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Year 10 Computing

Autumn Term

week 1

Lesson 1

Translators

TranslatorsIn this lesson, we will learn that computers need clear and precise instructions in order to perform the expected task. We will also be taken on a journey from machine code to high-level languages in order to discover how a computer interprets instructions.

Lesson 2

Sequence

SequenceIn this lesson, we will be introduced to a Python IDE. We will learn about the function of an IDE and why programmers use these to write programs. We will be given some simple code to predict, run, investigate, and modify. Whilst we take our first steps in Python programming, we will also learn about common errors and error types.

week 2

Lesson 1

Variables

VariablesIn this lesson, we will find out about variables. We will learn about the purpose of variables, but also the technical aspects of creating variables to a uniform standard. Variable declaration is not used in Python, so a wider look at this through other programming languages will help us gain an insight into its meaning.

Lesson 2

Input

InputIn this lesson, we will start to add interactivity to our programs by using the input() function. Whilst learning about input, we will be introduced to functions and data validation techniques. These will be covered in more detail later on in the course.

Lesson 3

Flowcharts

FlowchartsIn this lesson, we will focus on interpreting and creating flowcharts. We will use our knowledge of writing simple sequences and subroutines to follow a flowchart, and write the code that it represents. We will be given time to write our own simple flowcharts in order to practise using the symbols that we have learnt during the lesson. This is an introduction to flowchart design and will be built upon throughout the unit.

week 3

Lesson 1

Computer systems and system software

Computer systems and system softwareIn this lesson, we will discover two types of computer systems: general purpose and embedded. Following this, we will explore the need for system software to facilitate communication between software and hardware in computer systems. We will explain the role of an operating system in controlling a computer while it is running.

Lesson 2

Introduction to the CPU

Introduction to the CPUIn this lesson, we will be introduced to the CPU and von Neumann architecture. We will learn about the individual components of the CPU and their roles in computation, along the way finding out about von Neumann and his theories that form the basis of modern computer architecture.

Lesson 3

The FDE cycle

The FDE cycleIn this lesson, we will extend our knowledge of the components that make up the CPU by introducing the fetch-decode-execute cycle (FDE). We will observe a program running and will connect the parts of the CPU to their role in executing instructions.

week 4

Lesson 1

Main memory

Main memoryIn this lesson, we will be introduced to main memory, RAM and ROM, as well as cache. This lesson builds on the core knowledge from the previous lesson about CPU components.

Spring Term

week 1

Lesson 1

Spreadsheet warm-up

Spreadsheet warm-upIn this lesson, we will revisit and develop KS3 spreadsheet skills. We will check our understanding of spreadsheet layout, and refamiliarise ourselves with formulae

Lesson 2

The RSC Live event

The RSC Live eventIn this lesson, we will implement a spreadsheet which represents seating for the live event of Rock Star Challenge. The spreadsheet includes different seat prices for adults, students, and over 60s. We will use a drop-down list to select seats, and formulae will be used to calculate the price.

Lesson 3

RSC merchandise

RSC merchandiseIn this lesson, we will learn how databases are used to manage sales and stock levels. We will look at a partly completed spreadsheet showing items of merchandise to be sold at the RSC Live event.

week 2

Lesson 1

RSC data visualisation

RSC data visualisationIn this lesson, we will learn how to create accurate and useful charts based on generated data. Charts are often used to quickly give information and to help visualise sometimes quite complex data, but it is important to select the right chart for the data and to implement the chart accurately.

Lesson 2

RSC stock control

RSC stock controlIn this lesson, we will go behind the scenes to examine the database of RSC merchandise. We will discuss the use of barcodes and QR codes (2D codes) and the different kinds of data they can hold.

week 5

Lesson 1

The modern world of work

The modern world of workIn this lesson, we will introduce how the workplace has changed over time. This includes an overview of traditional and modern work practices; how flexibility is achieved through 24/7/365 availability; and how modern technology facilitates inclusivity and accessibility for all stakeholders.

Lesson 2

Change enablers, accessibility

Change enablers, accessibilityIn this lesson, we will broaden our knowledge and understanding of accessibility issues and how technology supports individuals' access to the modern working world. We will investigate the tools available for those with visual and hearing impairments by evaluating accessibility tools and design. We will also explore the value of collaboration within working teams and consider how the tools available for those with a disability facilitate inclusivity in the workplace.

