Computing at Key Stage 3
In Key Stage 3 students are first introduced to our school computer systems and then taught about the importance of e-safety. Once students are confident in understanding the dangers of using modern technology, they will move forward onto a range of activities covering Digital Literacy, Computer Science and Information Technology.
Students will design, use and evaluate computational abstractions that model the state and behaviour of real-world problems and physical systems. They will use a variety of text-based programming languages which include Small Basic, Python and HTML. Students will understand how computers work by looking at the hardware that make up computer systems. They will begin to understand how various types of instructions are stored and executed in computer systems, and how they can be used to represent images, music and text.
Students will undertake creative projects that involve selecting, using, and combining multiple applications to achieve challenging goals. This includes collecting and analysing data and meeting the needs of known users. They will understand a range of ways to use technology safely, respectfully, responsibly and securely: including protecting their online identity and privacy; recognising inappropriate content, contact and conduct, and knowing how to report concerns.
Students will create a range of digital artefacts for a specific purpose such as presentations, videos and animations. These will be planned, designed and evaluated to allow students to reflect on their work and the skills they have gained. Students will learn how to use image editing software to manipulate and edit digital images.
As students get older the schemata will hopefully allow them to gain deeper knowledge with a greater understanding of contexts.
The curriculum delivered at Key Stage 3 will prepare students for subjects offered at Key Stage 4. Many transferable skills can be used with KS4 subjects outside of the computing department.
