Computing Science
Computing Science
What will I Learn?
In S3, you'll dive deeper into the fascinating field of Coputing Science. You'll learn about the websites you visit, the databases that store information, the software that brings your devices to life, and the intricate systems that make it all work seamlessly.
What skills with I develop?
You'll develop problem-solving and computational thinking skills, helping you think logically and creatively.
You'll learn to communicate clearly and concisely, both with computers through code and with others.
What could be helpful?
While there's no one-size-fits-all profile, those curious about technology and eager to learn will find Computing Science particularly rewarding.
Don't be afraid if things get tricky - Computing Science is all about embracing the challenge and persisting through obstacles.
Passion and a willingness to explore are the most important ingredients for success in this ever-evolving field.
Is there is an Exam?
There are no formal assessment in S3. But your teacher will provide feedback on key learning activities throughout the year. This will give you a clear idea of how your are progressing.
What comes next?
In S4, you will continue onto either National 4 or National 5 Computing Science. National 4 is an internally assessed course, whereas National 5 is externally assessed by the SQA. The assessments in National 4 include a number of outcome assessments, whereas National 5 consists of a practical assignment and an exam.
Where can this take me?
S3 Computing Science provides the foundation for National 5 & Higher Computing Science.
Beyond school you may wish to study a particular area of Computing Science at College or University … for example Software Development, Cyber Security or Data Science.
There are loads of Career Opportunities … you could be a Software Engineer for Tik Tok, a Web Engineer for Asos or Cyber Security Analyst for Police Scotland.
What will I Learn?
You'll learn the basics of how computers work, like how they store and process information.
You'll discover how to write simple computer programs.
You'll learn to design and create simple databases and websites.
You'll understand how to keep information safe and secure online.
What skills with I develop?
Problem-solving: You'll learn to break down problems into smaller steps and find creative solutions.
Creativity: You'll design and build your own digital projects.
Teamwork: You might work on projects with other students.
Communication: You'll learn to explain your ideas and solutions clearly.
Critical thinking: You'll analyze information and make informed decisions.
What could be helpful?
Interest in technology: If you enjoy playing video games, using computers, or building things, this course might be for you!
Logical thinking: If you like puzzles and figuring things out, you'll likely enjoy the problem-solving aspects.
Basic computer skills: Familiarity with using a computer and the internet will be helpful.
Is there is an Exam?
No, there isn't a separate exam for National 4 Computing Science.
You'll be assessed through coursework and projects that you complete during the year.
What comes next?
If you enjoy National 4, you can continue your studies by taking National 5 Computing Science.
National 5 builds on the skills and knowledge you learn at National 4.
Where can this take me?
Further education: You could study subjects like software development, web design, game design, or cybersecurity at college or university.
Careers: Computing skills are valuable in many careers, including software engineering, web development, data analysis, and many more.
Everyday life: You'll gain a better understanding of how technology works in our world, which will be helpful in your personal and professional life.
What will I Learn?
National 5 Computing Science is organised into three units ...
Website Design & Development - in this unit you will learn to develop websites utilising HTML and CSS, you will also be introduced to JavaScript.
Software Design & Development - in this unit you will design, implement, test and evaluate a range of software solutions.
Computer Systems - in this you will discover how a computer works.
What skills with I develop?
You'll develop a range of valuable skills, including problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, and communication. You'll also learn how to design, implement, and test both software solutions and websites. These skills are highly transferable and can be applied to a variety of careers.
What could be helpful?
A basic knowledge of Computing Science would be useful, but not essential.
Is there is an Exam?
There are two assessed elements within National 5 Computing Science.
A practical assignment that you will complete during class time. This accounts for one third of your overall grade, and will include Software and Website tasks.
An Question Paper exam that you will complete during the SQA Exam Diet in May. This accounts for two thirds of your overall grade and will includes questions from all three units of the course.
What comes next?
After completing National 5 Computing Science you can continue onto Higher Computing Science.
You may wish to study NPA Level 6 Computer Games Development which is delivered in school or the FA Level 6 IT Hardware and Systems Support which is delivered as part of MACO.
Where can this take me?
Further education: You could study computer science, software engineering, cybersecurity, or other related fields at university or college.
Careers: Computing skills are highly in demand! You could pursue careers in software development, web development, data science, game development, and many other exciting fields.
