Course description:

The course will build on the basics taught in Key Stage 3 and will cover PCB's , timers, alarm circuits, etc.

Those who are considering taking this course should be interested in electronics and building control systems. A keen interest in the theory of electronics will be an advantage.

During this course you will be involved in :

Problem Solving.

Designing and Building Circuits – We will be designing circuits that use 555 Timer Chips and 741 OP amps, as well as discrete components such as LDR's (ORP 12) as light sensors and disc thermisters as temperature sensors, both important input devices.

The use of computer simulation – this has developed to the extent where every pupil on the course can have computer stimulation at home. We have full student use of crocodile clips for designing circuits and PCB Wizard for tracking them.

You will build prototypes and test them – in Year 10 you will build prototypes of all circuits previously mentioned and box them in by vacuum forming.

The assessment will consist of 60% coursework and 40% final examination.

The course will be very interesting, especially for those students interested in micro-technology and electrical engineering. It is an excellent course for those who enjoy a more theoretical approach to technology and a good grounding for those wishing to study electrical engineering or a degree in electronics later on.

For more information on choices and options at 14, 16 and beyond (including career matching software), visit our Careers page.