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Nichola Wilkin - Computer Science

Average Rating4.64
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These refreshingly different teaching resources enable you to teach great lessons that help your pupils engage with the subject matter. I’m an experienced teacher and HoD and professionally create computing and computer science teaching resources through my company Nichola Wilkin Ltd. All these resources have been exclusively created by me. I’m an author who has written for both BBC Bitesize and Cambridge University Press. Quality teaching resources you can trust!

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These refreshingly different teaching resources enable you to teach great lessons that help your pupils engage with the subject matter. I’m an experienced teacher and HoD and professionally create computing and computer science teaching resources through my company Nichola Wilkin Ltd. All these resources have been exclusively created by me. I’m an author who has written for both BBC Bitesize and Cambridge University Press. Quality teaching resources you can trust!
Acceptable Use Of ICT Policy (Pupil)
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Acceptable Use Of ICT Policy (Pupil)

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At the start of every term I get many emails and phone calls from teachers who have recently taken over as the head of Computer Science and are unsure where to start. Some of them are walking into a well-ordered department where everything is laid out and ready-to-go, others are not so lucky. Often, they are the only person in that department and so don’t have anywhere to turn to ask for help. And then the headteacher casually strolls into your room when you have barely been for a day and asks you for your ICT policy document by the end of the week. Gulp! Not to worry, I have this one ready to go and better still it is completely free! With a brief read through, only some minor tweaking to make it fit your school and copying them into your schools template it should satisfy your headteacher and give you a bit of valuable breathing space while you try to get your head around the one hundred and one other things you need to do. Acceptable Use Of ICT Policy For Pupils The acceptable use of ICT policy is for pupils and includes an acceptance form, they need to sign and hand back to you. Make sure you insert your school name in the first paragraph of page 1 and if you are printing it out to send home you will probably want to copy it into your schools’ template.
School Data Protection Policy
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School Data Protection Policy

(0)
At the start of every term I get many emails and phone calls from teachers who have recently taken over as the head of Computer Science and are unsure where to start. Some of them are walking into a well-ordered department where everything is laid out and ready-to-go, others are not so lucky. Often, they are the only person in that department and so don’t have anywhere to turn to ask for help. And then the headteacher casually strolls into your room when you have barely been for a day and asks you for your ICT policy document by the end of the week. Gulp! Not to worry, I have this one ready to go and better still it is completely free! With a brief read through, only some minor tweaking to make it fit your school and copying them into your schools template it should satisfy your headteacher and give you a bit of valuable breathing space while you try to get your head around the one hundred and one other things you need to do. School Data Protection Policy A School Data Protection policy isn’t really your responsibility as head of computer science and is something somebody who has received adequate training should be looking after. The name of the allocated data protection officer (DPO) and their contact details should be inserted into section 5.2 (Data protection officer) and is usually somebody in the admin team.
Programming Languages and IDEs OCR GCSE Computer Science Workbook (J277)
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Programming Languages and IDEs OCR GCSE Computer Science Workbook (J277)

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This FREE programming languages and IDEs workbook is perfect for students studying for the OCR GCSE (9-1) in computer science and has been updated to completely cover the new specification J277. It can be used in the classroom as a teaching aid, for self-study or as a revision tool. In this resource you will receive an interactive PDF workbook so your students can either print it out and complete the activities by hand or fill it in electronically making this an ideal workbook for use in school or for students studying at home. The answer booklet is provided as a separate PDF file so you can assign your students the workbook without including the answers. This free 12-page workbook completely covers the new specification J277 2.5 Programming Logic and Integrated Development Environments (IDE) theory. Table of Contents: Characteristics and purpose of different levels of programming languages Machine Code Assembly language High-level languages The purpose of translators Source code Compilers Integrated development environments (IDEs) Editors Error diagnostics Run-time environments Translators . You may also be interested in these workbooks which have also been written to cover the J277 specification: Systems Architecture Memory and Storage Computer networks, connections and protocols Network Security Systems Software Ethical, Legal, Cultural and Environmental Impacts Algorithms Programming Fundamentals Producing Robust Programs Boolean Logic
Boolean Logic OCR GCSE Computer Science Workbook (J277)
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Boolean Logic OCR GCSE Computer Science Workbook (J277)

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This FREE Boolean logic workbook is perfect for students studying for the OCR GCSE (9-1) in computer science and has been updated to completely cover the new specification J277. It can be used in the classroom as a teaching aid, for self-study or as a revision tool. In this resource you will receive an interactive PDF workbook so your students can either print it out and complete the activities by hand or fill it in electronically making this an ideal workbook for use in school or for students studying at home. The answer booklet is provided as a separate PDF file so you can assign your students the workbook without including the answers. BONUS RESOURCE: This resource also includes a PowerPoint presentation that allows pupils to easily create neat logic circuits by simply dragging the options into the desired position. Clear instructions are given in the presentation on how to use it. This free 12-page workbook completely covers the new specification J277 32.4 Boolean Logic theory. Table of Contents: Simple logic diagrams using the operators AND, OR and NOT Truth tables Combining Boolean operators using AND, OR and NOT Applying logical operators in truth tables to solve problems . You may also be interested in these workbooks which have also been written to cover the J277 specification: Systems Architecture Memory and Storage Computer networks, connections and protocols Network Security Systems Software Ethical, Legal, Cultural and Environmental Impacts Algorithms Programming Fundamentals Producing Robust Programs Programming Languages and IDEs
Acceptable Use of ICT Policy (Staff)
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Acceptable Use of ICT Policy (Staff)

(0)
At the start of every term I get many emails and phone calls from teachers who have recently taken over as the head of Computer Science and are unsure where to start. Some of them are walking into a well-ordered department where everything is laid out and ready-to-go, others are not so lucky. Often, they are the only person in that department and so don’t have anywhere to turn to ask for help. And then the headteacher casually strolls into your room when you have barely been for a day and asks you for your ICT policy document by the end of the week. Gulp! Not to worry, I have this one ready to go and better still it is completely free! With a brief read through, only some minor tweaking to make it fit your school and copying them into your schools template it should satisfy your headteacher and give you a bit of valuable breathing space while you try to get your head around the one hundred and one other things you need to do. Acceptable Use Of ICT Policy For Staff The acceptable use of ICT policy is for staff and is a little more detailed than my policy for pupils. This can also be coped into your school template and requires staff to sign the last page.
History of Computers Lesson
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History of Computers Lesson

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This lesson teaches the pupils about the history of computers. It uses animations to tell the story in an interesting and entertaining way. As the pupils learn the history they fill in a worksheet which you can go through with the whole class. They then complete a word search identifying the key people in developing technology and finally they play a game to recap what they have learnt. Suitable for GCSE Computer Science classes and KS3 Computing and ICT classes.
Python Printable Dictionary
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Python Printable Dictionary

(20)
This is a quick reference guide to help pupils (and teachers) find the correct syntax for common lines of code in Python. Best used as a memory aid rather than a teaching aid. Print as a Booklet for best layout. Suitable for GCSE Computer Science classes and KS3 Computing classes.
Understanding Bitmap Images Lesson
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Understanding Bitmap Images Lesson

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This lesson teachers pupils about how bitmap images are created and processed and includes topics such as grid size, colour depth and compression techniques. The pupils practice creating simple bit map images and then find an image and practice saving the files in different formats to see the difference between lossy and lossless compression. Suitable for GCSE Computer Science classes and KS3 Computing and ICT classes.
Drawing with Scratch Lesson
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Drawing with Scratch Lesson

(5)
This lesson allows pupils to practice using the pen tool in Scratch and uses the ‘repeat’ function to create mathematical shapes. This lesson does assume the pupils have a basic understanding of using Scratch.
COMPUTING Year 7 Baseline Assessment (On-line version)
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COMPUTING Year 7 Baseline Assessment (On-line version)

(11)
This test is to be given to year 7 pupils to test their current knowledge of key computing areas. This will help you understand their current strengths and weaknesses at the beginning of year 7 and includes a useful spreadsheet which not only highlights pupils understanding but also groups it by class and even primary school to help you inform your feeder schools which areas they need to work on and may need additional help with and which areas they have covered well. The key skills covered in this test are: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, saving files, programming, using the internet, e-safety and computer theory. Due to popular demand, I have interpreted the marks awarded to the old-style level descriptors (i.e. if they score 30 on the test or 45%, this would be equivalent to a 4C). Hope this helps. 2A - 5 marks (7%) 3C - 10 marks (15%) 3B - 12 marks (18%) 3A - 20 marks (30%) 4C - 28 marks (42%) 4B - 36 marks (54%) 4A - 42 marks (63%) 5C - 48 marks (72%) 5B - 54 marks (81%) 5A - 60 marks (90%) 6C - 64 marks (96%) PLEASE NOTE: This test is an on-line document which the pupils fill in using Word, which can be either printed or sent to you electronically for marking but if you would prefer the pupils use a traditional paper-based test then please see our other set of resources from https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/computing-year-7-baseline-assessment-paper-based-test-11355751
Python Glossary
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Python Glossary

