Subsidiary ICT
Subsidiary ICT
SYLLABUS
SUBSIDIARY ICT
SYLLABUS
INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY SYLLABUS
ISBN: 978-9970-675-30-2
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FOREWORD .......................................................................................................................................... v
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ....................................................................................................................... vi
1.0 INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................................. 1
1.1 Changes in the Curriculum ............................................................................................................ 1
1.2 Classroom-Based Assessment....................................................................................................... 1
1.3 Learners with Special Educational Needs ..................................................................................... 2
1.4 Generic Skills ................................................................................................................................. 3
1.5 Cross-Cutting Issues ...................................................................................................................... 4
1.6 Values ............................................................................................................................................ 4
1.7 ICT Integration .............................................................................................................................. 5
1.8 Projects ......................................................................................................................................... 6
1.9 The Aims of Secondary Education................................................................................................. 6
1.10 Aims of the Advanced Level Curriculum ..................................................................................... 7
1.11 Rationale for Teaching Subsidiary ICT at Advanced Level .......................................................... 7
1.12 Subject Overview ........................................................................................................................ 7
1.13 Time Allocation ........................................................................................................................... 8
1.14 Suggested Approaches to Teaching Subsidiary ICT .................................................................... 8
1.15 Programme Planner .................................................................................................................... 9
1.16 Note to Users ............................................................................................................................ 10
2.0 DETAILED SYLLABUS ..................................................................................................................... 12
Senior Five Term 1 .............................................................................................................................. 12
Topic 1: Introduction to ICTs ..................................................................................................... 12
Topic 2: Electronic Presentation ................................................................................................ 14
Senor Five Term 2 ............................................................................................................................... 16
Topic 3: Computer Hardware ................................................................................................ 16
Topic 4: Computer Software ..................................................................................................... 18
Senior Five Term 3 .............................................................................................................................. 21
TOPIC 5: Electronic Word Processing ........................................................................................ 21
Topic 6: Electronic Spreadsheet ............................................................................................... 24
Senior Six Term 1 ................................................................................................................................ 26
Topic 7: The Internet and Digital Communications ..................................................................... 26
Topic 8: Electronic Publication ................................................................................................. 30
Senior Six Term 2 ................................................................................................................................ 32
Topic 9: Electronic Databases ................................................................................................... 32
Senior Six Term 3 ................................................................................................................................ 34
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FOREWORD
The Ministry of Education and Sports, through the National Curriculum Development Centre
(NCDC), aligned the Advanced Level Curriculum with the competency-based Lower Secondary
Curriculum (LSC) to ensure a smooth learner transition from lower secondary to advanced level.
The two-year aligned Advanced Secondary Curriculum adopted learner-centered approaches,
inquiry-based, and discovery methods. The learning outcomes give the learner hands-on
experiences in real-life situations while being cognizant of different learner abilities and learning
styles. The syllabus focuses on assessment for learning with emphasis on criterion-referenced
assessment. It further provides learners with the opportunity to enhance the 21st-century skills
and values that were acquired at the lower secondary level.
This Subsidiary Information and Communications Technology (ICT) syllabus focuses on the
practical application of technological knowledge and skills, empowering learners to tackle real-
world challenges in their communities. It emphasises effective communication, data
management, ethical technology use, and emerging technologies, nurturing innovation and
adaptability in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Furthermore, the syllabus promotes the development of higher order thinking skills, including
enquiry, creativity, innovation, decision-making, critical thinking, and problem-solving. It
advocates for learner-centred pedagogies that provide hands-on experience while
accommodating diverse abilities and learning styles.
As the Minister responsible for Education, I endorse this syllabus as the official document for
teaching and learning Subsidiary ICT at the Advanced Level of secondary education in Uganda.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC) is indebted to the Government of
Uganda for financing the alignment of the Advanced Level Curriculum to Lower Secondary
Education in Uganda.
Our gratitude goes to the Ministry of Education and Sports for overseeing the adaptation of the
curriculum, the Curriculum Task Force of the Ministry of Education and Sports for the oversight
role and making timely decisions whenever necessary, and members of the public who made
helpful contributions towards shaping this curriculum.
