Computing Science - National 5
SCQF Framework
SCQF Level: 5
SCQF Credit Points: 24
Skills Framework
Delivering Centre
Vale of Leven Academy
Purpose and Aims
The course helps candidates to understand computational processes and thinking. It covers a number of unifying themes that are used to explore a variety of specialist areas, through practical and investigative tasks.
The course highlights how computing professionals are problem-solvers and designers, and the far-reaching impact of information technology on our environment and society.
It enables candidates to:
- apply computational-thinking skills across a range of contemporary contexts
- apply knowledge and understanding of key concepts and processes in computing science
- apply skills and knowledge in analysis, design, implementation, testing and evaluation to a range of digital solutions
- communicate computing concepts and explain computational behaviour clearly and concisely using appropriate terminology
- develop an understanding of the role and impact of computing science in changing and influencing our environment and society
Recommended Entry
It would be beneficial if candidates have achieved the fourth curriculum level or the National 4 Computing Science course or equivalent qualifications and/or experience prior to starting this course.
Progression
This Course or its Units may provide progression to:
- other qualifications in computing science or related areas
- further study, employment and/or training
Career Options
Further Information
Course Content
The course has four areas of study:
Software design and development
Candidates develop knowledge, understanding and practical problem-solving skills in software design and development, through a range of practical and investigative tasks using appropriate software development environments. This develops their programming and computational-thinking skills by implementing practical solutions and explaining how these programs work. Tasks involve some complex features (in both familiar and new contexts), that require some interpretation by candidates. They are expected to analyse problems, and design, implement, test and evaluate their solutions.
Computer systems
Candidates develop an understanding of how data and instructions are stored in binary form and basic computer architecture. They gain an awareness of the environmental impact of the energy use of computing systems and security precautions that can be taken to protect computer systems.
Database design and development
Candidates develop knowledge, understanding and practical problem-solving skills in database design and development, through a range of practical and investigative tasks. This allows candidates to apply computational-thinking skills to analyse, design, implement, test, and evaluate practical solutions, using a range of development tools such as SQL. Tasks involve some complex features (in both familiar and new contexts), that require some interpretation by candidates.
Web design and development
Candidates develop knowledge, understanding and practical problem-solving skills in web design and development, through a range of practical and investigative tasks. This allows candidates to apply computational-thinking skills to analyse, design, implement, test and evaluate practical solutions to web-based problems, using a range of development tools such as HTML, CSS and Javascript. Tasks involve some complex features (in both familiar and new contexts), that require some interpretation by candidates.
Course Assessment Structure
Question paper 110 marks
The question paper has a total mark allocation of 110 marks. This is 69% of the overall marks for the course assessment.
Marks are distributed across all four areas of study:
- software design and development approximately 40%
- computer systems approximately 10%
- database design and development approximately 25%
- web design and development approximately 25%
The question paper has two sections
Section 1 has 25 marks and consists of short-answer, restricted response questions from across the four areas of the course.
Section 2 has 85 marks and consists of structured questions consisting of restricted and extended response questions from across the four areas of the course.
Candidates have 2 hours to complete the question paper.
Assignment 50 marks
The assignment gives candidates an opportunity to demonstrate the following skills, knowledge and understanding:
- applying aspects of computational thinking across a range of contexts
- analysing problems within computing science across a range of contemporary contexts
- designing, implementing, testing and evaluating digital solutions (including computer programs) to problems across a range of contemporary contexts
- demonstrating skills in computer programming
- applying computing science concepts and techniques to create solutions across a range of contexts
The assignment has a total mark allocation of 50 marks. This is 31% of the overall marks for the course assessment. The assignment has three distinct tasks, with marks distributed across the following areas of study:
- software design and development 25 marks
- database design and development 10–15 marks
- web design and development 10–15 marks
The assignment is set on an annual basis and is conducted under open book conditions. It is marked externally by the SQA. The assignment must be carried out within 8 hours.