The Course

The course gently guides the student through basic ICT skills, progressing onto more advanced material as the student's knowledge and abilities develop. It is divided into eight  modules closely linked to the structure of the AQA specification.

 

Each lesson begins with a set of clearly stated objectives and an explanation of its place in the overall programme of study.

Effective learning is encouraged through frequent activities and self-assessment questions.  Skills are developed in a number of standard software areas, including word-processing, graphics, spreadsheets, databases and modelling.

There are seven tutor-marked assignments and two practice exam papers.

The Syllabus

This course prepares students for AQA GCSE ICT syllabus 3522 for exams in 2005 and later years.   

Assessment is by two written papers (20% each) and two major coursework projects (60%) for which extensive guidance is given within the course. 

Special Requirements

It is assumed that students will have access to a PC and suitable software, for instance the Microsoft Office suite of programs. It is also expected that tutor-marked assignments will be transmitted electronically.

Coursework

Two coursework projects must be completed, each aimed at a different assessment objectives. One covers communicating and handling information, the other controlling, measuring and modelling. The course gives guidance for the completion of the coursework tasks.