KS4 - Computer Science

10

What students will learn

How it builds on learning

Data representation

• Binary and Hexadecimal number systems, conversions, and calculations
• Sound and image representation and storage
• Data compression

Sets up the foundation for understanding how computers work and the basis for all logic and constraints for designing storage, and programming computers.

Storage

• How data is stored in the main mediums of magnetic and optical storage, and SSDs.

Uses the knowledge about data representation to understand how data is stored for long term use, the mediums that can be used, and how they are used.

Memory, the CPU, and programming languages

• How memory is used within a computer system
• How processes occur within the fetch execute cycle using the von Neumann architecture
• Hierarchy of high- and low-level programming languages, and translation into machine code

Further extended knowledge on data and storage, extends knowledge to the understanding of computer memory, and how data and instructions form processes carried out by computers.

Logic

Boolean logic

Logic gates and circuits

Brings together the knowledge of binary representation and Boolean logic to lead into computational thinking.

Algorithms

• Principals of computational thinking and algorithm creation
• Data types and structures
• Programming constructs

Following on from the knowledge of logic circuits, and work done throughout KS3, algorithms are examined, and the basis of computational thinking is reinforced and extended.

Python Programming

• Creating simple algorithms in the Python programming language
• Writing extended programs that require the use of subroutines through structured programming

The Python programming language is revisited (having learnt its basics in Years 7 and 9) and extended to incorporate a fuller understanding of algorithmic solutions, data structures, and structured programming.

Networks and Cyber Security

• Wired and wireless networks
• Network protocols
• Security of Networks
• Cyber security threats and prevention/damage limitation

Networks, their benefits, and security issues are introduced.

11

What students will learn

How it builds on learning

Databases

• Relational databases
• SQL

Relational databases are introduced, and the SQL language is learnt, drawing on understanding of data types and structures from algorithms and Python programming.

Further Python Programming

• Consolidation and enhancing of Python programming

Software

• System software
• Application software

Different types of software are introduced, drawing on knowledge of the workings of a computer system.

Legal, ethical, and environmental issues

• The law surrounding computer and data usage
• Ethical issues that arise around computers
• The environmental impact of computers

The legal, ethical, and environmental issues surrounding computer and data usage are explored, drawing on knowledge of the workings and issues surrounding computer systems and networks.