Lifelong learning: You'll develop valuable skills that are transferable to many areas of life, from problem-solving and critical thinking to creativity and innovation..
What will I Learn?
Higher Computing Science is organised into three units ...
Website Design & Development - in this unit you will expand your knowledge and understanding of website development. You will implement websites with complex CSS, HTML Forms & JavaScript.
Software Design & Development - in this unit you will design, implement, test and evaluate a range of modular programs, that utilise file handling, parallel array and record structures.
Computer Systems - in this unit you will look at how a computer works in more detail.
What skills with I develop?
You'll develop a range of valuable skills, including problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, and communication. You'll also learn how to design, implement, and test both software solutions and websites. These skills are highly transferable and can be applied to a variety of careers.
What could be helpful?
Ideally you will have achieved National 5 Computing Science.
Alternatively you should have a pass in National 5 Mathematics, Applications of Mathematics or a Science.
Is there is an Exam?
Like National 5 Computing Science, there are two assessed elements within Higher Computing Science.
A practical assignment that you will complete during class time. This accounts for one third of your overall grade, and will include Software and Website tasks.
An Question Paper exam that you will complete during the SQA Exam Diet in May. This accounts for two thirds of your overall grade and will includes questions from all three units of the course.
What comes next?
After completing Higher Computing Science you can continue onto Advanced Higher Computing Science.
You may wish to study NPA Level 6 Computer Games Development which is delivered in school or the FA Level 6 IT Hardware and Systems Support which is delivered as part of MACO.
Where can this take me?
Exciting career paths: Higher Computing Science opens doors to many exciting careers in the rapidly growing tech industry.
Further education: It provides a strong foundation for further study in computer science and related fields at university.
Valuable skills: You'll develop highly valuable and transferable skills that are in demand in today's world, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity.
Students undertaking Advanced Higher Computing Science may be required to travel to Lasswade or Penicuik High School.
What will I Learn?
Advanced Higher Computing Science contains three units ...
Software Design & Development - in this unit you will be introduced to object-orientated programming techniques. You use the knowledge and skills developed to create efficient program to solve advanced problems.
Website Design & Development - in this unit you will further develop you website development skills. You will be introduced to PHP, CSS Media Queries and HTML Form processing.
Databases Design & Development - as you've not studied Databases as part of National 5 or Higher Computing Science, you will be introduced to the SQL required to create and query relational databases. You then incorporate the knowledge and skills developed in this unit with either Software application or Website.
What skills with I develop?
Advanced programming: You'll become a highly skilled programmer, able to write complex and efficient programs.
Problem-solving: You'll tackle challenging problems and develop creative and innovative solutions.
Critical thinking: You'll analyze complex systems, identify potential problems, and develop effective solutions.
Independent research: You'll conduct in-depth research, learn new concepts independently, and solve complex problems on your own.
Communication and teamwork: You'll effectively communicate your ideas and work collaboratively with others.
What could be helpful?
Strong foundation in Higher Computing Science: This course builds upon the knowledge and skills you gained in Higher Computing Science.
Passion for programming: You should have a strong interest in programming and enjoy the challenge of solving complex problems.
Logical and analytical thinking: You'll need excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to succeed in this course.
Independent learning: You'll need to be a self-directed learner, able to research new concepts and work independently on projects.
Is there is an Exam?
There are two assessed elements within Advanced Higher Computing Science.
Through-out the year you will complete a Project, this accounts for two thirds your overall grade. This project will be submitted to the SQA for external marking. The project is self directed and you will decide upon the focus of your project, with support from a teacher. Your project must incorporate the skills and knowledge that you have gained from two units. For example, a database-driven website.
In May you will complete the Question Paper, this accounts for a third of your overall grade. You will be required to answer questions that asses your knowledge and skills of Software Design & Development and Website Design & Development.
What comes next?
If you successfully complete Advanced Higher Computing Science, you have several exciting options:
University: You could pursue a degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, or other related fields at a top university.
Career: You could enter the workforce in a variety of high-demand roles, such as software engineer, data scientist, web developer, or cybersecurity analyst.
Where can this take me?
Exciting career paths: Higher Computing Science opens doors to many exciting careers in the rapidly growing tech industry.
Further education: It provides a strong foundation for further study in computer science and related fields at university.
Valuable skills: You'll develop highly valuable and transferable skills that are in demand in today's world, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity.