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
Learning Outcome: Students will explain how the internet works and the importance of web safety.
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?
Core Competencies: Creativity, logical reasoning.
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
Learning Outcome: Students will create visual representations of data to communicate findings
effectively.
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?
Core Competencies: Ethical reasoning, critical thinking.
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.
