Information and Communication Technology

Transcription

1 GCSE Information and Communication Technology OCR GCSE in Information and Communication Technology OCR GCSE (Short Course) in Information and Communication Technology J461 J061 Draft Version July 2009 OCR 2009 Draft Version

2 Why choose OCR GCSE ICT? More enjoyment This is an exciting new GCSE ICT specification that includes familiar and popular aspects of previous GCSE ICT specifications. It will provide learners with fantastic opportunities to work with a variety of technologies, giving them greater choice and making it even more enjoyable for them to study. The qualification has been designed so that learners will be digitally literate, with an up-to-date understanding of the digital world around them. More flexibility Learners can enjoy more flexibility. They can demonstrate their skills in a way that suits them best, including an optional computing unit, which introduces the concept of programming as a taster for interested learners. There is also the opportunity to run a short course. Furthermore, this specification provides good progression to AS and A level ICT for learners who want to continue their study in this fascinating field. More choice We ve created the course so that, as a centre, you can pick options that best suit your resources and the needs of your learners. So, for example, you might choose to complete the whole qualification via an e route, removing the need for paper-based evidence and freeing your learner and your centre from printing. In fact, with all the examined units, you have the option of computer-based or paper-based assessment. The controlled assessment units can be submitted electronically through the OCR Repository or via the paper-based option. The course has also been designed to allow co-teaching with the new Entry Level ICT specification. 2 OCR 2009

3 Contents 1 Introduction to GCSE Information and Communication Technology Overview of OCR GCSE ICT What is new in OCR GCSE ICT? Guided Learning Hours 7 2 Content of GCSE ICT Unit B061: ICT in today s world Unit B062: Practical applications in ICT Unit B063: ICT in context Unit B064: Creative use of ICT Unit B065: Coding a solution 20 3 Assessment of GCSE ICT Overview of the assessment in GCSE ICT Tiers Assessment Objectives Grading and awarding grades Grade descriptions Quality of written communication Computer-based tests 27 4 Controlled Assessment in GCSE ICT Controlled assessment tasks Planning and managing controlled assessment Marking and moderating controlled assessment Submitting the moderation samples via the OCR Repository 32 5 Support for GCSE ICT Free resources available from the OCR website Other resources Training OCR Support Services 34 6 Access to GCSE ICT Disability Discrimination Act Information relating to GCSE ICT Arrangements for candidates with particular requirements 36 OCR

4 7 Administration of GCSE ICT Availability of assessment Making entries Terminal rule Unit and qualification re-sits Enquiries about results Shelf-Life of units Prohibited qualifications and classification code 39 8 Other information about GCSE ICT Overlap with other qualifications Progression from this qualification Avoidance of bias Code of Practice/Common Criteria Requirements /Subject Criteria Language Spiritual, moral, ethical, social, legislative, economic and cultural issues Sustainable development, health and safety considerations and European developments, consistent with international agreements Key Skills 43 Appendix A: Guidance for the production of electronic Controlled Assessment 44 Appendix B: Centre Audit for Running Computer-Based Tests 46 Appendix B1 Requirements for OCR Computer-based Tests 46 Appendix B2 Centre checklist FOR Running Computer-Based Tests 48 4 OCR 2009

5 1 Introduction to GCSE Information and Communication Technology 1.1 Overview of OCR GCSE ICT Unit B061 ICT in today s world Written Paper 1 hour 60 marks 20% of the GCSE 40% of the GCSE Short Course Unit B062 Practical applications in ICT Unit B063 ICT in context + + Written Paper: candidates answer all questions Controlled Assessment 60 marks 30% of the GCSE 60% of the GCSE Short Course Candidates create an ICT solution using ICT applications Written Paper 1 hour 60 marks 20% of the GCSE + Written Paper: candidates answer all questions Unit B064 Creative use of ICT Controlled Assessment 60 marks 30% of the GCSE Unit B065 Coding a solution Controlled Assessment 60 marks 30% of the GCSE Candidates solve a problem by creating and developing a multimedia solution with appropriate creative elements OR Candidates identify a potential coded solution to a problem and solve using basic programming techniques OCR

