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ICT (Information and Communication Technology)

ICT at Clifton is a high priority, both as a subject within its own right and as an educational resource for all subjects. A state of the art network of some 400 PC's place ICT at the heart of the teaching and learning across the whole College.

Head of Academic ICT
Dr Darron Dean MA PhD
Director of Office Services
Mr Colin Lewis BSc

The Third Form ICT curriculum is designed to develop all the research, presentation and data handling skills students will need for their GCSEs and beyond. We also look in detail at using the internet safely and responsibly.

Term 1 focuses on gathering, analysing and presenting data in a variety of tabular and graphic ways using spreadsheets and databases.

Term 2 focuses on research skills and presentation. Students undertake a research project which they present in the form of a business report. This includes conducting effective research using online sources, evaluating the quality of information sources, and presenting this in a professional manner.

Term 3: students undertake a multimedia project of their choice. This can take the form on an interactive or automated presentation. The project involves the manipulation of image, film and sound to create a sophisticated and engaging piece of work.

Throughout each term, the work is linked to projects being done across the curriculum to facilitate cross-curricular ICT and enable students to apply their skills in a variety of contexts.

G.C.S.E.

AQA Specification A

The increasing use of technology in all aspects of society makes confident, creative and productive use of information and communication technology (ICT) an essential skill for life. ICT capability encompasses not only the mastery of technical skills and techniques, but also the understanding to apply these skills purposefully, safely and responsibly in learning, everyday life and employment. ICT capability is fundamental to participation and engagement in modern society.

This course encourages the investigation and study of ICT in a variety of contexts, for example, home, school, recreation, community, business and industry. In these contexts, pupils are given opportunities to acquire competence, capability and critical skills through the creation, implementation, use and evaluation of a range of ICT systems.

The practical elements of this course consist of two problems set by the exam board, which students solve by analysing, designing and implementing an ICT solution. These typically involve a web site, spreadsheet, database and multimedia application.

The written component is made up of two parts: Tools, Techniques and Systems, and Information Systems in Society.

In addition to developing their practical skills, students will, therefore, gain a knowledge and understanding of how computer hardware and software works, and some of the wider issues surrounding ICT in society.

Assessment: coursework 60%; examination 40%.

Advanced ICT (AS Level)

This course is open to all students with an interest in developing their ICT skills to an Advanced Level. It will help them work more productively and understand some key concepts underpinning much ICT, such as developing software solutions to real problems in Unit 1, and studying the impact of ICT on society in Unit 2.

Students will be expected to work with a large degree of independence. This will enable them to pursue what they are interested in, but it means they must be motivated to develop their skills and knowledge in the areas covered.

Course structure

Students complete Unit 1 in the Lower Sixth, and Unit 2 in the Upper Sixth. Examinations are taken in the summer session of each year.

Unit 1: Practical Problem Solving in the Digital World
50% of AS
1 hour 30 minutes written examination
Section A: short answer questions
Section B: structured questions

Students also submit a report on a system they have developed during the year

Unit 2: Living in the Digital World
50% of AS
1 hour 30 minutes written examination
Section A: short answer questions
Section B: structured questions

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