NCDC is also grateful to Members of Parliament, schools, universities, and other tertiary
institutions, the writing panels, and professional bodies, for their input in the design and
development of the Adapted A level curriculum. To all those who worked behind the scenes to
finalise the adaptation process of this teaching syllabus, your efforts are invaluable.
NCDC takes responsibility for any shortcomings that might be identified in this publication and
welcomes suggestions for effectively addressing the inadequacies. Such comments and
suggestions may be communicated to NCDC through P. O Box 7002, Kampala, or Email:
[email protected] or on the Website: www.ncdc.go.ug
Dr Grace K. Baguma
Director
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
The Advanced Secondary Curriculum has been aligned with the Lower Secondary competency-
based model for ease of progression of learners from the Lower to Advanced Secondary Level.
The alignment is a result of the analysis of the Advanced Level Curriculum published in 2013, to
determine whether the content is:
i) appropriate.
ii) high-pitched or overloaded.
iii) covered at lower secondary.
iv) obsolete.
v) repeated in different topics and redundant.
The results from the curriculum analysis revealed that there were overlaps of concepts with
what was covered at the Lower Secondary, as well as concepts within different topics of the
same subject. In addition, a number of syllabuses had content that is no longer necessary for
today’s contemporary society and the 21st century.
1.1 Changes in the Curriculum
The alignment of the A-Level Curriculum to that of the Lower Secondary led to changes in the
pedagogies of learning from a knowledge- and objective-based, to an integrated and learner-
centred competency-based approach. The adapted syllabus, therefore, is a result of
rationalising, integrating, and merging content with overlaps and similar skills, dropping topics
that had been studied at Lower Secondary, or are no longer critical and relevant for the current
learning needs, while upgrading those that were of low competencies to match with the
advanced level. The programme planner details the learning progression derived from the
learning outcomes. The detailed syllabus section unfolds the learning experiences with
corresponding assessment strategies.
This Subsidiary ICT syllabus is part of the Advanced Secondary Curriculum. The teacher is
encouraged to read the whole syllabus before planning your teaching programme, since many
topics have been merged, upgraded, or removed. While aligning this syllabus, efforts were
made to ensure a smooth progression of concepts from the Lower Secondary Level, adapting
topics and content with familiar features that are of value to the learner and society. In addition,
the process of developing this syllabus document removed what was considered obsolete, high
pitched as well as content overlaps and overloads.
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Formative assessment in Subsidiary ICT prioritises knowledge and skills acquisition through
active participation in learning activities. These activities are directly linked to the learning
outcomes and demonstrate that learning has occurred through application and mastery of the
desired skills.
Sample assessment strategies are included to assist the teacher, offering a foundation for
classroom-based assessment. Teachers are encouraged to develop additional assessment
strategies that align with the same principles of observations, dialogue, and product evaluation
to measure knowledge, understanding, skills, values, and attitudes. (Refer to the detailed
syllabus for further guidance.)
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prepare them for lifelong learning. These skills equip learners with the ability to adapt to change
and navigate life’s challenges in the 21st century.
The key generic skills include:
Communication
i) Listening attentively and with comprehension
ii) Talk
iii) Reading accurately and fluently
iv) Writing and presenting information coherently
v) Using a range of media to communicate ideas
Mathematical Computation
i) Using numbers and measurements accurately
ii) Interpreting and interrogating mathematical data
iii) Using mathematics to justify and support decisions
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i) Environmental awareness
ii) Health awareness
iii) Life skills
iv) Mixed abilities and involvement
v) Socio-economic challenges
vi) Citizenship and patriotism
These topics are relevant to all areas of study and are embedded in various learning outcomes
to ensure holistic education and global awareness.
1.6 Values
The curriculum is underpinned by a clear set of values that guide its implementation and the
work of schools. These values, based on the Uganda National Ethics and Values Policy of 2013,
are:
These values are not directly taught or assessed through examinations but are integrated into
learning outcomes and are developed throughout the learner’s education journey.