6 1.2 What is new in OCR GCSE ICT? S T R U C T U R E C O N T E N T What stays the same? Retains the effective structure of four units - two practical, two written from the legacy ICT A and B specifications. Short and full courses as per the legacy ICT A and B specifications. Retains the flexibility in delivery as per the legacy GCSE specifications. Retains a similar research brief from the legacy ICT B specification for one of the externally-assessed units. Retains a context-based externally-assessed unit as in the legacy ICT B specification. Incorporates popular features from legacy specifications. Fully supported as per the legacy specifications. Builds on the previous ICT specifications. Familiar content allows you to make the most of your centre s resources. What changes? Optional pathways for the second practical unit to ensure relevance and choice. A contextualised, externally-assessed unit, as a result of teacher feedback. To suit all teachers and learners, there s now a choice of exciting set tasks for the final practical unit. More flexibility and future-proofed content and structure. More focus on the communication elements of ICT. Units can be taken in any order. No tiers. Choice of set task for practical units rather than a broad set context. Exciting changes to content and format. Content now extended to bring it up-to-date and to allow for future proofing. This specification allows for optional pathways such as a gaming solution / website solution, or programming, to maximise teacher and candidate expertise and interests. More flexibility in choice and focus on practical work. A context related externally-assessed unit based upon a research brief. Flexibility to allow for future developments and changes in ICT use. More clarity in content. Builds on best parts of OCR legacy ICT specifications. Builds on feedback from teachers. A S S E S S M E N T Very similar to the legacy ICT A and ICT B specifications with two externally-assessed units. Second paper based on pre-release material as per the legacy ICT B specification. Single tier of entry for all units. Practical assessment now by banded marking criteria with best fit approach. Second externally-assessed unit based on a set research brief. Choice of set tasks. 6 OCR 2009

7 For any questions about the OCR GCSE ICT specification, please call Guided Learning Hours GCSE ICT requires Guided Learning Hours. GCSE (Short Course) ICT requires Guided Learning Hours OCR

8 2 Content of GCSE ICT 2.1 Unit B061: ICT in today s world Candidates study a range of ICT systems, as used in the home, at school, and in society. Candidates need to be aware of current and emerging technologies and the impact that advances in technology may have on themselves and others ICT systems Systems Hardware Software (i) the main components of a computer system (ii) a range of common applications where microprocessor technology is used (iii) the difference between hardware and software (iv) different types of software (i) input, output, storage and communication devices and their appropriate use (ii) the advantages and disadvantages of a variety of input, output, storage and communication devices (iii) user interfaces (i) different types of commonly used software (ii) appropriate uses of software (iii) the advantages and disadvantages of different software applications (iv) the different file types used to support software 8 OCR 2009

9 2.1.2 Exchanging information Communications (i) communication services (ii) sharing, exchanging and managing information (iii) the safe and responsible use of communication services (iv) communications software (v) the use of the internet (vi) controlling ICT systems remotely (vii) monitoring and tracking systems (viii) emerging technologies Presenting information Manipulating data Data management Data handling software (i) types and purposes of different ways of presenting information (ii) the use of ICT tools and features/facilities for presenting information with regard to efficiency and quality of work, ease of transfer (iii) integration between and within software applications (i) different data types (ii) the main issues governing the design of file structures (iii) the main issues governing the design of data capture forms, screens and reports (iv) validation and verification (i) the features of data handling software (ii) typical tasks for which data handling software can be used (iii) data modelling (v) the use of relational databases and spreadsheets (iv) emerging data handling applications OCR

10 2.1.5 Keeping data safe and secure (i) backups and archiving (ii) secure and safe practices in the use of ICT (iii) appropriate User Security methods and devices (iv) malicious software and the damage it can cause (v) the procedures users can take to minimise risks of damage caused by malicious software (vi) how to avoid the loss/disclosure of personal data to unauthorised users (vii) what is meant by data encryption and when and why it is used Legal, social, ethical and environmental issues when using ICT Using ICT systems How ICT systems are used Candidates should have an understanding of: (i) the main aspects of legislation relating to the use of ICT (ii) the potential health problems related to the prolonged use of ICT systems (iii) the need for good design of user interfaces and their impact on the health of users (iv) how ICT systems can affect the quality of life experienced by persons with disabilities (v) a range of safety issues related to using computers and measures needed for prevention of accidents (i) the correct procedures to start, access, exit and shutdown ICT systems (ii) the selection and appropriate adjustment of system settings and user preferences (iii) the selection and use the features of user interfaces (iv) the management of folder structures and files to ensure the safe storage and retrieval of information (v) networking (vi) how ICT systems are used to facilitate modern living 10 OCR 2009

11 Troubleshooting (i) common problems encountered when using ICT systems (ii) troubleshooting activities (iii) the difference between hardware and software problems, and how these can be solved Monitoring, measurement & control technology ICT and modern living (i) the different types of sensor and their suitable uses (ii) the advantages and disadvantages of computerised data logging (iii) writing a sequence of instructions to control a screen image or external device (iv) the use of ICT to control and monitor areas of everyday living (i) how ICT systems have changed the way people go about their daily lives, including communication and shopping OCR

