INTRODUCTION:
The syllabus of Grade 8 is designed in such a way that the students broaden their understanding of the topics learnt in Grade 6 and 7. While the students are given a peek into the capabilities of computers in the grades 6 and 7, they are taken to a higher level in Grade 8 where the influence of ICT in daily life is explained. The students are also taught the fundamentals of data collection and analysis which will be useful for them for the IGCSE curriculum.
AIMS:
To acquire sufficient understanding and knowledge of ICT applications so as to be suitably prepared for the IGCSE course.
To develop abilities and skills that is relevant to the study and practice of computer science technologies.
To cultivate enquiry and initiative that will help attain capabilities and knowledge in all fields related to computer science technologies.
To stimulate interest in the usage of correct computing environment
To promote the awareness and importance of group work in scientific investigations.
To develop the skills that encourages safe and efficient practice.
OBJECTIVES:
During the course of the year the following assessment objectives will be sought to be obtained.
Knowledge and understanding of scientific phenomena, laws, definitions, facts and theories.
Knowledge and understanding of scientific vocabulary, terminology, symbols, quantities and units.
Knowledge and understanding of various tools and utilities including techniques of operation and security.
Ability to translate information from one form to another.
Ability to present reasoned explanations for phenomena, patterns and relationships.
Ability to solve problems and to interpret and evaluate experimental
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
The curriculum in Grade 8 has been designed in such a way that the students relate the equipments used in their daily life with information and communication technologies. The assignments in data collection and analysis improve the analytical capability of the students and prepare them for larger requirements in IGCSE curriculum. The entire syllabus is organized in such a way that the students are able to get valuable inputs through practical learning and demonstration.
LEARNER PROFILE:
1. Knowledgeable- Students gain knowledge of the concepts taught and applies the concept.
2. Inquirers- Students develop natural curiosity and acquire the skills necessary to conduct inquiry and research and show independence in learning.
3. Thinkers- Students exercise in applying thinking skills using the knowledge from the concepts learned.
4. Open mindedness- Students become open minded and learn to appreciate and value the findings of other individuals
5. Communicators- Students work effectively and willingly in collaboration with others
6. Reflective- Students learn to be reflective and are able to assess and understand their own strengths and limitations in order to support their learning.
TOPICS:
1. Control Systems:
Usage of control systems in the equipments used for the day to day life, different components of the system.
Input sensors, control programs and flow charts.
Usage of Flowol program for the control programs and flow charts.
Defining specific outputs in terms of multiple sensors.
Specific examples of water chute and log flume.
Designing your own water based ride based on specific activity and safety features.
Presentation of students’ ideas to the rest of the class.
Learning outcome:
The students get in depth knowledge of how control systems are designed and operated. The students are made to think about the various sensors used in both domestic and industrial systems. Their thought process is also widened by putting their own ideas and designing own control systems.
2. Data management and analysis:
Data collection methods - Online data collection and paper based method of collection.
Planning, refining and producing the questionnaire.
Ensuring the accurate entry of the data into the system.
Building the database and management using Excel.
Testing the hypotheses and drawing conclusions from the database.
Presentation of students’ findings to the rest of the class.
Learning outcome:
The students learn to use the analytic techniques to do data management and they also learn to interpret the data to form the conclusions. The students will also learn the data collection methods and tools. They will also be familiar with forming and testing hypothesis.
3. Building a system and managing project:
Creating a project for booking system in a theatre using Excel.
Use various features of Excel to create the project completing various steps.
Once the project is completed the project presentation is given to the rest of the class and project documentation is prepared.
Learning outcome:
The students get the experience of building a complete project. They go through the various processes of building a project including proper documentation and presentation.
ASSESSMENTS
Students need to maintain a lab notebook to make notes of the content taught and to record the data collected during the practical sessions.
Every topic in the curriculum is tested. The assessments enable students to interpret data, reason logically and develop critical, analytical and application oriented thinking.
Term 1 comprises two summative and two formative assessments
Term 2 comprises two summative and two formative assessments
The formative assessment tests the skills in usage of various tools and utilities.
Summative assessments include written tests and the end of the term examination.
RESOURCES:
1. ICT Framework solutions by Stephen Doyle.