(5)
In an attempt to make pupils slightly more self-sufficient, here is a 10 page PDF glossary of some key Python terms with a brief explanation of each. Ideal to have a few printed out and ready to give to pupils who need them. Can be used as part of the programming project resource bank.
INSET Day Bingo
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INSET Day Bingo

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A little something to help pass the time through the endless meetings of INSET day. Simply print it out and cross off the items as they undoubtedly occur.
Validation and verification in a robust program
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Validation and verification in a robust program

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Ever wondered what the exam boards mean by a robust program? Here is a working example of a robust program created in Python. It includes the Python program, an SQL database it links to along with a walkthrough PDF explaining the main points of the program. The program displays the following programming skills: Selection Iteration String manipulation Using logical and Boolean operators Creating and calling subprograms Passing variables between subprograms Validation Verification Writing to and reading from an external file Searching for data using SQL Good programming practice Please note: This is a robust program, however that does not make it indestructible :)
COMPUTING Year 7 Baseline Assessment (paper based test)
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COMPUTING Year 7 Baseline Assessment (paper based test)

(45)
This test is to be given to year 7 pupils to test their current knowledge of key computing areas. This will help you understand their current strengths and weaknesses at the beginning of year 7 and includes a useful spreadsheet which not only highlights pupils understanding but also groups it by class and even primary school to help you inform your feeder schools which areas they need to work on and may need additional help with and which areas they have covered well. The key skills covered in this test are: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, saving files, programming, using the internet, e-safety and computer theory. Due to popular demand, I have interpreted the marks awarded to the old-style level descriptors (i.e. if they score 30 on the test or 45%, this would be equivalent to a 4C). Hope this helps. 2A - 5 marks (7%) 3C - 10 marks (15%) 3B - 12 marks (18%) 3A - 20 marks (30%) 4C - 28 marks (42%) 4B - 36 marks (54%) 4A - 42 marks (63%) 5C - 48 marks (72%) 5B - 54 marks (81%) 5A - 60 marks (90%) 6C - 64 marks (96%) PLEASE NOTE: This test is a paper-based test, if you would prefer the pupils to fill in an on-line document which can be either printed or sent to you electronically then please see our other set of resources from https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/computing-year-7-baseline-assessment-on-line-version-11355832
Scratch Lessons
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Scratch Lessons

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One of the most popular FREE teaching resources on TES. Now updated and improved to use the latest version of Scratch. This FREE 6 lesson unit can be used to teach Scratch to KS2 pupils. Grab your copy of this Scratch unit now, your students will love it. WHAT IS INCLUDED? These 6 Scratch programming lessons include attractive dyslexia friendly PowerPoint presentations which include videos to teach the key skills. Easy to follow teacher lessons plans making this suitable for non-specialist teachers. Simple student friendly self-evaluation forms which can be completed either on paper-based worksheets or as on-screen editable PDF files to show students their progress through the unit. Easy to use teacher marksheet in the form of an Excel spreadsheet making your like easier when it comes to reporting on students’ progress. 5 Scratch programs that are partially completed for your students to use along with completed versions for you to use as a demonstration of a possible solution. WHAT DOES THIS UNIT TEACH YOUR STUDENTS? This unit is suitable for pupils in KS2. It does not assume any prior programming knowledge and covers the following guidelines in the National Curriculum: design, write and debug programs that accomplish specific goals, including controlling or simulating physical systems; solve problems by decomposing them into smaller parts use sequence, selection, and repetition in programs; work with variables and various forms of input and output use logical reasoning to explain how some simple algorithms work and to detect and correct errors in algorithms and programs . **NUMBER OF LESSONS ** Recommend 6 x 1 hour lessons, although this will work with slightly shorter or longer lessons. **SUITABILITY ** This project is suitable for mixed ability classes. DIFFERENTIATION Lessons are differentiated by outcome and this is reflected in the success criteria and part of each lesson involves the students working independently, freeing up the teacher to offer more one-to-one help to the students who need it. Download this FREE unit now and take control of your workload. HAVE YOU ALSO SEEN…? You may also like my SCRATCH FLASH CARD BUNDLE to help you with your planning.
Understanding Binary
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Understanding Binary

