SS2 Scheme of Work for Second Term – Computer Studies: A Comprehensive Overview

In the second term of SS2 Computer Studies, students will focus on understanding the various aspects of computer data, file management, and security. They will explore the principles of data conversion, file handling, and methods for processing and protecting files. Additionally, students will examine word processing software, a crucial tool for computer literacy. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of each topic, supported by explanations and examples for a deeper understanding.

Scheme of Work: SS2 Second Term – Computer Studies

Detailed Explanation of Topics

Week 1: Computer Data Conversion I

What is Data Conversion? Data conversion refers to the process of converting data from one format to another. In computing, data is often represented in different numerical systems such as binary, decimal, hexadecimal, and octal.

Examples:

1. Binary to Decimal: Converting 1010 (binary) to 10 (decimal).
2. Decimal to Binary: Converting 15 (decimal) to 1111 (binary).
3. Binary to Hexadecimal: Converting 1010 (binary) to A (hexadecimal).
4. Octal to Decimal: Converting 17 (octal) to 15 (decimal).
5. Hexadecimal to Decimal: Converting 2F (hexadecimal) to 47 (decimal).
6. Decimal to Octal: Converting 10 (decimal) to 12 (octal).

Week 2: Computer Data Conversion (Bus)

What is a Bus in Computer Systems? A bus is a communication system that transfers data between components of a computer. Data buses are critical for moving binary data from one part of the system to another.

Examples:

1. Data Bus: Transfers actual data between the CPU, memory, and other devices.
2. Address Bus: Carries memory addresses for data retrieval.
3. Control Bus: Transfers control signals that manage the operations of the CPU.
4. Internal Bus: Connects the different parts of a computer’s motherboard.
5. External Bus: Used to connect external devices like USB drives to the computer.
6. Bus Speed: The rate at which data is transferred on the bus, often measured in MHz or GHz.

Week 3: Computer Files

What are Computer Files? Files are containers used to store data, programs, and information on a computer. Files come in various formats and can store data ranging from text to images and audio.

Examples:

1. Text Files (.txt): Store plain text, no formatting.
2. Word Files (.docx): Store formatted text documents, often used in word processors.
3. PDF Files (.pdf): A format used for sharing read-only documents with fixed formatting.
4. Image Files (.jpg, .png): Store graphical data, such as photographs.
5. Audio Files (.mp3, .wav): Store sound recordings.
6. Video Files (.mp4, .avi): Store video content.

Week 4: Methods of Accessing Files

How Are Files Accessed? Files can be accessed in different ways depending on the method used by the computer’s operating system or the application in use.

Examples:

1. Direct Access: Allows the program to directly read and write to any part of the file.
2. Sequential Access: Data is read or written in order, one part after another, such as in a tape drive.
3. Indexed Access: Uses an index to locate specific data in a file, common in databases.
4. Random Access: Data can be accessed in any order, typically used in hard drives and SSDs.
5. Buffered Access: Data is read into a buffer for faster access.
6. Streaming Access: Data is processed as it is read or written, useful for video and audio files.

Week 5: Handling Computer Files

How Are Computer Files Handled? Handling computer files includes operations like creating, opening, editing, saving, and organizing files.

Examples:

1. Creating a File: Making a new document or spreadsheet using an application like Microsoft Word or Excel.
2. Saving a File: Writing data to a disk so that it can be retrieved later.
3. Renaming a File: Changing the name of a file for easier identification.
4. Copying Files: Making a duplicate of a file for backup or sharing.
5. Deleting Files: Removing a file from storage.
6. File Extensions: Identifying the type of file based on its extension, e.g., .txt, .jpg, .pdf.

Week 6: File Insecurity

What is File Insecurity? File insecurity refers to risks such as unauthorized access, corruption, and theft that may occur if files are not properly secured.

Examples:

1. Password Protection: Using passwords to restrict access to files.
2. Encryption: Converting file data into a coded format to prevent unauthorized access.
3. Malware: Software that can infect and damage files, such as viruses and ransomware.
4. File Permissions: Setting permissions to control who can read, write, or execute files.
5. Cloud Storage Risks: Files stored on the cloud can be vulnerable to hacking if not properly protected.
6. Backup Systems: Regularly creating backups of files to prevent data loss.

Week 7: Word Processing

What is Word Processing? Word processing refers to the use of software to create, edit, format, and print text documents.

Examples:

1. Microsoft Word: A widely-used word processor for creating and formatting documents.
2. Google Docs: A cloud-based word processing application that allows for real-time collaboration.
3. Formatting Text: Changing font styles, sizes, and colors.
4. Spell Check: A tool that automatically checks and corrects spelling errors.
5. Inserting Images: Adding pictures and other visual elements into documents.
6. Saving Documents: Saving work in various formats such as DOCX or PDF for later access or sharing.

Week 8: Revision

What is Revision? This week focuses on reviewing and reinforcing all the concepts covered during the term. Students will revisit key topics to ensure they understand the core ideas.

Week 9: Examination

What is the Examination? The examination will test students’ understanding of the topics learned during the term, including practical exercises and theoretical questions.