TY Computer Studies 2014/2015
1. Duration of Module:
Three classes per week.
2. Aims:
 To raise the level of competency in IT and computer skills
 To improve productivity at home and at school using ICT
 To complete 4 ECDL modules and in doing so provide a European recognised qualification
1. Objectives:
Students will be able to:
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Understand the basic concepts of Information and Communication Technology
Use the computer and manage files
Perform basic operations in Microsoft Office Word, Excel, Database and Powerpoint
Accomplish everyday tasks on the internet
Successfully use e-mail
2. Teaching and Learning Strategies:
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Computer based learning
Teacher directed instruction
Online tutorial
Self-directed learning
Simulations
Diagnostic tests
3. Content:
Module 1 - Concepts of Information and
Communication Technology
This module enables candidates to gain an understanding of
the different parts of a computer, as well as some of the key
concepts of Information and Communication Technology
(ICT), such as those relating to networks and security.
Module 2 - Using the Computer and Managing Files
This module requires candidates to demonstrate knowledge
and competence in using the common functions of a
personal computer and its operating system. Among other
tasks, candidates will learn to operate effectively within the
desktop environment and how to manage and organise files
and directories/folders.
On completion of this module each candidate will:
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Understand what hardware is, know about factors that
affect computer performance and know about
peripheral devices
Understand what software is and give examples of
common applications software and operating system
software
Understand how information networks are used within
computing, and be aware of the different options to
connect to the Internet
Understand what Information and Communication
Technology (ICT) is and give examples of its practical
applications in everyday life
Understand health and safety and environmental issues
in relation to using computers.
Recognise important security issues associated with
using computers
Recognise important legal issues in relation to
copyright and data protection associated with using
computers
On completion of this module each candidate will be able
to:
 Use the main features of the operating system including
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adjusting the main computer settings and using built-in
help features
Operate effectively around the computer desktop and
work effectively in a graphical user environment
Know about the main concepts of file management and
be able to efficiently organise files and folders so that
they are easy to identify and find
Use utility software to compress and extract large files
and use anti-virus software to protect against computer
viruses
Demonstrate the ability to use simple text editing and
print tools available within the operating system
ECDL / ICDL Module 3 - Word Processing
This module enables candidates to demonstrate the ability to
use a word processing application to accomplish everyday
tasks associated with creating, formatting and finishing smallsized word processing documents such as letters and other
everyday documents. Candidates will be able to duplicate and
move text within and between documents. They gain
competence in using some of the features associated with
word processing applications such as creating standard tables,
using pictures and images within a document, and using mail
merge tools. On completion of this module each candidate will
be able to: Work with documents and save them in different
file formats Choose built-in options such as the Help function
to enhance productivity Create and edit small-sized word
processing documents that will be ready to share and distribute
Apply different formats to documents to enhance them before
distribution and recognise good practice in choosing the
appropriate formatting options Insert tables, images and drawn
objects into documents Prepare documents for mail merge
operations Adjust document page settings and check and
correct spelling before finally printing documents - See more
at:
http://www.ecdl.org/programmes/module3#sthash.DiUasDv3.
dpuf
ECDL / ICDL Module 4 - Spreadsheets
ECDL / ICDL Module 5 - Using Databases
This module enables candidates to understand the concept of
spreadsheets and to demonstrate the ability to use a
spreadsheet application. Candidates will understand and be
able to accomplish tasks associated with developing,
formatting, modifying and using a spreadsheet, in addition
to using standard formulas and functions, and demonstrate
competence in creating and formatting graphs or charts.
This module enables candidates to understand some of the
main concepts of databases and demonstrate the ability to
use a database application. This includes creating and
modifying tables, queries, forms and reports, and preparing
outputs ready for distribution, as well as learning to relate
tables and to retrieve and manipulate information from a
database by using query and sort tools.
On completion of this module each candidate will be able
to:
On completion of this module each candidate will be able
to:
 Work with spreadsheets and save them in different file
 Understand what a database is and how it is organised
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formats
Choose built-in options such as the Help function within
the application to enhance productivity
Enter data into cells and use good practice in creating
lists. Select, sort and copy, move and delete data
Edit rows and columns in a worksheet. Copy, move,
delete and appropriately rename worksheets
Create mathematical and logical formulas using standard
spreadsheet functions. Use good practice in formula
creation and recognise error values in formulas
Format numbers and text content in a spreadsheet
Choose, create and format charts to communicate
information meaningfully
Adjust spreadsheet page settings and check and correct
spreadsheet content before finally printing spreadsheets
and operated
 Create a simple database and view the database content in
various modes
 Create a table, define and modify fields and their
properties; enter and edit data in a table
 Sort and filter a table or form; create, modify and run
queries to retrieve specific information from a database
 Understand what a form is and create a form to enter,
modify and delete records and data in records
 Create routine reports and prepare outputs ready for
distribution
ECDL / ICDL Module 6 - Presentation
This module enables candidates to demonstrate competence in
using presentation tools on a computer. Candidates will be
able to accomplish tasks such as creating, formatting,
modifying and preparing presentations using different slide
layouts for display and printed distribution. On completion of
this module each candidate will be able to: Work with
presentations and save them in different file formats Choose
built-in options such as the Help function within the
application to enhance productivity Understand different
presentation views and when to use them, choose different
slide layouts and designs Enter, edit and format text in
presentations. Recognise good practice in applying unique
titles to slides Choose, create and format charts to
communicate information meaningfully Insert and edit
pictures, images and drawn objects Apply animation and
transition effects to presentations and check and correct
presentation content before finally printing and giving
presentations -
ECDL / ICDL Module 7 - Web Browsing and
Communication
The first section on Web Browsing requires candidates to
understand some of the concepts and terms associated with
using the Internet, and to appreciate some of the security
considerations. In the second section, Communication,
candidates will learn to understand some of the concepts of
electronic mail (email), and gain the ability to use email
software to send and receive messages, and to attach files to
mail messages.
The first section, Web Browsing, enables candidates to learn
about the Internet and to use a web browsing application.
On completion of the Web Browsing section each candidate
will be able to:
 Understand what the Internet is and common terms
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associated with it. Be aware of some security
considerations when using the Internet
Accomplish everyday web browsing tasks including
changing browser settings
Search for information and complete and submit webbased forms
Save web pages and download files from the web. Copy
web content into a document
The second section, Communication, enables candidates to
understand some of the concepts of electronic mail (email)
and know about other communication options. On
completion of the Communication section each candidate
will be able to:
 Understand what email is and know some advantages and
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disadvantages of its use. Be aware of other
communication options
Be aware of network etiquette and security considerations
when using email
Create, spell check and send email. Reply to and forward
email, handle file attachments and print an email
Be aware of ways to enhance productivity when working
with email software. Organise and manage email
4. Assessment:
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Diagnostic Test for each of the 4 modules completed using an Automated Testing System (ICS Skills)
Test for each module
ECDL skills certificate for those with successful completion of 4 modules.
All students will receive a school generated Certificate of Improvement in ICT
5. Resources:
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Computers
Overhead Projector
Internet website – ICS-skills.net
Online tutorial through ICS skills and teacher own notes
Automated Testing System through ICS Skills ATS system
MS Office 2010
Windows 7
6. Links with other subjects:
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The skills that students develop will be beneficial to all other subjects.
7. Evaluation:
 Through the feedback they obtain from the diagnostic tests that they complete for each module. A new diagnostic test is created based on the
questions that they got wrong.
 Results of each exam completed.