S3/S4 course description

Standard Grade Computing Studies

Standard Grade Computing is a well established course which comprehensively covers the many aspects of the computer through its applications and implications. It offers pupils a foundation in practical computing which will benefit them in further or higher education as well as their choice of career. The syllabus focuses on three broad areas using a variety of student centred materials supported by modern multimedia PCs with access to PC based resources and the Internet.

1. APPLICATIONS

General Purpose Packages

Pupils will study through practical activities a set of application programs, including:

Also covered is the related background and systems which support such software as well as their integration with each other.

Industrial and Commercial Applications

This topic covers automation and commercial data processing. Automation includes the study of robotics, computer automation and of control systems encompassing the hardware software and their implications to industry and society.

Commercial data processing explores the commercial use and large scale data processing techniques used in business with the varied hardware and software associated with such an application.

Communications and Networks

This topic covers the growing area of communications, the technologies involved and issues related to it such as security, the law and social issues.

2. PROGRAMMING

Using the computer language Visual Basic, pupils will learn programming techniques and style to enable them to solve problems. Programming exercises will be used to allow students to progress to a suitable level to attempt coursework.

3. COMPUTER SYSTEMS

In most cases this topic will be ongoing throughout the applications area where pupils will study particular systems as and when the occasion arises.

PROJECTS & COURSEWORK

During the course pupils will compile a folio of work:

This will be used to assign a grade for Practical Abilities.

EXAMINATIONS

Pupils will sit examinations assessing Knowledge and Understanding and Problem Solving at the end of the course. These will be used to provide students with an overall grade for the subject along with the afore­mentioned Practical Abilities grade.

SUPPORT

The department offers regular study support at lunchtime.

PROGRESSION

Computing at Higher level is available to those pupils that attain a CREDIT level pass at Standard Grade. Pupils with a GENERAL award can go on to study Computing at Intermediate 2 level .

DIGITAL MEDIA COMPUTING UNITS

Purpose:  Digital Media Computing is to provide an opportunity for pupils of all abilities to investigate specific topics which may be of interest to them. Their reasons could simply be the enjoyment of using digital media or something more serious, perhaps the first steps to a college course in Digital Media Computing.

Recommended Entry:  While entry is at the discretion of the centre, candidates would normally be expected to have S1/2 ICT experience.

Course Details:  The course consists of three units of study each of 40 hours in length. These units are selected from the optional units from the NC course in Digital Media Computing. The following units are available in the school.

F1JY 10 Digital Media: Still Images Acquisition (SCQF level 4) 1 credit

The overall aim of this Unit is to enable candidates to undertake the acquisition of digital still images to meet the requirements of a specified brief. The Unit is largely practical and provides candidates with the knowledge and understanding to identify the image requirements of the specified brief and plan a strategy for the acquisition of the images. The Unit provides opportunities for candidates to develop basic skills in the capture, storage and presentation of images in a range of formats. Candidates should use the skills outlined to create a portfolio of images. This Unit is designed for candidates who require knowledge and practical experience of still image acquisition from a variety of sources.

F1JW 10 Digital Media: Video Acquisition (SCQF level 4) 1 credit

The purpose of this Unit is to allow candidates to undertake the acquisition of a short digital video sequence to meet the requirements of a specified brief. Candidates will be required to devise a script or storyboard to meet the requirements of the brief, plan a strategy for the acquisition of digital video material and then acquire it. They will edit and present the edited sequence in a format appropriate to the specified brief. This Unit is suitable for candidates with an interest in digital video wishing to acquire skills in the acquisition and editing of digital video.

F181 11 Computing: Web Design Fundamentals (SCQF level 5) 1 credit

This Unit is designed to develop knowledge and understanding of the main technical and design considerations in developing websites. The Unit also develops practical skills in the creation of web pages and graphics for use on the World Wide Web.  This Unit is aimed at candidates who have an interest in using graphics in webpage design. While the Unit is suitable for candidates who have no prior experience of web design, it would be of benefit to candidates to have some experience of using computer application software and familiarity with managing computer files.

F0H5 10 - Internet Safety (SCQF level 4) 1 credit

The Unit is designed to enable candidates to make safe and legal use of the Internet. The Unit will provide candidates with information about the safety factors and legal considerations which need to be taken into account when using the Internet, and give candidates practical experience in taking safety precautions and operating within legal constraints. The contents of this Unit include dealing with unwanted e-mail, protecting against identity theft, and protecting systems against viruses and other threats. This free-standing Unit is suitable for a wide range of candidates and is particularly appropriate for young people.

F1K4 10 - Computer Games: Digital Gaming Design (SCQF level 4) 1 credit

This Unit is designed to enable users to acquire an understanding of underlying concepts and fundamental principals involved in digital gaming. The candidate will learn how to recognise and distinguish differences in numerous gaming platforms, environments and genres. Candidates will be introduced to methods used to evaluate different gaming genres through active game play.  This Unit is appropriate for anyone who wants to make considered use of multimedia-based systems.

Assessment:

Unit assessment

Unit assessment consists of a multiple choice knowledge test and a practical skills checklist. The knowledge test is a closed book test, under supervision, lasting no more than 45 minutes. The practical skills can be demonstrated through completion of set tasks.

Prelim Examination and SQA exams.

There is no prelim exam and no external exam in May. All assessments are carried out in school and are subject to the same moderation procedures as any other SQA exam.

Homework

Homework will not be theory based but more preparation for practical work.

Progression

For pupils who have successfully completed this course, progression to complete a college Digital Media Computing course may be possible.