ICT
Welcome to the ICT Department
The ICT department at Parkstone is ever-expanding. We now have three specialist computer suites as well as computer suites in other subject areas. All computers in the school are connected to the school network, on which each student and member of staff has their own user area. Students also have access to broadband Internet, scanners, digital cameras and video editing software. The teaching of this subject is also greatly enhanced through the use of interactive 'Smart' boards. These touch-sensitive displays allow a wide range of applications and media to be controlled interactively by students and teachers. All students have accounts on the It's Learning Virtual Learning Environment where they can access lesson material, store their work and submit homework for on-line assessment. Each student has a school email account which should be used for all email access from within school.
Key Stage 3
In Year 8 students learn about data logging, information systems, website authoring and design, Internet searching, spreadsheet modelling, sequencing instructions, game design and ICT for business (planning, marketing, podcasting and video editing).
In Year 9 students learn about spotting scams, data and software protection, safe social networking, control systems, modelling, presention with ICT, desk-top publishing, ePortfolios, communication, collecting information, web design, databases and reports. In the Summer term there is a Stop Frame Animation Project.
The work done at KS3 level provides all students with a general knowledge of computer use and a base for future study. The textbook used is Smart Learning ICT Skills Builder.
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GCSE Information and Communication Technology
The ICT GCSE course develops problem-solving skills. Students are expected to design systems that are user-friendly for others as well as themselves and they will experience the use of different Microsoft Office applications through practical exercises that aim to stretch their skills.
For the coursework students choose problems for themselves and then design and implement solutions. For example, past students have produced interactive stories for children, spreadsheets on the cost of smoking and real estate databases.
Click here to view the exam board syllabus
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A Level Information and Communication Technology
This A Level in ICT uses a task driven approach to problem solving and decision making that relies on the effective use of ICT systems. The practical use of computers and their application in the workplace forms the basis of the course. The specification will extend your conception of the effects and limitations of ICT and understanding of the new opportunities it can create within organisations and society. Areas of study include the nature, role and context of information, information management and manipulation and information systems within organisations. There are coursework units in both year 12 and 13.
Click here to view the exam board syllabus
A Level Computing
Studying computing will develop skills in computer programming in several languages including Visual Basic and Delphi. A Level Computing also provides an understanding of the internal structure of computers and how they operate and covers topics such as computer systems, network concepts and system development. This subject is taught at Poole Grammar School and students from Parkstone Grammar School go there for lessons.
Click here to view the exam board syllabus
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Links
BBC Bitesize at www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/ict
Microsoft tutorials on using Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, Access etc. at office.microsoft.com
Latest computing news at www.computing.co.uk/news
Technology news at www.zdnet.co.uk
Microsoft tips for taking your first digital photos
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Logo
Logo can be downloaded from www.softronix.com
How to create 
Logo eggs for Easter (PDF 11k)
Work by past Year 13 students on fractals and recursive programming
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