12 2.2 Unit B062: Practical applications in ICT Candidates study a range of everyday software applications to be able to manipulate and process data, and other information effectively, and efficiently and to present information in a format suitable for purpose and audience. Candidates will select from a range of set tasks written to enable them to demonstrate their practical ICT ability Investigating a need Candidates should be able to demonstrate a practical ability to: (i) research a given context documenting sources of information (ii) analyse systematically the information requirements to solve an ICT problem (iii) think creatively, logically and critically throughout the development process of a set ICT based solution (iv) find and select appropriate data and information which is fit for purpose, relevant and accurate (v) work effectively with others to gain and share knowledge (vi) produce a design brief (vii) produce a system specification with measurable success factors Practical use of software tools to produce a working solution Candidates should be able to demonstrate a practical ability to: (i) produce a fully working solution to a chosen set task (ii) select and use a range of ICT tools and techniques to develop effective solutions (iii) demonstrate knowledge of software features and their use (iv) integrate tools and techniques to work efficiently and to meet user needs (v) demonstrate the application of a wide range of tools and techniques across applications to produce ICT based solutions (vi) understand and adopt safe, secure and responsible working practices when using ICT (vii) use initiative to exploit the potential of new and more advanced ICT tools 12 OCR 2009

13 2.2.3 Practical use of file and data structure to produce a working solution Present their solution Evaluation Candidates should be able to demonstrate a practical ability to: (i) use software features (ii) model situations and data to explore and develop ideas (iii) enter, develop and format data and information to suit processing purpose and audience (iv) apply creative and technical skills, knowledge and understanding of ICT tools and methods to import and export data (v) manipulate and process data and other information effectively and efficiently (vi) check data accuracy (vii) creates a suitable data structure for a task Candidates should be able to demonstrate a practical ability to: (i) use a range of ICT tools and media to communicate data and information effectively and in a form which demonstrates a clear sense of purpose and audience (ii) demonstrate clear understanding of how information should be interpreted and presented to suit purpose and audience (iii) present information in ways that are fit for purpose and audience Candidates should be able to demonstrate a practical ability to: (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) (vi) evaluate theirs and others contribution test their own solution create and review their own ICT based solution review and modify work as it progresses to improve the quality of the ICT based solution evaluate and amend their own solutions to a set problem identify strengths and weaknesses (vii) identify areas to improve and recommend and justify appropriate changes that could be made (viii) present their evaluation in a relevant, clear, organised, structured and coherent format. (ix) use specialist terms correctly and appropriately OCR

14 2.3 Unit B063: ICT in context Candidates study a range of ICT systems in a business or organisational context. Candidates should be aware of current and emerging technologies and their impact on themselves and others. The question paper will be based upon pre-release material, relating to specified business or organisation(s) and its/their use of ICT. The pre-release material will be issued to centres prior to the examination. Candidates are not permitted to take any preparatory work into the examination room. This unit will incorporate and build on the knowledge and understanding gained in units B061 and B ICT systems Systems Hardware Software (i) specialist equipment used by the organisation detailed in the prerelease material (ii) a range of commercial applications where microprocessor technology is used (iii) operating systems and applications software (iv) mobile, portable, and desktop ICT tools for a variety of tasks (v) the fundamental differences between the technologies used and their appropriate commercial use (i) specialist input, output, storage and communication devices such as those used by the organisation detailed in the pre-release material (ii) the advantages and disadvantages of a variety of input, output, storage and communication devices within a given context (i) different types of specialist software and their uses (ii) software applications used by organisations (iii) the advantages and disadvantages of different software applications and their use in a defined context Networks (i) the main components of computer networks (ii) network topologies (iii) the advantages and disadvantages of using computer networks (iv) the use of internal and external networks 14 OCR 2009

15 2.3.3 Information Knowledge Based Systems (IKBS) and Expert Systems (i) the purpose of IKBS and Expert Systems and how they are used for diagnostic work and decision making Project planning Exchanging information Communications Communications software (i) the way ICT facilitates collaboration and teamwork (ii) the main stages of the project management/systems lifecycle, including methods and processes used (iii) how ICT can be used to plan and manage projects (iv) a range of systems investigation methods (v) systems implementation strategies (i) communication services used in organisations (ii) how organisations share, exchange and manage information (iii) sharing, exchanging and managing information with employees and with the wider customer base (iv) how organisations use the internet (v) specialist hardware used in the organisation detailed in the pre-release material (vi) how developments in technology lead to new forms of communication (i) the appropriate use of software to communicate information to different audiences (ii) how organisations use data handling software (iii) how organisations use a data model (iv) the use and purpose of communication software for commercial purposes OCR