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1.8 Projects
Projects and project-based learning are integral to 21st-century education. In this syllabus,
learners will undertake practical projects that align with the subject's focus on technology
application and problem-solving. These projects promote hands-on learning, critical thinking,
and the development of ICT skills. Teachers are encouraged to guide learners in selecting
projects that connect to their local environment and real-world challenges.
i) instil and promote national unity, an understanding of the social and civic
responsibilities, strong love and care for others, and respect for public property, as
well as an appreciation of international relations and beneficial international co-
operation,
ii) promote an appreciation and understanding of the cultural heritage of Uganda,
including its languages,
iii) impart and promote a sense of self-discipline, ethical and spiritual values, personal
and collective responsibility, and initiative,
iv) enable individuals to acquire and develop knowledge and an understanding of
emerging needs of society and the economy,
v) provide up-to-date and comprehensive knowledge in theoretical and practical
aspects of innovative production, modern management methods in the field of
commerce and industry, and their application in the context of the socio-economic
development of Uganda,
vi) enable individuals to develop basic scientific, technological, technical, agricultural,
and commercial skills required for self-employment,
vii) enable individuals to develop personal skills of problem solving, information
gathering and interpretation, independent reading and writing, and self-
improvement through learning and development of social, physical, and leadership
skills such as those obtained through games, sports, societies, and clubs,
viii) lay the foundation for further education,
ix) enable the individual to apply acquired skills in solving problems of community and
to develop a strong sense of constructive and beneficial belonging to that
community,
x) instil positive attitudes towards productive work and strong respect for the dignity of
labour and those who engage in productive labour activities,
xi) develop a positive attitude towards learning as a lifelong process.
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iv) address real-world challenges through dynamic digital storytelling and content
creation.
3. Cybersecurity and Ethical Computing
The learner should:
i) understand cybersecurity principles, including data protection, threat management,
and safe digital practices,
ii) demonstrate ethical behaviour in ICT usage, respecting privacy, intellectual property,
and responsible computing,
iii) develop strategies to identify and mitigate cyber threats, promoting online safety for
local and global contexts.
4. Data Management and Computational Thinking
The learner should:
ii) Experiential Learning: The learner engages in hands-on ICT projects, such as building
databases or creating presentations. Reflecting on these experiences, the learner deepens
his or her understanding, fostering the development of technical skills and reflective
thinking.
iii) Problem and Project-Based Learning: The learner addresses real-world ICT challenges by
working on projects that require applying knowledge in practical contexts. This approach
enhances critical thinking, teamwork, and research skills as one designs solutions and
presents findings.
iv) Case-Based Learning: The learner analyses real-world ICT scenarios, such as cybersecurity
threats or emerging technologies, to develop critical thinking and analytical skills. Applying
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theoretical knowledge to practical situations, the learner deepens his or her understanding
of ICT applications.
v) Discovery Learning: The learner constructs his or her understanding of ICT concepts
through active exploration and inquiry. By experimenting with software, hardware, and
emerging technologies, one develops problem-solving skills and can hypothesise and test
solutions independently.
These approaches align with UNESCO's ICT Competency Framework for Teachers,
emphasising integrating technology in education to enhance learning outcomes.
Implementing these methods can create a dynamic and engaging learning environment that
equips learners with the necessary skills to navigate the evolving field of ICT.
4.2 18
Software Installation and
Configuration
4.3 10
Software Troubleshooting
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The syllabus details for all subjects are set out in three columns:
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with some of these as: k, u, s, enable learners to Teachers can also devise
gs, and v/a for emphasis to Discover, Explain, Apply other means of
the teacher on what to and Analyse (DEAA) as assessments that are in line
consider during the lesson. they participate in with the activities.
knowledge construction.
Teachers should prepare their lesson plans in line with the Learning Outcomes using the
Suggested Learning Activities as a guide. These are not the only possible learning activities;
therefore, teachers are encouraged to extend these and devise their own activities that are
appropriate to their classroom situation.
In addition, teachers should adapt these activities to suit the different special educational needs
of their learners.
