Information Communication Technology Department Year 10 Information

GCSE Information Communication Technology

An exciting new two-year course in Information Communication Technology is offered to pupils. It is similar to the Information Studies course which has been very popular during the past five years. Former pupils who have studied the subject have been very successful. Many have attained high grades and progressed to take the subject further by opting for Computer studies, Computer Programming, Information Systems or Information Technology at A or AS level at a sixth form college. Even those pupils who do not wish to progress to a higher level using their computer skills are pleased that they have opted for the subject as they can gain credit for the IT key skills often required by the colleges.

During the two-year course pupils will learn the skills of word-processing, databases, spreadsheets, desktop publishing,presentation and graphics, the Internet, emailing and setting up a data system. These skills will be taught through hands-on experience and throught the context of Business Studies.

Key features of the Information & Communication Technology GCSE specification:

Evidence requirements include teacher observation.
Contexts from the world of work can be used as a valuable part of the underpinning knowledge and understanding of ICT.
An externally set, internally marked Timed Practical Task provides an avenue for students to demonstrate their personal ability in ICT.
Key Skills Test (Level One or Level Two), which enables candidates to achieve an IT Key Skills Award.
Provides an integration of the IT Key Skills (including the External Test) that could lead directly towards a Key Skills Award.
The nature and breadth of the spcification provides a suitable foundation for students who intend to study Information and Communication at higher levels.

The specification consists of the following units of assessment.

Coursework Portfolio 40%
Timed Practical Task 20%

Terminal Examination 40%

IT Key Skills External Test Level or Level 2 (1 hour)
Terminal Examination Foundation Tier (1 hour)
or Higher Tier (1.5 hours)

Foundation Tier - Grades C - G
Higher Tier - Grades A* - D

The Examination Board who will oversee the course is the Northern Ireland Council for the Curriculum Examinations (CCEA) and the Assessment and the International Curriculum and Assessment Agency (ICAA).