Course overview

Grade 8 Computer Science Syllabus

Strand 1: Computer Systems

Sub strand 1.1: Computer Hardware and Software

Learning Outcome: Students will identify and explain the main components of computer systems and
the differences between hardware and software.

Inquiry Questions:

What are the key components of a computer?

How do hardware and software interact?

Core Competencies: Critical thinking, digital literacy.

Contemporary Issues: E-waste and its environmental impact.

Values: Respect for technology and its maintenance.

Learning Resources: Interactive computer hardware diagrams, videos on computer assembly.

Link to Other Learning Areas: Science (understanding circuits and electronics).

Sub strand 1.2: Operating Systems

Learning Outcome: Students will compare different operating systems and understand their functions.

Inquiry Questions:

What are the main functions of an operating system?

How do different operating systems cater to user needs?

Core Competencies: Analytical thinking, problem-solving.

Contemporary Issues: Software accessibility and user interface design.

Values: Appreciation for diversity in technology.

Learning Resources: OS tutorials, comparison charts.

Link to Other Learning Areas: Business (software applications).

Strand 2: Internet and Digital Communication

Substrand 2.1: Internet Fundamentals

Inquiry Questions:

How does the internet connect people worldwide?

What are the risks of using the internet?

Core Competencies: Information literacy, ethical reasoning.

Contemporary Issues: Internet privacy and data protection.

Values: Responsibility in online behavior.

Learning Resources: Infographics on internet infrastructure, articles on online safety.

Link to Other Learning Areas: Social Studies (global connectivity).

Sub strand 2.2: Digital Citizenship

Learning Outcome: Students will demonstrate responsible online behavior and understand the concept
of digital footprints.

Inquiry Questions:

What does it mean to be a good digital citizen?

How can we protect our digital identities?

Core Competencies: Social awareness, self-regulation.

Contemporary Issues: Cyberbullying and online harassment.

Values: Empathy and respect for others.

Learning Resources: Digital citizenship programs, case studies.

Link to Other Learning Areas: Health Education (mental health related to online interactions).

Strand 3: Programming and Problem Solving

Substrand 3.1: Introduction to Programming Concepts

Learning Outcome: Students will apply basic programming concepts to create simple programs.

Inquiry Questions:

What are the fundamental concepts of programming?

How can we break down a problem into smaller parts?

Contemporary Issues: The importance of coding literacy.

Values: Perseverance in problem-solving.

Learning Resources: Scratch tutorials, programming challenge platforms.

Link to Other Learning Areas: Mathematics (logic and algorithms).

Substrand 3.2: Project Development in Programming

Learning Outcome: Students will design, implement, and evaluate a programming project.

Inquiry Questions:

What steps are involved in project development?

How do we test and improve our code?

Core Competencies: Collaboration, project management.

Contemporary Issues: Ethical programming and bias in algorithms.

Values: Accountability for one’s work.

Learning Resources: Project templates, peer review guidelines.

Link to Other Learning Areas: Arts (game design and storytelling).

Strand 4: Data Management and Analysis

Substrand 4.1: Introduction to Spreadsheets

Learning Outcome: Students will utilize spreadsheets to organize and analyze data.

Inquiry Questions:

How can spreadsheets help us manage information?

What insights can we gain from data analysis?

Core Competencies: Data literacy, analytical skills.

Contemporary Issues: Data privacy and ethics in data collection.

Values: Integrity in data reporting.

Learning Resources: Spreadsheet software tutorials, sample datasets.

Link to Other Learning Areas: Business (finance and budgeting).

Substrand 4.2: Data Visualization

Inquiry Questions:

Why is data visualization important?

What types of charts are best for different data types?

Core Competencies: Communication, critical thinking.

Contemporary Issues: Misleading data visuals and media literacy.

Values: Transparency in information sharing.

Learning Resources: Chart creation tools, visualization examples.

Link to Other Learning Areas: Geography (mapping data).

Strand 5: Technology and Society

Substrand 5.1: Careers in Technology

Learning Outcome: Students will explore various careers in technology and the skills required for each.

Inquiry Questions:

What career opportunities are available in technology?

How do personal interests align with tech careers?

Core Competencies: Career awareness, goal-setting.

Contemporary Issues: The digital divide and access to technology careers.

Values: Lifelong learning and adaptability.

Learning Resources: Career exploration websites, guest speaker sessions.

Link to Other Learning Areas: Economics (employment trends).

Substrand 5.2: Ethical Considerations in Technology

Learning Outcome: Students will discuss the ethical implications of technology use.

Inquiry Questions:

What ethical dilemmas arise in technology?

How can we make responsible decisions regarding technology use?

Contemporary Issues: Privacy, surveillance, and technology's impact on society.

Values: Respect for individual rights and ethical integrity.

Learning Resources: Articles on ethics in tech, case studies.

Link to Other Learning Areas: Philosophy (discussions on ethics).

Assessment Methods

Quizzes and Tests: Evaluate understanding of key concepts.

Projects: Assess creativity, functionality, and technical skills.

Participation: Measure engagement in class discussions and group work.

Final Project: Capstone project showcasing learned skills and concepts.

Additional Considerations

Teaching Methods: Blend of lectures, hands-on activities, collaborative projects, and real-world
applications.

Adaptability: Adjust content based on student interests and current technology trends.