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Competency: The learner operates a variety of ICTs to perform tasks in day-to-day life.
Learning Suggested Teaching and Learning Sample Assessment Strategies
Outcomes Activities
The learner
should be able
to:
a) explore the a) In pairs, learners identify and a) Observe pair interactions to assess
utilisation of discuss how ICT tools are used in collaboration and engagement in
various ICT different fields. the discussion focusing on the use
tools in day- b) Learners make plenary of ICT in different fields.
to-day life. presentations by role-playing how b) Observe as learners tour the
(k, u, a, gs) ICTs are used in those fields. school, identifying ICT tools. Note
c) Learners take a tour around the interactions with ICT tools and
school to explore how ICT tools are peers—accuracy in identifying
used within the school system. (For tools, participation, and teamwork.
learners with visual and hearing c) Converse with learners about the
impairment, an audio-visual tour suitability, limitations, and
with captions should be recorded to alternatives of ICT tools, asking
supplement this activity) probing questions to clarify
misconceptions.
d) Assess learners’ presentations and
written work for clarity, coherence
and critical evaluation of ICT tools
and their application.
(Recognise the efforts of learners with
disabilities for inclusion purposes)
b) use digital a) In groups, learners collaborate to a) Observe learners as they identify,
tools to explore how different ICT explain, and connect ICT
solve day- components can be connected to components, focusing on accuracy
to-day life form a working system. and teamwork.
challenges. b) In small groups, learners research b) Engage learners in a dialogue
(k, s, v, gs) and create a detailed flowchart about the steps of the booting
that explains the booting process process, using probing questions
in various operating systems (e.g., to assess their depth of
Windows, MacOS, Linux). understanding.
c) In groups, learners present their c) Assess learners' flowcharts and
flowchart, explaining the process group presentations for clarity,
to the class using a multimedia accuracy, and logical reasoning in
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Competency: The learner creates and delivers visually appealing and interactive electronic
presentations to communicate ideas effectively.
Learning Suggested Teaching and Learning Sample Assessment Strategies
Outcomes Activities
The learner
should be able
to:
a) create a) Learners conduct research in groups a) Converse with learners as they
electronic to compare different presentation research, focusing on the
presentation software (e.g., PowerPoint, Google uniqueness of different software
Slides, Canva, Prezi).
s and use tools.
b) In groups, learners explore various
them to template designs and layouts b) Observe learners explore various
communica provided by the identified template designs and layouts
te ideas. (k, presentation software. They select focussing on their ability to work
u, s, a) which layouts are most effective for in groups.
presenting specific types of content c) Observe learners as they make
(e.g., graphs for data and images for presentations about the choice of
storytelling).
the layouts focusing on their
c) In groups, learners create a
presentation on a predetermined ability to speak confidently and
topic, applying the template designs explain ideas.
and layouts they selected earlier. d) Converse with the learners as
d) In groups, learners demonstrate a they create a presentation on a
presentation with a strict time limit predetermined topic, focusing on
(e.g.,30–40 minutes), focusing on the number of slides, slide titles,
applying suitable templates and
etc.
layouts efficiently.
e) In pairs, learners work together to e) Assess the learner's presentation,
customise the theme of their focusing on both the content
presentation, adjusting elements like and the visual appeal. Ensure that
background colours, fonts, and slide the slides are clear and engaging
layouts to ensure visual consistency and effectively communicate the
and alignment with the chosen
key ideas.
topic.
f) Learners present their work using the
appropriate features of the
presentation software, like speaker
notes, slideshow mode, and other
interactive tools (e.g., animations,
transitions). They practise public
speaking skills and use these tools to
support and enhance their delivery.
b) format a) Learners create individual slides a) Observe learners as they design
presentation within a group project, applying text and enhance slides, focusing on
s to make formatting, bullet points, word art, the application of formatting,
and smart art to enhance visual
them multimedia, and design
appeal.
visually
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Competency: The learner performs routine service on computer hardware to ensure its optimal
functionality and performance.