Lesson 3

The skills required

The skills requiredIn this lesson, we will prepare for the workplace by evaluating good communication practice. We will differentiate between the language used with peers online and that used with colleagues in order to develop a positive online presence within the workplace.

week 6

Lesson 1

Why cloud computing?

Why cloud computing?In this lesson, we will investigate the purpose of cloud computing. This will support the development of knowledge about the different services offered by providers of cloud computing and look at how they may or may not be an advantage to business.

Lesson 2

Creating personal networks

Creating personal networksIn this lesson, we will learn about the methods of constructing personal networks. This is an essential skill if we are to continue into the workforce as a remote worker.

Lesson 3

Remote working

Remote workingIn this lesson, we will consider the benefits and drawbacks of working remotely on physical and mental well-being.

week 7

Lesson 1

Subroutines

SubroutinesIn this lesson, we will formalise our definition of a subroutine. We will find out why they are used in programming and we will also learn how to pass values to them.

Lesson 2

Functions

FunctionsIn this lesson, we will explore how to create our own functions. Functions are a type of subroutine that allow us to return a value. We have used them before when we have used code like print() and input(). We will also explore the difference between a function and procedure.

week 8

Lesson 1

Computational Thinking

Computational thinkingIn this lesson, we will be introduced to three computational thinking techniques: decomposition, abstraction, and algorithmic thinking. We will explore how these skills can be applied when solving a wide range of problems, both computer-based and in their everyday lives.

Lesson 2

Computational Thinking

Computational thinkingIn this lesson, we will be introduced to three computational thinking techniques: decomposition, abstraction, and algorithmic thinking. We will explore how these skills can be applied when solving a wide range of problems, both computer-based and in their everyday lives.

Lesson 3

Computational Thinking

Computational thinkingIn this lesson, we will be introduced to three computational thinking techniques: decomposition, abstraction, and algorithmic thinking. We will explore how these skills can be applied when solving a wide range of problems, both computer-based and in their everyday lives.

week 9

Lesson 1

Scope

ScopeIn this lesson, we will learn about the scope of variables. When a variable is initialised within a subroutine it cannot be easily accessed and modified by other subroutines. This lesson will teach us about the different levels of scope and show us how to access variables that are initialised within subroutines.

Lesson 2

Xor

XORIn this lesson, we will be introduced to a new operator called XOR. We will discover how an XOR works before writing a function to perform the XOR operation.

week 10

Lesson 1

Representing Algorithms

Representing algorithmsIn this lesson, we will be developing flow charts. This lesson assumes that learners have already covered the flow chart lesson in the KS4 Programming unit, although this lesson can also be used to introduce the flow chart symbols if required.

Lesson 2

Representing Algorithms

Representing algorithmsIn this lesson, we will be developing flow charts. This lesson assumes that learners have already covered the flow chart lesson in the KS4 Programming unit, although this lesson can also be used to introduce the flow chart symbols if required.

Lesson 3

Representing Algorithms

Representing algorithmsIn this lesson, we will be developing flow charts. This lesson assumes that learners have already covered the flow chart lesson in the KS4 Programming unit, although this lesson can also be used to introduce the flow chart symbols if required.

week 11

Lesson 1

Structured Programming

Structured programmingIn this lesson, we will be introduced to the paradigm: structured programming is programming. This lesson will also demonstrate how we can apply the paradigm to our own programs.

Lesson 2

Create a program

Create a programIn this lesson, we will follow the structured programming approach to create our own program.

week 12

Lesson 1

Tracing Algorithms

Tracing algorithmsIn this lesson, we will be shown examples of tracing a Python program and a flow chart. Trace tables are great for walking through an algorithm and are often used to locate logic errors

Lesson 2

Tracing Algorithms

Tracing algorithmsIn this lesson, we will be shown examples of tracing a Python program and a flow chart. Trace tables are great for walking through an algorithm and are often used to locate logic errors

Lesson 3

Tracing Algorithms

Tracing algorithmsIn this lesson, we will be shown examples of tracing a Python program and a flow chart. Trace tables are great for walking through an algorithm and are often used to locate logic errors