Information Communication Technology (Short Course GCSE)

What are the Key Features?
The course covers a wide range of practical and knowledge based ICT skills which provide the foundation for further work based training or entry into higher education.

How is the course taught?
The course is focused around 2 pieces of coursework and is a more traditional ICT course based upon a mixture of practical coursework using computers and knowledge based written examination papers taken at the end of Year 11.

Project 1 focuses on presentation skills and every student will be expected to produce a written publication which is fit for purpose and audience.

Project 2 teaches data handling and provides students with the opportunity to design and create their own database.

How is it assessed?
The coursework components make up 60% of the student’s marks. Hence a large amount of both lesson time and homework is given to them. During the coursework students will receive on going assessment guidance from staff and key issues will be highlighted on a one to one basis. Students are expected to respond to the advice given and if for any reason they fall behind then they will need to attend the lunchtime or after school catch up sessions which will run in conjunction with the main lessons.

The externally assessed exam consists of a written paper at either foundation or higher tier.

Why study this course?
This is a good general qualification for all students who may need ICT in the future for a vast range of career choices or if they wish to stay in education and take this subject further. Examples of further study include GCE ICT (as offered in the Sixth Form) or GCE Computer Science as offered by some Colleges.