About National Curriculum Levels

NC Level descriptors

The NC level descriptors for ICT vary considerably in the functionality that they encompass. For example, the following is fairly limited:

5.6 They explore the effects of changing the variables in an ICT-based model.

Other descriptors, however, have a much broader remit. For example,

5.3 They use ICT to structure, refine and present information in different forms and styles for specific purposes and audiences.

Given this variation in functionality, it can be quite challenging to ensure complete coverage of a level descriptor when assessing the work that students produce in a class room environment. It is not uncommon therefore, to see colleagues assigning partial coverage of a descriptor for a given activity. For example, for the following descriptor:

4.7 They plan and test sequences of instructions.

Students might be awarded, They .. test sequences of instructions, when working with a flowchart exercise where appropriate planning has been absent from the exercise.

Level descriptors for exercises on the site

The majority of exercises on this site do not provide complete coverage for particular level descriptors. This is because ICT is a predominantly a practical subject with a focus on the use of ICT tools, whereas the site exercises are designed to be reflective and supportive of class room activities.

Each exercise on the site has been linked to an appropriate level descriptor. Within the descriptor for each exercise, we have indicated the actual coverage in red. Colleagues will need to ensure that the parts that are not covered by the exercise are covered by class-based activities.

Level descriptors for programming exercises

A number of programming exercises have been given two levels. The first set of levels is supported by the exercises in question. The second set of levels is supported by the optional practical activities that are provided at the end of the exercises. For example, the exercise, Conditional Statements - 1, is assigned a level 5. However, if students complete the related Quiz program activity, then they will merit a level 6 for the exercise.

The NC levels for the site exercises can be found by clicking here.