The National 5 Computing Science Course builds on the work done in S3 Computing Science. As well as engaging pupils in problem-solving activities and providing them with a wide range of practical IT experiences, it also provides opportunities to enhance their literacy and numeracy skills.

Database design and development
This unit allows pupils to develop knowledge and an understanding of the analysis, design, implementation, testing and evaluation stages of creating a database.
Pupils will study linked database tables and the terms used to describe its components.
Pupils will create databases using the software FileMaker Pro.  They will learn how to

• Design a linked database using a data dictionary
• create fields of the correct data type and import data into these fields 
• program using the language SQL to carryout the following tasks:
  • complex searching
  • sorting on more than one field
  • updating, deleting, inserting records
  • using equi-join to link database tables together.
• create reports so that the layout of the resulting records are shown in the desired format.

p

Web Design and development
This unit allows pupils to develop knowledge and an understanding of the analysis, design, implementation, testing and evaluation stages of creating a website.
Pupils will study the types of media files used for web pages and why compression is needed
Pupils will create their own web pages using the programming languages HTML and Javascript.
Pupils will learn to

• design a web site and web pages using low fidelity prototyping
  • write in programming code to place text, audio and graphics onto a web page.
  • created coded hyperlinks to link the pages together.
  • understand and use code to activate events with movement of the mouse
  • create cascading style sheets for use in a web page

p

Software Development and Design
This unit allows pupils to develop knowledge and an understanding of the analysis, design, implementation, testing and evaluation stages of creating effective programs.
Pupils will create their own code using a programming languages called Livecode.
Pupils will learn

• to design their program using pseudocode, flowcharts and structured diagram
• to create their own programs using the software Livecode.
  • the different data types that can be used
  • concatenation and pre-defined functions
  • to code decision making conditions and use repetition code to create useful programs.
  • to create and traverse arrays which store lists of values
  • to design and implement input validation
  • to design and implement a running total within a loop

p

Computer Systems
This unit allows pupils to develop knowledge and an understanding of how a computer works.
Pupils will learn how:

• data is stored in the computer
  • using binary to denary conversion and ffloating point form conversion
  • colour depth for bit-mapped graphics and attributes for vector graphics
• the components of the processor -the ALU, Control Unit and registers
  • data is sent from the processor to the memory using busses
• a high-level language like Livecode, SQL and HTML must be translated into machine code
• computer usage affects the environmentand security precauctions are used to prevent computer crime.

Teacher-led discussion and cooperative group work are used to give pupils the opportunity to demonstrate and improve their knowledge, understanding and practical skills throughout the course.

Pupils undertake an online test at the end of the following topics/units:

Unit 1 –Data Representation

Unit 2 – Computer Architechture and Languages

Unit 3 – Databases

Unit 4 – Web Design

Unit 5 – Software Development and Design

There will be a written Prelim in January.

Practical work will be assessed in February using an assignment, sent from the SQA,  that encompasses elements of the Database Design and Development Unit, the Web Design and Development Unit and the Software Design and Development.  This will take  place during class time and is worth 31% of the pupil’s final mark.

All pupil assessments are routinely graded and recorded by the teacher and the results are stored centrally, these results are used by staff to track the progress of the individuals and ensure that their needs are being met. Pupils also review their own attainment and are encourage to identify ways to improve their learning. Staff report formally to parents as per the school calendar.