16 2.3.6 Presenting information (i) the different types and purposes of software for business use (ii) the integration of applications to achieve outcomes (iii) the use of the features of software used by organisations to present information Manipulating data Data management Data handling software (i) the purpose and methods of data management used by commercial organisations (ii) data management tools (iii) the use of relational databases, spreadsheets and other software used by businesses and organisations. (i) commonly used features of data handling software and their purpose (ii) how a data model may be used for project planning and costing Legal, social, ethical and environmental issues when using ICT within context (i) the main aspects of legislation relating to the use of ICT within the organisation detailed in the pre-release material (ii) the changes in working practices due to the use of ICT within the organisation detailed in the pre-release material (iii) the use of ICT for security, monitoring, surveillance and data security (iv) environmental issues connected to the production, use and disposal of ICT systems, the effect on natural resources of the creation and use of ICT systems 16 OCR 2009

17 2.3.9 Managing data/keeping data safe and secure when using ICT within a given context (i) appropriate methods that could be used to make backups and archives (ii) appropriate secure and safe practices that could be used (iii) appropriate user security methods and devices that could be used (iv) the procedures that could be used to minimise the risks of security breaches Current and emerging technologies (i) changes in everyday ICT use (ii) evolving communication systems and how they affect the way people live (iii) how emerging technologies affect the way companies and their staff operate and work together OCR

18 2.4 Unit B064: Creative use of ICT Candidates study a range of creative software applications in order to create a multimedia solution to a given problem. They should be aware of how to analyse the problem as well as the steps needed to design, develop, test and evaluate the solution to the problem. Candidates will be required to complete a task by creating and developing a multimedia solution with appropriate elements such as: sound clips video animation graphics Solutions may include but are not limited to: a multimedia presentation a multimedia website a computer game The problem will be set by the board and will require the candidate to create a multimedia solution which combines a number of elements. Candidates will need to provide evidence of the analysis of the problem as well as the design, development, testing and evaluation of the solution. Candidates will take part in group work and their contribution to the group will be assessed. It is expected that a number of skills will be demonstrated, including appropriate editing skills. Candidates solutions will be marked against the marking criteria using the best fit approach. This unit will incorporate and build on the knowledge and understanding gained in units B061 and B Analysis Analysis Candidates should be able to: (i) identify and assess existing solutions to similar problems (ii) produce a plan/design specification for the development of a multimedia solution (iii) specify the required hardware and software (iv) specify the user requirements (v) define the success criteria for a solution to a problem Design Design Candidates should be able to: (i) explain how the proposed solution will be fit for purpose (ii) design individual components of the solution (iii) design screen layouts (iv) design the overall solution incorporating navigational aids (v) design testing routines 18 OCR 2009

19 2.4.3 Development Development Candidates should be able to: (i) create new, or modify existing, components of a solution (ii) create screen layouts (iii) create navigational aids (iv) create a working solution (v) adhere to the prepared solution plan Testing Testing Evaluation Evaluation Working with others Working with others Candidates should be able to: (i) test the solution they have produced (ii) have potential users test their solution Candidates should be able to: (i) use the results of testing, identify the limitations of their solution (ii) use the results of testing and recommend possible improvements to their solution (iii) evaluate the solution with regard to purpose (iv) evaluate the solution with regard to the success criteria (v) improve their solution Candidates should be able to: (i) plan straightforward work with others, identifying objectives and clarifying responsibilities (ii) work with others towards achieving given objectives, carrying out tasks to meet their responsibilities (iii) recommend ways of improving work with others to achieve given objectives OCR

20 2.5 Unit B065: Coding a solution There will be a board set scenario within which the candidates identify a potential coded solution to a problem using basic programming techniques. The scenario will be sufficiently open to allow a variety of viable solutions. This unit will incorporate and build on the knowledge and understanding gained in units B061 and B Programming techniques Candidates should be able to: Analysis Design (i) identify and use the three basic programming constructs used to control the flow of a program: sequence; select; iterate (ii) understand and use suitable select statements (iii) understand and use suitable loops including count and condition controlled loops (iv) use different data types including Boolean, String, Integer and Real appropriately in solutions to problems (v) define and use arrays as appropriate when solving problems Planning the development of a coded solution to a problem. Candidates should be able to: (i) identify the information required to solve a problem (ii) produce a plan for the development of the solution (iii) specify the required hardware and software (iv) define the success criteria for later reference during evaluation (v) participate in group work Design a coded solution to a problem by developing suitable algorithms and test procedures Candidates should be able to: (i) describe how the proposed solution will be fit for purpose (ii) design individual components of the solution (iii) design input and output formats (iv) design an overall solution using suitable algorithms (v) design testing routines 20 OCR 2009