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A great introduction to understanding binary. These ready to use lessons will save you hours of preparation and can easily be adapted to meet your own requirements. WHAT IS INCLUDED? In this unit you have 2 ready-to-use lessons: Converting 5-bit binary numbers into denary Converting denary numbers into binary . Everything you need is included such as: a very high-quality accessible PowerPoint presentation for every lesson that effortlessly leads the teacher through the lesson and includes all the answers to the many questions and tasks the students need to complete a 2-sided editable worksheet for every lesson an easy-to-follow editable lesson plan for every lesson . PRIOR LEARNING This is the perfect introduction to binary and does not expect the students to have any previous knowledge of converting between denary and binary. EASY TO USE These ready to use resources are so straightforward that although I have included a lesson plan, most teachers can teach straight from the PowerPoint presentation without any further assistance. And best of all, the answers are included saving you time and energy. This makes these lessons suitable for experienced computing specialist teachers along with non-specialists and early career teachers (ECTs). EDITABLE RESOURCES I understand that teachers want to adapt their resources, so I’ve made the bold decision to make these resources editable. Therefore, if you need to use a particular template style for your school, you can change the PowerPoint presentation, worksheet and lesson plan to suit your needs. If you have students with specific educational needs, you can change the lesson to suit them. It gives you the flexibility to alter the lessons to suit your own particular needs. SCIENTIFICALLY PROVEN TEACHING TECHNIQUES These teaching resources have been specifically designed to aid pupils using educational psychology backed theories including dual coding, Mayer’s theory and the best techniques to alleviate cognitive load. Your students will have a higher retention rate, better and deeper understanding of the subject matter and will build their confidence in a natural way which reduces distractions and helps them focus on the learning. These lessons are highly interactive and engage students straight from the start. TEACHING TO THE TOP These lessons are designed to stretch all pupils. Instead of traditional differentiation which systematically underchallenges pupils, I raise the bar for everyone and then, as a teacher who knows your own students best, you can support individuals to reach their own full potential. Start reaping the benefits today of incredibly high-quality, professionally designed teaching resources that you can use with virtually no preparation. Just click on the BUY NOW button to download them straight away. You’ll wonder how you ever managed without them.
KS3 Python SoW Outline
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KS3 Python SoW Outline

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This free document outlines the lessons that can be used to teach Python programming covering the national curriculum requirements for a text based programming language for key stage 3. It outlines the lessons and provides links to make your job easier when searching for a comprehensive, high-quality set of lessons. It also includes a link to an end of unit assessment.
Welsh Computer Science Word Wall Display
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Welsh Computer Science Word Wall Display

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Getting your classroom ready for back to school? Here is a fully editable PowerPoint presentation that contains 60 common computer science words in Welsh and simple student-friendly definitions. They can be displayed as a permanent wall display or you can pick the words to display to compliment your current teaching goals. It is like having a computing dictionary on the walls of your classroom for the students to quickly refer to and can help with spellings of common computer science terminology as well as acting as a reminder of the meanings of computing terms. As it is fully editable you can add to and alter the definitions yourself to make a truly personalised learning wall display for your classes. These terms are suitable for KS3 computing and GCSE computer science classes. Each slide has been adjusted to print on A4 paper and it is recommended you print them in colour for maximum effect. The colours of the key terminology refer to the following categories: Blue – Programming and Algorithms Red – Networks Purple – Computer Systems Green – Cyber security Orange – Binary, Data and Logic With thanks to Dilwyn Owen for the kind translation into Welsh. You can download the English version of this resource from here: https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/computer-science-word-wall-display-12168842
Python Programming Challenges - Getting Started
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Python Programming Challenges - Getting Started

4 Resources
Want to learn Python programming? These 4 documents that include example Python code, tasks and programming challenges to complete to help students, NQTs and non-specialist teachers to learn the following Python programming skills: Input and print statements If statements For loops While loops Perfect for classroom activities, homework tasks and self-study. Answers are included.
Excel Test
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Excel Test

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This end of unit test can be used to assess the pupils understanding of Excel basic features and includes written and practical elements to the test. It asks questions on basic mathematical operators (+, -, * and /), the order of calculation (BODMAS), basic functions (SUM, AVERAGE, MIN and MAX), relative and absolute cell references, basics formatting, creating graphs along with sorting and filtering data. Suitable for GCSE ICT classes and KS3 Computing and ICT classes. Please note: The test and answer documents are provided in PDF format so are not editable. FREE BONUS PRODUCT INCLUDED As a special thank you for purchasing this product I am pleased to be able to also include a surprise FREE bonus gift. This gift is one of our complete resources which we will usually charge full price for but is yours absolutely free when you purchase this product. Just our little way of saying thank you to our valued customers. I hope you enjoy it and get use out of it, with my compliments.