Lower Line ICT

GCSE

Why choose ICT?

The development of computers and information technology has enabled huge changes in our way of life over the last 20 years. Drive your car, go to the shops, download a TV show, design a new building, send a photograph to your auntie in Australia, sequence some DNA, buy new shoes – the list is endless and all involve using ICT - often in ways that were undreamt  20 years ago.

 

We can’t predict the future, but we can be sure that ICT will continue to change how we live, work, play and study far into the present century and beyond. It’s become a cliché, but we do now live in the Information Age – an age when the ability to develop and harness the power of information and communication technology will be a major influence on our personal effectiveness and the effectiveness of the societies in which we live.

 

Course Content

A GCSE course cannot possibly cover “everything you need to know” about ICT, but we have tried to select a course that will allow pupils to:

  • Become independent and discerning users of ICT, able to make informed decisions about its use and aware of its implications for individuals, organisations and society.
  • Develop high level skills in the use of a range of common ICT packages,
  • Experience the use of ICT as a tool to solve a range of problems.
  • Understand current and emerging technologies and their social and commercial impact.
  • Gain an understanding of the legal, social, economic, ethical and environmental issues raised by ICT
  • Recognise potential risks when using ICT, and develop safe, secure and responsible practice.

We have also selected a course with a major focus on practical work - using ICT to develop skills and solve problems. This “learning by doing” approach should provide a good balance in a pupil’s academic timetable.

 

Assessment

Coursework/Controlled Assessment                     60%

Examination                                                                     40%

Opportunities for Further Study

GCSE ICT is an excellent preparation for A level study in Computing or ICT. It will also be invaluable in supporting study in all subjects at A level and beyond.

 

Examination Board:                  WJEC

 

Head of Department:                Mr P. Lea