We believe that a better understanding of computing enables students to make better sense of the ever growing and more complex digital world around them. Our course at Lower School allows our students to develop key ICT, programming and digital technology skills as well as develop logical and computational thinking and problem solving.
We are also delighted to have the Computing Department supported by our own website. This covers key points of the Lower School and Upper School course with assessment information, lesson objectives and further supporting information to enable to the students to have key information available first hand.
This is available at http://www.mrcottle.co.uk
Subject Specific Skills
In Lower School Computing lessons, students are expected to demonstrate a range of core ICT and problem solving skills. These are further learnt and developed through our curriculum and enrichment opportunities. Computing skills are central to the development of other subjects such as the Sciences and Technology.
Computing Resources
Assessment in Lower School Computing
How We Assess?
All assessments in Computing take the form of mid and end of unit assessments and projects.
Grades available are:
Flightpath | Assessment Grade | Aiming for final GCSE Grade |
---|---|---|
Mastering | Mastering + Mastering Mastering - | 9 8 7 |
Rising | Rising + Rising Rising - | 6 5 4 |
Emerging | Emerging + Emerging Emerging - | 3 2 1 |
When We Assess?
Students sit end of module tests and also project work at key points throughout the year.
Marking of Students Work and Feedback
Student books are taken in by the class teacher at least three times per term (based on a standard 6-week term).
Assessment feedback sheets are used as part of the assessment marking process at the end of each term. Staff comments provide guidance on how students can improve their level of understanding. Staff are expected to review all peer assessed and self-assessed work and provide guidance when necessary. Marking guidance is included as part of the tracking sheet at the front of every student book.
Homework
Computing homework is set on a weekly basis and students should expect to spend approximately 30 mins on each homework in Y7 and 45 mins in Y8. Students will record homework in their planners and teachers will share via SIMS Learning Gateway, the details of what has been set and when it is due to be handed in.
Supporting Your Daughter in Lower School Computing
There are a number of ways you can support your daughter with her work:
- Always pay a keen interest in what she is doing in her computing lessons, often she will be able to show you what she is working on
- Ask her to explain the most recent topic she has covered in computing to you
- Give a lot of praise and encouragement for the work she does
- Encourage her to read some of the many computing periodicals that are available
Revision and Support Materials