21 2.5.4 Development Create a coded solution showing how each sub-section is completed and forms part of the whole solution, fully annotating the developed code to explain its function. Candidates should be able to: (i) create a coded solution (ii) create systems for input to and output from the solution (iii) create navigational paths and methods (iv) create a working solution (v) adhere to a prepared plan of solution Testing Evaluation Test the solution to show functionality and how it matches the design criteria. Identify success and any limitations, describing ways the solution can be improved. Candidates should be able to: (i) test a solution they have produced (ii) have potential users test their solution (iii) test solutions that other people have produced Candidates should be able to: (i) use the results of testing, identify the limitations of their solution (ii) use the results of testing, and recommend possible improvements to their solution (iii) evaluate the solution with regard to purpose (iv) evaluate the solution with regard to the success criteria (v) improve their solution OCR

22 3 Assessment of GCSE ICT 3.1 Overview of the assessment in GCSE ICT GCSE ICT J461 Unit B061: ICT in today s world 20% of the total GCSE marks Candidates answer all questions. 1 hr written paper 60 marks This unit is externally assessed. Unit B062: Practical applications in ICT 30% of the total GCSE marks Controlled Assessment 60 marks Approx 20 hours Candidates choose one task from a list provided by OCR. In addition to the formal 20 hours of Controlled Assessment, there should also be further teaching time to increase the candidates depth of knowledge and understanding in preparation for the Controlled Assessment. (Up to 8 hours in research/preparation and up to 12 hours in producing the final outcome.) This unit is internally assessed and externally moderated. Unit B063: ICT in context 20% of the total GCSE marks Candidates answer all questions. 1 hr written paper 60 marks This unit is externally assessed. Unit B064: Creative use of ICT 30% of the total GCSE marks Controlled Assessment 60 marks Approx 20 hours Candidates choose one task from a list provided by OCR. In addition to the formal 20 hours of Controlled Assessment, there should also be further teaching time to increase the candidates depth of knowledge and understanding in preparation for the Controlled Assessment. (Up to 8 hours in research/preparation and up to 12 hours in producing the final outcome.) This unit is internally assessed and externally moderated. Unit B065: Coding a solution 30% of the total GCSE marks Controlled Assessment 60 marks Approx 20 hours Candidates choose one task from a list provided by OCR. In addition to the formal 20 hours of Controlled Assessment, there should also be further teaching time to increase the candidates depth of knowledge and understanding in preparation for the Controlled Assessment. (Up to 8 hours in research/preparation and up to 12 hours in producing the final outcome.) This unit is internally assessed and externally moderated. 22 OCR 2009

23 Candidates taking the GCSE (Short Course) in ICT J061 will need to be entered for units B061 and B Tiers This scheme of assessment is untiered, covering all of the ability range grades from A* to G. Candidates achieving less than the minimum mark for Grade G will be ungraded. 3.3 Assessment Objectives Candidates are expected to demonstrate the following in the context of the content described: AO1 AO2 AO3 Recall, select and communicate Recall, select and communicate their knowledge and understanding of ICT Apply knowledge, understanding and skills Apply knowledge, understanding and skills to produce ICT-based solutions Analyse and evaluate AO weightings GCSE ICT Analyse, evaluate, make reasoned judgements and present conclusions The relationship between the units and the assessment objectives of the scheme of assessment is shown in the following grid: Unit % of GCSE AO1 AO2 AO3 Total Unit B061: ICT in today s world Unit B062: Practical applications in ICT Unit B063: ICT in context Unit B064: Creative use of ICT Unit B065: Coding a solution Total OCR

24 AO weightings GCSE (Short Course) ICT The relationship between the units and the assessment objectives of the scheme of assessment is shown in the following grid: Unit % of GCSE AO1 AO2 AO3 Total Unit B061: ICT in today s world Unit B062: Practical applications in ICT Total Grading and awarding grades Both GCSE (Short Course) and GCSE results are awarded on the scale A* to G. Units are awarded a* to g. Grades are indicated on certificates. However, results for candidates who fail to achieve the minimum grade (G or g) will be recorded as unclassified (U or u) and will not be certificated. Both GCSE (Short Course) and GCSE are unitised schemes. Candidates can take units across several different series provided the terminal rules are satisfied. They can also re-sit units or choose from optional units available. When working out candidates overall grades OCR needs to be able to compare performance on the same unit in different series when different grade boundaries have been set, and between different units. OCR uses a Uniform Mark Scale to enable this to be done. A candidate s uniform mark for each unit is calculated from the candidate s raw marks on that unit. The raw mark boundary marks are converted to the equivalent uniform mark boundary. Marks between grade boundaries are converted on a pro rata basis. When unit results are issued, the candidate s unit grade and uniform mark are given. The uniform mark is shown out of the maximum uniform mark for the unit, e.g. 40/60. The specification is graded on a Uniform Mark Scale. The uniform mark thresholds for each of the assessments are shown below: (GCSE) Unit Weighting Maximum Unit Uniform Mark Unit Grade a* a b c d e f g u 20% % OCR 2009

