Epping Boys' High School Website

At Epping we have developed an integrated approach to implementing the SDD syllabus and have designed our own topics and projects to make the course more interesting.

Course Description: The Preliminary course introduces students to the basic concepts of computer software design and development. It does this by looking at the different ways in which software can be developed, the tools that can be used to assist in this process, and by considering the interaction between software and the other components of the computer system. Students will learn the basics of algorithm development and programming. They will also learn the basic steps involved with managing a project. There is plenty of opportunity for students to program using a variety of programming languages including Visual Basic, Python, Liberty Basic and Pascal. Students will work through a range of short practical tasks where they will be asked to solve a number of interesting problems. They will also have to complete a larger project in both the Preliminary year and the HSC year.

Students attempting this course should have an interest in programming. Students who want to continue on to do computing science at university should consider doing this course.

Suggested Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites for this course. However, students that have undertaken the junior Computing Studies Course or Information and Software Technologies course in Years 9 and 10 will have a head start.

Flow chart

Topics covered

In Year 11 the main topics include:

Introduction to Software Development

Software Projects

Factors Affecting the Quality of Software

Other Things Developers Need to Know

Software Development Approaches

In Year 12 the main topics include:

A Look at Programming Languages
Software Development Approaches and Project Management
Planning and Designing Software Solutions
Implementing, Testing and Evaluating and Maintaining Solutions
A Software Developer's View of Hardware

Particular Course Requirements:

This course is a well-balanced course comprising approximately 50% practical experience and 50% theory. Both individual and group projects are an integral part of the course. Students should have a keen interest in problem solving. They should enjoy challenges and like working with others and sharing ideas. Students should consider doing the “Information Processing and Technology Course” as well as this course.

Course Fees: $100.00