability to understand the modern world and to be able to communicate ideas and handle information effectively. The students learn to use a variety of software packages and should be capable, by the end of the Key Stage, of working independently with a computer to gain access to, manipulate, interrogate information and present their findings in a format suitable for use and audience. We introduce the students to large and small databases, including Internet-based datasets and those found of CD-ROM’s. We show students how computer models can help to predict the future and help them to solve problems with unknown variables. Students explore how to set up models and learn how to enter rules and instruction sets and we explore ways in which information can be communicated to others. In particular, students begin to appreciate how this information can be used to influence others. Students learn how to use Word Processing, Presentation, Spreadsheet Modelling, Database, Web Design and Desktop-Publishing packages. Finally, students study how computers are used to control and monitor their environments and begin to appreciate just how precise the instructions have to be.
What do students learn in ICT?
Students cover a wide range of topics and learn to exploit computer technology through the use of a wide range of computer applications. Students will learn how computer technology can assist them, to be able to discriminate when the use of computers is appropriate and beneficial.
KS3 (National Strategy)
Students learn the basic skills necessary to utilise the full power of the computer as a learning and creative tool. Year 7 students will received 3 hours fortnightly of discrete ICT learning. Year 8 and 9 students will receive 1 hour per week. At Year 9, students will commence their GCSE coursework. This will give them an additional time to complete their GCSE coursework by the end of year 11.
KS4
All students continue to extend their IT skills completing either a one or two GCSEs from the Key Stage 4 ICT courses we are running. Currently, we offer two courses: OCR Nationals or DIDA by Edexcel, depending on ability and time available. Students have the opportunity to demonstrate their skills in a wide range of computer applications within the coursework components. The student’s coursework currently provides 100% of their final grade as both courses are considered to be vocational courses.
At Key Stage 4, if the student has opted ICT as one of their optional subjects, they will receive 7 lessons fortnightly. As a core subject, the student will receive two lessons fortnightly.
Homework
It is the school and department policy that the student completes the homework set by the class teacher. Homework is used to prepare students for the subsequent lesson or in some cases, to assess the delivery and understanding of a particular topic. Your support in making sure your child has completed their homework on time is crucial.