25 Candidate s uniform marks for each unit are aggregated and grades for the specification are generated on the following scale: Qualification GCSE (Short Course) Max Qualification Grade Uniform A* A B C D E F G Mark U GCSE The written papers will have a total weighting of 40% and Controlled Assessment task have a weighting of 60%. A candidate s uniform mark for each paper will be combined with the uniform mark for the Controlled Assessment to give a total uniform mark for the specification. The candidate s grade will be determined by the total uniform mark. 3.5 Grade descriptions Grade descriptions are provided to give a general indication of the standards of achievement likely to have been shown by candidates awarded particular grades. The descriptions must be interpreted in relation to the content in the specification; they are not designed to define that content. The grade awarded will depend in practice upon the extent to which the candidate has met the assessment objectives overall. Shortcomings in some aspects of the assessment may be balanced by better performance in others. The grade descriptors have been produced by the regulatory authorities in collaboration with the awarding bodies. Grade F Candidates recall, select and communicate a basic knowledge and understanding of aspects of ICT, including its use in the wider world. They apply limited knowledge, understanding and skills to address simple problems and create basic solutions using ICT tools. They select and present data and information, and use simple models and instructions. They demonstrate some awareness of the need for safe, secure and responsible practices. They respond to needs using ICT. They sometimes review and provide comments on the way they and others use ICT. They make simple modifications to their work in the light of progress. They use ICT to communicate, demonstrating limited awareness of purpose and audience. OCR

26 Grade C Candidates recall, select and communicate a good knowledge and understanding of ICT, including the impact of its social and commercial use. They apply knowledge, understanding and skills in a range of situations, applying ICT tools appropriately to address problems and provide ICT-based solutions. They select information and process data. They model situations, sequence instructions, select and use information, and explore ideas. They work using safe, secure and responsible practices. They analyse ways of addressing needs using ICT. They review and evaluate the way they and others use ICT. They review their work and make improvements where appropriate. They use ICT to communicate, demonstrating consideration of purpose and audience. Grade A Candidates recall, select and communicate a thorough knowledge and understanding of a broad range of ICT including the impact of its social and commercial use. They apply knowledge, understanding and skills to a variety of situations, selecting and using a range of ICT tools efficiently to solve problems and produce effective ICT-based solutions. They manipulate and process data efficiently and effectively. They effectively model situations, sequence instructions, interpret information and creatively explore and develop ideas. They work systematically and understand and adopt safe, secure and responsible practices. They systematically analyse problems, identifying needs and opportunities. They critically analyse and evaluate the way they and others use ICT. They iteratively review their work and make improvements where appropriate. They use ICT to communicate effectively, demonstrating a clear sense of purpose and audience. 3.6 Quality of written communication Quality of written communication is assessed in all units. Candidates are expected to: ensure that text is legible and that spelling, punctuation and grammar are accurate so that meaning is clear present information in a form that suits its purpose use a suitable structure and style of writing 26 OCR 2009

27 3.7 Computer-based tests Please use the information in Appendix B to ensure that the centre has the technical capability to administer the computer-based tests required for this specification. Please note it is the responsibility of the Head of Centre to ensure that the centre is appropriately equipped to administer the tests in terms of system requirements and venue requirements. The Exams Officer within the centre is responsible for the conduct of the computer-based tests within the bounds of the Instructions for the Conduct of Examinations issued by the Joint Council for Qualifications. Any queries concerning computer-based tests should be directed to etest@ocr.org.uk. OCR

28 4 Controlled Assessment in GCSE ICT This section provides general guidance on controlled assessment: what controlled assessment tasks are, when and how they are available; how to plan and manage control assessment and what controls must be applied throughout the process. More specific guidance and support is provided in the Guide for Controlled Assessment in GCSE ICT, available on the OCR website. 4.1 Controlled assessment tasks All controlled assessment tasks are set by OCR. Controlled assessment tasks will be available from Interchange from 1 June and will be reviewed every two years. Guidance on how to access controlled assessment tasks from Interchange is available on the OCR website: link to be given here. Centres must ensure that candidates undertake a task applicable to the correct year of the examination by checking carefully the examination dates of the tasks on Interchange. 4.2 Planning and managing controlled assessment Controlled assessment task are available at an early stage to allow planning time. It is anticipated that candidates will spend a total of about 20 hours in producing the work for each unit. Candidates should be allowed sufficient time to complete the tasks. Suggested steps and timings are included below, with guidance on regulatory controls at each step of the process. Teachers must ensure that control requirements indicated below are met throughout the process Preparation and research time Introduction to the task (teacher led) 1 hour Includes choice of tasks, possible approaches and preparation, time allocations, programmes of work and deadlines, methods of working, control requirements. Preparation/research/collection of evidence 8 hours In the preparation/research stage/collection of evidence, a low level of control is required, which means that candidates can undertake this part of the process without direct teacher supervision and outside the centre as required. Candidates are also able to work in collaboration during this stage. However, when producing their final piece of work, candidates must complete and evidence individually. all work 28 OCR 2009