Learning Outcomes Suggested Teaching and Sample Assessment Strategies
The learner should be Learning Activities
able to:
a) classify hardware a) In small groups, learners a) Observe learners as they
components, identify and label various identify and label hardware
explaining their hardware components. components in small group
functions. (k, u, a) (For learners with visual and activities, noting collaboration.
hearing impairment, an audio-
b) Converse with the learners as
visual video clip with captions
they identify the different
should be availed for full
hardware components
participation)
focusing on the accuracy of
b) In a think-pair-share session,
the names of the components,
learners reflect on the
their importances and
importance of each hardware
classifications.
tool and their contribution to
the overall functionality of a c) Assess group reports and
computer. presentations on dual-function
c) Learners work in groups to devices focusing on
classify hardware devices, circumstances under which it
including input devices, can be used as an input device
output devices, storage and output device.
devices, communication (Recognise the efforts of learners
devices, and processing tools. with disabilities for inclusion
d) Learners engage in a fun and purposes)
interactive game, either using
physical flashcards or an online
tool, to match hardware
device names with their
categories (input, output,
storage, etc.) and functions.
e) In groups, learners explore
modern devices (e.g.,
touchscreens) that can
function as both input and
output devices and report
their findings to the class.
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Competency: The learner installs and maintains computer software to ensure optimal
functionality and performance.
Learning Suggested Teaching and Learning Activities Sample Assessment
Outcomes Strategies
The learner should
be able to:
a) evaluate a) In pairs or small groups, learners explore a) Observe learners as they
software options the different software on their devices. They classify software types
based on user also describe the primary purpose of each and engage in role-
software type in managing or enhancing playing activities,
requirements
computer functionality. focusing on accuracy,
and system b) In small groups, learners analyse user clarity of explanations.
capabilities. (k, s, requirements (e.g., for a business, school, or b) Observe the learners as
a, gs) personal use), and compare different they present, focusing
software options, considering system on their ability to use a
capabilities. Each group presents their range of media to
recommendations and explains their communicate ideas.
reasoning behind the choices. c) Converse with learners
c) In a lab environment, learners collaborate during discussions and
to explore and utilise multiple software debates about the
applications (e.g., antivirus programs, office software options and
suites, or system optimisers). They assess their suitability for
the performance, user interface, and specific user needs,
compatibility with the provided hardware assessing their ability to
and system. justify choices based on
d) Learners role play as either clients or IT system capabilities.
consultants. The client team presents d) Assess learners' case
requirements for software solutions (e.g., study analyses,
document management systems, customer recommendations, and
relationship management tools, or system group presentations for
maintenance). The consultant conducts an logical reasoning, clear
analysis, and recommends appropriate communication, and a
software or system solutions. The deep understanding of
consultant team must clearly explain how software functionality
their recommendations align with the and its alignment with
client’s specific needs and the technical user requirements.
capabilities of the proposed solutions.
e) Learners discuss which type of software
(system, application, or utility) is most
critical for various scenarios, such as
managing a business, maintaining a
personal computer, or running a school
system.
( Assistive software for disability awareness could
be discussed to support inclusion)
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Competency: The learner creates professional Word documents for effective communication.
Learning Outcomes Suggested Teaching and Learning Sample Assessment
The learner should be Activities Strategies
able to:
a) format and edit a a) Learners explore different word a) Observe learners as they
Word document. (k, processing software (e.g., Microsoft explore and create
u, s, gs) Word, Google Docs, LibreOffice documents, focusing on
Writer), and practise opening and
their ability to navigate
creating a new document.
b) In groups, learners analyse key software tools, apply
features such as menus, toolbars, layout features, and use
and document templates. formatting options
c) In small groups, learners create a effectively.
document by arranging elements b) Engage learners in
such as margins, page orientation, discussions about the
and spacing.
document creation and
d) Learners collaborate to edit and
review a document, utilising a range editing process, assessing
of tools and features available in their understanding of
word processing software. the features they use and
e) Learners collaborate online to apply how they enhance
various formatting tools in a Word document presentation.
