Computing
Computing at Springwell aims to prepare students in a rapidly changing world where work and leisure activities are increasingly transformed by technology.
Key Stage 3
Throughout the unit, students are introduced to the world of computer programming.
We intend to do this by:
- Use of logical reasoning to compare the utility of alternative algorithms for the same problem.
- Understand simple logic [for example, AND, OR and NOT] and some of its uses in circuits and programming;
- Understand how numbers can be represented in binary, and be able to carry out simple operations on binary numbers [for example, binary addition, and conversion between binary and decimal].
- Understand the hardware and software components that make up computer systems, and how they communicate with one another and with other systems.
- Understand how instructions are stored and executed within a computer system.
- Understand a range of ways to use technology safely, respectfully, responsibly and securely, including protecting their online identity and privacy; recognise inappropriate content, contact and conduct and know how to report concerns.
Key Stage 4
Students will develop skills in defining requirements of solutions to program, by looking at developing theoretical knowledge within systems: architecture; memory; storage; wired and wireless networks; looking at the range of topologies and protocols that support the different layers; security and system software; the legal impacts and ethical concerns; looking at algorithms and computational logic and data representation.
Students will also develop their programming project using their analytical and methodical approach to the design of and development of programming code, including ongoing testing and evaluations.