29 During the preparation/research/collection of evidence phase candidates can be given support and guidance. Teachers can explain the task, advise as to how the task could be approached, give advice on available resources and alert the candidate to key things that must be included in their final piece of work. Research material may include internet- or paper-based research, interviews, questionnaires, audio and video files. Candidates must be guided on the use of information from other sources to ensure that confidentiality and intellectual property rights are maintained at all times. It is essential that any material directly used from a source is appropriately and rigorously referenced Producing the final piece of work The final piece of work is produced in the centre under controlled conditions, which means under direct teacher supervision. It is expected that the production of the final outcome for each unit will take approximately 12 hours. Teachers must be able to authenticate the work and there must be acknowledgement and referencing of any sources used. When supervising tasks, teachers are expected to: exercise continuing supervision of work in order to monitor progress and to prevent plagiarism exercise continuing supervision of practical work to ensure essential compliance with Health and Safety requirements ensure that the work is completed in accordance with the specification requirements and can be assessed in accordance with the specified marking criteria and procedures Teachers must not provide templates, model answers or feedback on drafts. Candidates must work independently to produce their own final piece of work Presentation of the final piece of work Candidates must observe certain procedures in the production of controlled assessment tasks. Tables, graphs and spreadsheets may be produced using appropriate ICT. These should be inserted into the report at the appropriate place. Any copied material must be suitably acknowledged. Quotations must be clearly marked and a reference provided wherever possible. OCR

30 Work submitted for moderation must be marked with the: centre number centre name candidate number candidate name unit code and title assignment title Work submitted on paper for moderation or marking must be secured by treasury tags. Work submitted in digital format (CD or via the OCR Repository) must be in a suitable file structure as detailed in Appendix A at the end of this specification. 4.3 Marking and moderating controlled assessment All controlled assessed units are marked by the centre assessor(s) using OCR marking criteria and guidance and are moderated by the OCR-appointed moderator. External moderation is either postal moderation or e-moderation where evidence in a digital format is supplied Applying the assessment criteria The starting point for marking the tasks is the marking criteria. These contain levels of criteria for the skills, knowledge and understanding that the candidate is required to demonstrate Use of best fit approach to marking criteria The assessment task for each unit should be marked by teachers according to the given marking criteria within the relevant unit using a best fit approach. For each of the assessment objectives/criteria, teachers select one of the three band descriptors provided in the marking grid that most closely describes the quality of the work being marked. Marking should be positive, rewarding achievement rather than penalising failure or omissions. The award of marks must be directly related to the marking criteria. Teachers use their professional judgement in selecting the band descriptor that best describes the work of the candidate. To select the most appropriate mark within the band descriptor, teachers should use the following guidance: where the candidate s work convincingly meets the statement, the highest mark should be awarded 30 OCR 2009

31 where the candidate s work adequately meets the statement, the most appropriate mark in the middle range should be awarded where the candidate s work just meets the statement, the lowest mark should be awarded Teachers should use the full range of marks available to them and award full marks in any band for work which fully meets that descriptor. This is work which is the best one could expect from candidates working at that level. Where there are only two marks within a band the choice will be between work which, in most respects, meets the statement and work which just meets the statement. For wider mark bands the marks on either side of the middle mark(s) for adequately met should be used where the standard is lower or higher than adequate but not the highest or lowest mark in the band. Only one mark per assessment objective/criteria will be entered. The final mark for the candidate for the Controlled Assessment unit is out of a total of 60 and is found by totalling the marks for each of the marking objective/criteria strands Authentication of work Teachers must be confident that the work they mark is the candidate s own. This does not mean that a candidate must be supervised throughout the completion of all work but the teacher must exercise sufficient supervision, or introduce sufficient checks, to be in a position to judge the authenticity of the candidate s work. Wherever possible, the teacher should discuss work-in-progress with candidates. This will not only ensure that work is underway in a planned and timely manner but will also provide opportunities for assessors to check authenticity of the work and provide general feedback. Candidates must not plagiarise. Plagiarism is the submission of another s work as one s own and/or failure to acknowledge the source correctly. Plagiarism is considered to be malpractice and could lead to the candidate being disqualified. Plagiarism sometimes occurs innocently when candidates are unaware of the need to reference or acknowledge their sources. It is therefore important that centres ensure that candidates understand that the work they submit must be their own and that they understand the meaning of plagiarism and what penalties may be applied. Candidates may refer to research, quotations or evidence but they must list their sources. The rewards from acknowledging sources, and the credit they will gain from doing so, should be emphasised to candidates as well as the potential risks of failing to acknowledge such material. Candidates may be asked to sign a declaration to this effect. Centres should reinforce this message to ensure candidates understand what is expected of them. Please note: Centres must confirm to OCR that the evidence produced by candidates is authentic. The Centre Authentication Form includes a declaration for assessors to sign and is available from the OCR website and Interchange Internal standardisation It is important that all internal assessors, working in the same subject area, work to common standards. Centres must ensure that the internal standardisation of marks across assessors and teaching groups takes place using an appropriate procedure. OCR