document, including font styles, c) Assess Word documents
paragraph alignment, page setup,
for proper use of
and heading styles, to enhance the
document's presentation. formatting tools, content
f) In small groups, learners practise organisation, integration
importing external data such as of external elements, and
tables from Excel, or images from overall presentation
the web into a document. quality. Additionally,
g) Learners work in small groups to
evaluate their ability to
adjust the size and format of
imported elements, ensuring they provide constructive
integrate smoothly with the feedback on peer
document layout. documents.
h) Learners collaborate in small groups d) Observe learners as they
to practise saving documents in format imported
different formats (e.g., .docx, .pdf) and focusing on their ability
exporting them for printing or
to try out innovative
sharing.
i) Learners collaborate in groups, alternatives.
exchanging documents with peers
for review and providing constructive
feedback on formatting, layout, and
content organisation.
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Competency: The learner organises, manipulates, and visualises data to draw insights for data-
driven decision-making.
Learning Suggested Teaching and Learning Sample Assessment Strategies
Outcomes Activities
The learner should
be able to:
a) collect and a) In groups, learners explore a) Observe learners as they
organise data. spreadsheet programs (e.g., organise data in a worksheet
(k, u, s) Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets) by entering information,
and analyse their essential
formatting cells (e.g., text size,
functions.
b) In groups, learners create a new colours, borders), sorting data,
worksheet, navigate through cells, and adjusting column widths.
rows, and columns, and enter b) Engage learners in a discussion
data. to assess their understanding
c) In pairs, learners create a simple of the process and the
budget worksheet. They enter reasoning behind their
data (e.g., expenses and income)
choices. Ask them to explain
and apply formatting for better
readability. why they chose specific
d) In small groups, learners practise formatting options (e.g., font
sorting based on different criteria size, colour schemes, cell
(e.g., alphabetical, numerical, styles).
date) on a dataset. c) Assess the worksheet to
e) In groups, learners use filters to ensure data is accurate, well-
display only relevant data based
organized, professionally
on specified conditions (e.g.,
filtering by date range or formatted with consistent
category). fonts, readable text, and
f) In pairs, learners choose a given optimized for printing with
subject area in their combination proper margins, headers, and
and collect relevant data (e.g., footers.
survey results, measurements, or
statistics) and organise it in
spreadsheet software.
g) In pairs, learners choose a subject
area from their course
combination, collect relevant data
using online tools (e.g. Google
Forms, etc), and organise it in
spreadsheet software.
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c) create visual a) Learners explore the different a) Observe how learners use chart
objects (charts, visualisation objects available in formatting tools to enhance
graphs) to spreadsheet software (e.g., bar data communication, focusing
charts, line graphs, maps, pie on their ability to choose the
present data. (s,
charts). correct chart type for the data,
v, gs) b) Learners present different forms of customise the chart for
data using appropriate visualisation readability and clarity, and
objects. ensure the chart aligns with the
c) Learners collaboratively customise intended analysis.
the chart by modifying elements b) Conduct a discussion with
such as the title, axis labels, learners to understand their
legends, data labels, and colours to reasoning behind the chart
improve clarity and presentation. creation and customisation
d) Learners create a combo chart (e.g., choices.
a bar and line chart together) to c) Evaluate the chart’s visual
compare two different data types clarity, accuracy, and
in one visualisation. effectiveness in communicating
e) Learners collaborate online to the intended message,
analyse and visualise a dataset (e.g., ensuring that the chart helps to
customer feedback, survey results) analyse the data and provides
using appropriate spreadsheet clear insights for the intended
tools. audience.
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Competency: The learner utilises the internet and digital communication tools to ethically
access and exchange information.
