Computer Science

The school now follows a Computer Science only curriculum in Years 10 and 11 which means that now, rather than learning how to work with computers, pupils learn how to create their own computers, computer networks and software to be run on them. Programming and Computational thinking make up a large proportion of the OCR course which is an extremely worthwhile skillset to possess, whether or not pupils wish to go on to study Computer Science further or pursue a career in it. Pupils learn how to write program code that processes data, creates graphics and manipulates files Computational thinking especially benefits pupils in the logical solving of problems, helping them in other subjects such as Mathematics, Physics and Engineering. As well as working on software, pupils will also discover the fundamental hardware components and system architecture of computers as well networking and what networks offer in terms of creative and destructive potential with network security and crime featuring heavily in the new OCR specification. Assessment is via two written papers both lasting 90 minutes each

Computer Systems

This component will introduce learners to the fundamentals of Computer Architecture, exploring the components and composition of the Central Processing Unit (CPU), computer memory and types of storage device. As well as this we explore how Operating Systems play a vital role in the running and maintenance of a computer as well as how they form the basis of a user friendly and effective system. Finally, the course examines the fundamentals of wired and wireless networks including their makeup, protocols and important pieces of hardware that connect the world many times over.

Computational thinking, Algorithms and Programming

This component incorporates and builds on the knowledge and understanding gained in Computer Systems, encouraging learners to apply this knowledge and understanding using computational thinking. Learners will be introduced to algorithms and programming, learning about programming techniques, how to produce robust programs, computational logic, translators and facilities of computing languages and data representation. Learners will become familiar with computing related mathematics.

Mr T Higham

Head of Computer Science and ICT t.higham@merchanttaylors.com

Mathematics

In common with many other HMC schools, Merchant Taylors’ students now follow an “international” GCSE in Mathematics as we feel it provides more of a challenge and a better bridge to A Level. The IGCSE course in Mathematics is an extension of the work covered in Years 7 to 9. It is the intention that all students will be entered for the higher Level IGCSE examination set by the EDEXCEL Examination Board Assessment is by two 2-hour papers In the past, some students have been offered the chance to be fast-tracked through the course, allowing time in Year 11 to embark on the AQA Further Mathematics Level 2 qualification. This supports the boys’ transition to A Level Mathematics and Further Mathematics in the Sixth Form.

The syllabus content for the Middle School is outlined below

Angles and Straight Lines

Circle Theorems

Constructions

Differentiation

Factorisation, Algebraic Fractions, Equations - completing the square Finding Formulae

Fractions, Recurring Decimals and Prime Factors

Functions

Graphs - including trig graphs and transformations

Inequalities

Limits of Accuracy – Upper and Lower Bounds

Means, Medians and Modes, Cumulative Frequency and Histograms

Percentages

Perimeters, Areas and Volumes

Polygons

Probability

Proof

Pythagoras, Trigonometry and Non Right-Angled Triangles

Quadratic Equations, Indices and Transposition of Formulae

Ratio and Proportion

Sequences - including arithmetic sequence and series

Sets

Similar Figures

Simultaneous Equations – Linear

Simultaneous Equations – Lines and Curves

Speed, Density and pressure

Standard Form

Straight Lines - including perpendicular lines

Surds

Transformations

Unit conversion

Use of Calculator

Vectors

Mr W Miles Head of Mathematics

w.miles@merchanttaylors.com

Modern Foreign Languages

The scheme of assessment is linear and the four skills of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing are equally weighted at 25% each of the final grade. All papers must be taken in the same exam series (in the summer term of Year 11). The specification is set out to cover three distinct topic areas. These topic areas apply to all four papers

3.1.1 Theme 1: Identity and culture

Theme 1: Identity and culture covers the following four topics with related sub-topics shown as bullet points:

Topic 1: Me, my family and friends

- Relationships with family and friends

- Marriage/partnership

Topic 2: Technology in everyday life

- Social media

- Mobile technology

Topic 3: Free-time activities

- Music

- Cinema and TV

- Food and eating out

- Sport

Topic 4: Customs and festivals

3.1.2 Theme 2: Local, national, international and global areas of interest

Theme 2 covers the following four topics with related sub-topics shown as bullet points:

Topic 1: Home, town, neighbourhood and region

Topic 2: Social issues

- Charity/voluntary work

- Healthy/unhealthy living

Topic 3: Global issues

- The environment

- Poverty/homelessness

Topic 4: Travel and tourism

3.1.3 Theme 3: Current and future study and employment

Theme 3: Current and future study and employment covers the following four topics:

Topic 1: My studies

Topic 2: Life at school/college

Topic 3: Education post-16

Topic 4: Jobs, career choices and ambitions

Mrs G. Eden

Head of Modern Foreign Languages g eden@merchanttaylors com