2 Understanding ICT at Key Stage 3

Teaching ICT effectively is not simply a matter of following the programme of study, but of understanding the conceptual framework which underpins the programme of study.

Look again at the National Curriculum programme of study [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)]   for ICT at KS3, in particular at Section 2 ‘Key processes’. The essential characteristics of each statement are underlined. For example, a key aspect of finding information is to know how to check its accuracy.

A number of these key aspect phrases reappear in the attainment target level descriptors on the final two pages of the document. For example, Level 5 includes ‘They [pupils] select the information they need for different purposes, check its accuracy ...’

Now have a look at Bloom's Taxonomy of learning domains. Another useful resource is Robert Fisher’s Thinking skills.

A useful ‘way in’ to Bloom’s Taxonomy is to look at the verbs associated with each domain category. This work has already been done at: http://www.teach-nology.com/ worksheets/ time_savers/ bloom/

Now read an updated version of Bloom's Taxonomy. As well as theory sections, this includes detailed expositions and rubrics which apply Bloom’s Taxonomy to the use of digital tools like word processing and blogging, as well as processes such as data analysis and evaluation.