Learning Suggested Teaching and Sample Assessment Strategies
Outcomes Learning Activities
The learner should
be able to:
a) share a) Learners connect two devices a) Observe learners as they connect
electronic data via Bluetooth, USB, etc., and devices and transfer files, noting
across devices transfer files. They discuss the their ability to identify and
using various steps taken, potential troubleshoot common challenges.
methods. (u, s, challenges, and how to ensure b) Observe learners' ability to take
v, a, gs) data security during the transfer. responsibility for their own
b) Learners remotely collaborate learning.
and share data using different c) Engage in discussions with
methods, including screen learners about the methods used
mirroring, remote desktop for data sharing, prompting them
access, and collaborative tools to explain each method's
like AnyDesk and TeamViewer. advantages, limitations, and
c) In groups, learners identify and potential risks, such as Bluetooth,
implement the best data sharing USB, and remote access tools.
methods. d) Assess the effectiveness of learners’
d) Learners role-play as IT data-sharing solutions, focusing on
specialists who must guide how well they apply appropriate
"clients" on sharing data methods for the given scenario
between devices. (e.g., sharing large files, limited
internet access) and the clarity of
their step-by-step instructions for
clients.
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Competency: The learner creates and manages electronic databases to ensure efficient data
organisation, storage, and retrieval.
Learning Outcomes Suggested Teaching and Learning Sample Assessment Strategies
The learner should Activities
be able to:
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INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY SYLLABUS
Competency: The learner uses Artificial Intelligence to create content and provide solutions to
societal challenges.
Learning Outcomes Suggested Teaching and Learning Sample Assessment
The learner should be Activities Strategies
able to:
a) evaluate the a) Learners investigate and present real- a) Assess learners’
application of AI life AI applications, focusing on areas understanding of AI
in the real world. such as machine learning, natural concepts, ethical
(u, s, v, gs) language processing (NLP), and implications, and real-
computer vision. world applications
b) Learners interact with AI-driven tools, through discussions
such as chatbots and facial recognition and activities, noting
applications and identify the their ability to analyse
underlying AI technologies. AI technologies such as
c) Organise a debate on the ethical machine learning, NLP,
implications of AI in specific contexts, and computer vision.
such as surveillance or hiring b) Engage learners in
algorithms. group discussions,
d) Learners identify the AI concepts focusing on their ability
applied, benefits achieved, and to evaluate AI’s ethical
challenges encountered in case studies considerations,
of organisations implementing AI potential risks, and
technologies. improvements,
e) Learners roleplay as AI developers, ensuring they can
users, or critics. They discuss a scenario critically assess AI's
(e.g., deploying AI in healthcare) and impact in various
evaluate its applications, benefits, sectors.
limitations, and ethical considerations. c) Evaluate learners’ group
f) Learners propose hypothetical AI projects, such as AI
applications addressing specific application proposals
problems, like language barriers or and ethical guidelines,
object detection. They should explain for clarity, feasibility,
the AI concepts involved, anticipated and ethical awareness,
benefits, and potential ethical ensuring their solutions
challenges. reflect a strong grasp of
g) Learners engage with AI simulation AI’s benefits and
tools such as TensorFlow Playground or challenges.
AI-based games to visualise machine
learning concepts and demonstrate
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INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY SYLLABUS
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INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY SYLLABUS
3.0 ASSESSMENT
3.0 ASSESSMENT
3.1 Assessing Subsidiary ICT
The adapted curriculum sets new expectations for learning, shifting from Objectives to Learning
Outcomes that focus mainly on the application of knowledge and deeper learning that leads to
the acquisition of skills. These Learning Outcomes require a different approach to assessment.
The Learning Outcomes in the syllabi are set out in terms of Knowledge, Understanding, Skills,
Values, and Attitudes. We refer to this by the letters k, u, s, v & a.
It is not possible to assess attitudes in the same way as knowledge, understanding, and skills.
This is because they are more personal and are variable and are long-term aspirations. This does
not mean that values and attitudes are not important or cannot be assessed. They, too, can be
assessed, but not easily through tests and examinations. Values and attitudes can be assessed
over a period through observing and having interactions with the learner.
This section focuses on knowledge, understanding, and skills, each with its own implications for
learning and assessment.
To assess knowledge and its application, understanding and skills, we need to look for different
things. Knowledge can be assessed to some extent through written tests, but the assessment
of skills, application of what is learnt, and deeper understanding requires different approaches.
Because of this, the role of the teacher in assessment becomes much more important.