32 This can be done in a number of ways. In the first year, reference material and OCR training meetings will provide a basis for centres own standardisation. In subsequent years, this, or centres own archive material, may be used. Centres are advised to hold preliminary meetings of staff involved to compare standards by cross-marking a small sample of work. After most marking has been completed, a further meeting at which work is exchanged and discussed will enable final adjustments to be made Moderation All work for Controlled Assessment is marked by the teacher and internally standardised by the centre. Marks are then submitted to OCR, after which moderation takes place in accordance with OCR procedures: refer to the OCR website for submission dates of the marks to OCR. The purpose of moderation is to ensure that the standard of the award of marks for work is the same for each centre and that each teacher has applied the standards appropriately across the range of candidates within the centre. The sample of work which is presented to the Moderator for moderation must show how the marks have been awarded in relation to the marking criteria. Each candidate s work should have a cover sheet attached to it with a summary of the marks awarded for the task. If the work is to be submitted in digital format, this cover sheet should also be submitted electronically within each candidate s files. 4.4 Submitting the moderation samples via the OCR Repository The OCR Repository allows centres to submit moderation samples in electronic format. The OCR GCSE ICT units B062, B064 and B065 can be submitted electronically to the OCR Repository via Interchange: please check Section for unit entry codes for the OCR Repository. Instructions for how to upload files to OCR using the OCR Repository can be found on OCR Interchange and in the Controlled Assessment Guide for GCSE ICT available from the OCR website. There should be clear evidence that work has been attempted and some work produced. If a candidate submits no work for an internally assessed component, then the candidate should be indicated as being absent from that component on the mark sheets submitted to OCR. If a candidate completes any work at all for an internally assessed component, then the work should be assessed according to the internal assessment objectives and marking instructions and the appropriate mark awarded, which may be zero. 32 OCR 2009

33 5 Support for GCSE ICT 5.1 Free resources available from the OCR website The following materials will be available on the OCR website : GCSE ICT Specification Specimen assessment materials for each unit, including sample computer based tests Guide to Controlled Assessment Teachers Handbook Sample Schemes of Work and Lesson Plans for each unit 5.2 Other resources OCR offers centres a wealth of quality published support with a fantastic choice of Official Publisher Partner and Approved Publication resources, all endorsed by OCR for use with OCR specifications. OCR works in close collaboration with three Publisher Partners: Hodder Education, Heinemann and Oxford University Press (OUP) to ensure centres have access to: published support, available when you need it, tailored to OCR specifications quality resources produced in consultation with OCR subject teams, which are linked to OCR s teacher support materials more resources for specifications with lower candidate entries materials which are subject to a thorough quality assurance process to achieve endorsement Hodder Education is the publisher partner for OCR GCSE ICT. OCR still endorses other publisher materials, which undergo a thorough quality assurance process to achieve endorsement. By offering a choice of endorsed materials, centres can be assured of quality support for all OCR qualifications. OCR

34 5.3 Training OCR is providing a comprehensive programme of (training) events to support the delivery and assessment of GCSE ICT. They are designed to give you a taste of our new specifications direct from the experts, providing useful information and an opportunity to chat with our team. To search for details of courses near you and to book your place, please visit OCR Support Services OCR Interchange OCR Interchange has been developed to help you to carry out day to day administration functions online, quickly and easily. The site allows you to register and enter candidates online. In addition, you can gain immediate free access to candidate information at you convenience. Sign up at Active Results Active Results is a free-to-use service which helps teachers review the performance of individual candidates and their own school's performance. Results can be analysed at a variety of levels from centre and specification down to question and item level. National Key Stage 3 data is used to provide value added progress measures. This is an exclusive feature of the service that allows centres to put their achievements into context. Devised specifically for the UK market, data can be analysed using filters on several categories such as gender and other demographic information, as well as providing breakdowns of results by question and topic. Active Results will allow you to look in greater detail at your results: Richer and more granular data will be made available to centres including question level data available from e-marking and e-testing. Linking candidate data available from OCR (grades, marks, question level) with national data already available to the centre (prior attainment and contextual data for candidates). Identify the strengths and weaknesses of individual candidates and your centre's cohort as a whole within specific qualifications. 34 OCR 2009