Curriculum & Courses
S1 – S3 BGE
The S1-S2 course is designed to provide pupils with a general introduction to Computing terms and concepts. It also encourages pupils to consider how to keep themselves and their computer safe when they are working and particularly when they are online.
The S3 course is designed to provide pupils with a sound basis for further study. In class pupils are given a brief introduction to the theory which is followed by practical tasks.
Both courses are designed with Curriculum for Excellence outcomes and experiences in mind.
Topics studied in S1 – S3 include:
- Internet Safety
- Programming – Hour of Code
- PowerPoint (Whole school ICT)
- Programming – Logo
- Computer Systems
- Animation
- Programming – Microbit
- Computer Games Development
- Web Design
- Programming – Visual Basic
- Cyber Security
- Database Systems
National 4 Computing Science
The course consists of two units:
Information Systems Design
This unit has two outcomes which are assessed at appropriate times during the course. The first outcome involves developing a simple information system using appropriate development tools. The second outcome is a written report which considers the factors involved in the design and implementation of an information system.
Development and Software Design and Development
This unit has three outcomes which are also assessed at appropriate times. The first outcome is a short test designed to allow the pupils to draw on their understanding of basic concepts in software development and explain how simple programs work. The second outcome involves developing short programs featuring a range of data types and constructs. The final outcome is a written report which describes in detail a contemporary software-based application.
As there is no external examination for the National 4 course, there is no need for pupils to undertake additional end-of-topic tests to re-inforce their knowledge and understanding of the concepts.
There is, however, a Value Added Unit that must be satisfactorily completed. This unit encompasses elements of both Information Systems Design and Development and Software Design and Development
National 5 & Higher Computing Science
The course has four areas of study:
Software Design and Development
Candidates develop knowledge, understanding and practical problem-solving skills in software design and development, througha range of practical and investigativetasks using appropriate software development environments. This develops their programming and computational-thinking skills by implementing practical solutions and explaining how these programs work. Tasks involve some complex features (in both familiar and new contexts), thatrequire some interpretation by candidates. They are expected to analyse problems,and design, implement, test and evaluate their solutions.
Computer Systems
Candidatesdevelop an understanding of how data and instructions are stored in binary formandbasic computer architecture.They gain an awareness ofthe environmental impact of the energy use of computing systems and security precautions that can be taken to protect computer systems.
Database Design and Development
Candidatesdevelop knowledge, understanding and practical problem-solving skills indatabasedesign and development,through a range of practical and investigative tasks. This allows candidates toapply computational-thinking skills toanalyse, design,implement, test, and evaluatepractical solutions,using a range of development toolssuch as SQL.
Web Design and Development
Candidatesdevelop knowledge, understanding and practical problem-solving skills inwebdesign and development,through a range of practical and investigative tasks. This allows candidates toapply computational-thinking skills toanalyse, design,implement, test and evaluatepractical solutionsto web-based problems,using a range of development toolssuch as HTML, CSS and Javascript.
NPA Computer Games Development
Computer games are being used increasingly for leisure, in education and work-based training with players interacting via a variety of mediums.
Computer gaming is now a growing industry, with Scotland one of the global leaders. These companies rely on a range of creative skills such as art, design, animation, audio and programming which this course develops.
Skills developed in this course are critical thinking, problem solving abilities, communication and team working, which are essential in a modern business environment.
The awards provide a foundation in the knowledge and skills of Computer Games Development that will be necessary if you intend to pursue a career in Computer Games Development, Digital Media Studies, Computing Science and IT subjects.
It is recognised that candidates who demonstrate the basic Core Skills coupled with an understanding of the use of digital technology are more likely to gain employment than those with just IT skills alone.
The course opens the lens on the computer gaming industry and allows the pupils to take an in depth look at what is involved in the production of computer games.