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ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
When
When all
all three
three are
are used,
used, the
the information
information from
from anyone
anyone can
can be
be checked
checked against
against the
the other
other two
two
forms of assessment opportunity (e.g. evidence from “observation” can be checked
forms of assessment opportunity (e.g. evidence from “observation” can be checked againstagainst
evidence
evidence from
from “conversation”
“conversation” and
and “product”).
“product”).
When all three are used, the information from anyone can be checked against the other two
forms of assessment opportunity (e.g. evidence from “observation” can be checked against
evidence from “conversation” and “product”).
This
This is
is often
often referred
referred to
to as
as “triangulation
“triangulation
Observation
This is often referred to as “triangulation
Triangulation
Product Conversation
3.3
3.3 Assessing
Assessing Generic
Generic Skills
Skills
Generic
Generic Skills
Skills have
have been
been built
built into
into the
the syllabuses
syllabuses and
and are
are part
part ofof the
the Learning
Learning Outcomes.
Outcomes.
3.3 Assessing
Therefore, Generic Skills
Therefore, it is not necessary to assess them separately. The increasingly complex context of
it is not necessary to assess them separately. The increasingly complex context of the
the
subject
subject content provides progression in the Generic Skills, and so they are assessed as
as part of
part
Generic content provides
Skills have been progression
built into the in the Genericand
syllabuses Skills,
areandpartso of
they
theareLearning
assessedOutcomes. of
the
the subject
subject Learning Outcomes. Assessing generic skills is done with the help of an
an
Therefore, it isLearning Outcomes.
not necessary to assessAssessing genericThe
them separately. skills is done complex
increasingly with thecontext
help of
of the
observation
observation checklist
checklist and
and scoring rubric.
scoring rubric.
subject content provides progression in the Generic Skills, and so they are assessed as part of
the subject Learning Outcomes. Assessing generic skills is done with the help of an
3.4
3.4 Assessing
observation
Assessing Values/Attitudes
checklist and scoring rubric.
Values/Attitudes
It
It is
is not
not possible
possible toto assess
assess values
values and
and attitudes
attitudes in
in the
the same
same way
way as
as knowledge,
knowledge, understanding
understanding
3.4
and Assessing Values/Attitudes
and skills because they are more personal and variable and are long-term aspirations. This
skills because they are more personal and variable and are long-term aspirations. This does
does
not
not mean
mean that attitudes
that attitudes are not important. It means we must value things we cannot easily
It is not possible to assessare not and
values important. It means
attitudes we must
in the same way value things weunderstanding
as knowledge, cannot easily
assess
assess through
through tests
tests and examinations. However, observation and interaction can evaluate
and skills because theyand
are examinations.
more personalHowever, observation
and variable and interaction
and are long-term canThis
aspirations. evaluate
does
values
values and
and attitudes
attitudes over
over a
a long
long period.
period.
not mean that attitudes are not important. It means we must value things we cannot easily
assess through tests and examinations. However, observation and interaction can evaluate
values and attitudes over a long period.
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INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY SYLLABUS
3.6 Examinations
There will be only one school-based summative assessment at the end of the year.
Examinations or tests will no longer be set at the beginning and end of every term. Instead,
there will be a summation of ongoing teacher assessments made in the context of learning
through end-of-topic scenario-based tasks (Activities of Integration). The learners will also be
subjected to the end-of-cycle assessment for certification.
3.7 Record keeping
Accurate and comprehensive record-keeping is crucial to track learners' progress and
achievements in competency-based learning. Therefore, the teacher and school must record
learners' achievements accurately.
Various assessment tools and strategies are employed to capture learners' demonstration of
abilities and achievements, including observation checklists, rubrics, and scoring grids. These
tools provide a holistic picture of learners' strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.
The data and evidence collected from these assessments are correctly recorded and maintained
in learners' files, portfolios, and anecdotal notes.
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CONTACT US:
National Curriculum Development Centre
Plot M838, Kyambogo.
P.O.Box 7002 Kampala, Uganda
+256-393-112-088
www.ncdc.go.ug