ICT at Key Stage 3
The principal aims of ICT in Year 7 are to develop the pupils’ awareness of the use of computers in society and to develop their confidence in the use of a wide range of software packages. They extend their knowledge of movie making, word processing, presentation skills, spreadsheets, databases and desk top publishing techniques through activities such as making presentations and leaflets about Endangered Animals. They use spreadsheets in a “Harry Plotter” project and produce charts illustrating their results. They also create and interrogate databases based on various subjects such as “Superheroes”. Pupils are also taught how to surf the internet and be aware of the dangers of using modern technology through producing movies on E-safety.
During Year 8 in our first unit of work develops their movie making skills, they are encouraged to capture images and sounds and produce movies on a given theme or topic. In a unit of work on public Information Systems girls develop an information service about weather. They use a range of ICT and other sources to complete an analysis of their data. This is followed by a web site design project in which the girls design a website, often on a cross curricular topic. They are also taught about the dangers of the Internet and are advised on how to keep them safe online. We also revisit areas covered in Year 7, such as spreadsheets, in order to develop and extend skills taught. New technologies are constantly introduced into the curriculum such as Bluetooth technology, animation techniques and Wiki’s.
Year 9 focuses on a Control Technology project based around the area of themeparks. Girls get the opportunity to create mimics of a water ride. They then add sensors and controls to the mimic before constructing flowcharts in order to operate their designs. They also get a chance to create their own games using Game Maker software.