Computer Science

Computer crime and cyber security

Skills

Legal frameworks and compliance

• I can explain the key provisions of the Computer Misuse Act and identify illegal computer activities (Y9)
• I can understand the requirements of the Data Protection Act (2018) and GDPR principles (Y9)
• I can evaluate the legal and ethical implications of different computer-related actions (Y9)
• I can distinguish between different types of computer crimes and their legal consequences (Y9)

Cyber security and threat assessment

• I can identify and analyse different types of cyber threats including malware, phishing, and social engineering (Y9)
• I can assess the motivations behind different types of computer crime and cyber attacks (Y9)
• I can evaluate the effectiveness of different security measures and protection strategies (Y9)
• I can recognise signs of malware infection and security breaches (Y9)

Password security and authentication

• I can create and manage strong, secure passwords using multiple authentication factors (Y9)
• I can explain how dictionary attacks and brute force attacks work and how to defend against them (Y9)
• I can evaluate different authentication methods including biometric and two-factor authentication (Y9)
• I can implement secure password practices across multiple accounts and platforms (Y9)

Data protection and privacy

• I can identify what constitutes personal data and understand data subject rights (Y9)
• I can explain how identity theft occurs and implement strategies to prevent it (Y9)
• I can assess privacy risks in digital communications and online activities (Y9)
• I can understand the responsibilities of data controllers and the consequences of data breaches (Y9)

Intellectual property and copyright

• I can explain copyright law principles and identify what constitutes copyright infringement (Y9)
• I can understand the duration of copyright protection for different types of creative works (Y9)
• I can recognise and avoid plagiarism in academic and professional contexts (Y9)
• I can evaluate the impact of copyright infringement on creators and society (Y9)

Digital Health and Safety

• I can identify health risks associated with computer use and implement preventive measures (Y9)
• I can understand Health and Safety regulations relating to computer workstations (Y9)
• I can assess and mitigate physical risks in computing environments (Y9)
• I can evaluate the impact of digital technology use on physical and mental wellbeing (Y9)

Knowledge

• Understand how 3D animation has revolutionised films, television, computer games, advertising, and architecture
• Recognise Blender as industry-standard software used by professionals in creative industries
• Know the fundamental principles of 3D coordinate systems and object transformation
• Understand the relationship between keyframes and interpolation in computer animation
• Recognise the importance of breaking symmetry in 3D models to create realistic representations
• Know the differences between primitive objects and complex organic shapes
• Understand the role of lighting, camera positioning, and rendering settings in final output quality
• Recognise the computational processes involved in 3D rendering and ray tracing
• Know the applications of 3D modelling in manufacturing, prototyping, and 3D printing
• Understand the creative and technical pipeline used in professional 3D animation studios
• Recognise the mathematical concepts underlying 3D transformations and animations
• Know the importance of file organisation and naming conventions in complex 3D projects
• Understand the balance between visual quality and computational efficiency in 3D graphics
• Recognise career opportunities in 3D animation, game development, and digital media production

Rationale

This unit provides learners with a comprehensive introduction to 3D animation and digital content creation, building systematically on the technical understanding and creative skills developed throughout Years 7 and 8. Drawing on the computer systems knowledge from Y8.1 Understanding Computers, learners now apply their understanding of processing power, memory management, and computational efficiency to the demanding field of 3D graphics and animation. The unit extends the digital literacy foundation established in Y7.1 Using Computers Safely, Effectively and Responsibly, while incorporating the computational thinking concepts introduced in Y8.2 Experience AI, particularly pattern recognition and problem decomposition in complex 3D modelling tasks.

The unit builds directly on the graphics and digital content creation skills that learners have developed in Y8.3 Graphics and Y8.4 HTML and Website Development, progressing from 2D design concepts to sophisticated 3D modelling and animation techniques. Learners apply the logical thinking and systematic approaches learned in Y8.6 Introduction to Python to the methodical process of 3D animation production, from initial concept through to final rendering. The emphasis on project planning, file organisation, and systematic workflow development reinforces the organisational skills introduced in Y7.2 Spreadsheet Modelling while applying them to creative digital production contexts.

The comprehensive coverage of 3D animation and modelling addresses crucial skills for creative industries while developing fundamental computational thinking capabilities. learners learn to break down complex 3D scenes into manageable components, apply mathematical transformations through intuitive interfaces, and understand the computational processes underlying photorealistic rendering. The progression from basic object manipulation through advanced organic modelling techniques provides scaffolded learning that builds confidence while introducing increasingly sophisticated concepts. The integration of keyframe animation introduces learners to time-based digital media production, developing their understanding of how computer systems manage and process sequential data.

The unit's emphasis on industry-standard software and professional workflows prepares learners for potential careers in creative industries while developing transferable skills applicable across multiple domains. The connection between 3D modelling and manufacturing through 3D printing demonstrates the practical applications of digital design skills, while the exploration of rendering technologies introduces learners to cutting-edge computational techniques including ray tracing and real-time graphics processing. learners develop appreciation for the intersection of creative vision and technical execution, understanding how artistic concepts are realised through sophisticated computational processes.

The project-based approach culminating in completed animated sequences provides authentic assessment opportunities while developing learners' ability to manage complex creative projects from conception to completion. The emphasis on planning, iterative development, and technical problem-solving reinforces the systematic approaches to project management that will be essential for the programming projects learners will encounter in Y9.3 (Re) Introduction to Python and Y9.5 Python Next Steps. The collaborative elements of animation production, including file sharing, version control, and feedback integration, prepare learners for the teamwork skills required in professional creative environments.

This unit serves as a crucial bridge between the foundational technical skills developed in earlier years and the advanced creative and programming challenges that await in the remainder of Year 9. By combining mathematical concepts, computational thinking, creative expression, and technical proficiency, learners develop a well-rounded skill set that prepares them for advanced study in computer science, digital media, and related fields while providing immediately applicable skills for creative expression and potential career pathways in the rapidly growing digital content creation industry.