📘 G.C.E. A/L – General Information Technology (GIT) Syllabus
Competency 1 — Explores the computer and its potential
1.1 Describes the computer as a system using a block diagram (02 Periods)
Contents:
- System concept; introduction to computers
- Components:
- Hardware: input/output devices, memory, storage devices (optical, magnetic, semiconductor), processor
- Software: system software (operating system, utilities), application software
- Block diagram: input, processing unit (ALU, CU), output, memory/storage; data/control flow
- Data & Information; attributes of quality information
Learning Outcomes:
- Define a system
- Identify the computer as an IPO system
- Identify a computer as a component of a larger system
- List and describe hardware components
- Classify peripherals as input/output/I-O devices
- List types of software
- Draw and label a computer block diagram
- Describe the function of each component
- Distinguish between data and information with examples
- Name and describe attributes of quality information
1.2 Identifies the specifications of personal computers (01 Period)
Contents:
- Hardware specifications: processor, memory, hard disk, motherboard, ports, chipset, display, GPU
- Software specifications: operating system, application software, utility software
Learning Outcomes:
- Select PC specifications according to requirements and affordability
- Prepare specifications for a computer and its peripherals
- Select suitable software based on user requirements (compatibility, support, licensing)
- Ensure security: antivirus, anti-malware, firewall
Competency 2 — Explores the representation of data inside a computer
2.1 Data representation and fundamental concepts (02–03 Periods)
Contents:
- Number systems: decimal, binary, hexadecimal; base, place value, weight
- Conversions: decimal to binary and binary to decimal (positive integers)
Learning Outcomes:
- Describe number systems with base, place value, weight
- Identify uses of number systems in computing (e.g., RGB, hex)
- Convert between decimal and binary
2.2 Basic Boolean operators (01 Period)
Contents:
- Boolean operators: AND, OR, NOT (up to 2 inputs)
Learning Outcomes:
- Draw truth tables for AND, OR, NOT operators
- Draw truth tables for given simple Boolean expressions
2.3 Character encoding systems (01 Period)
Contents:
- Need for encoding characters
- ASCII and Unicode
- Input in local languages using Unicode
Learning Outcomes:
- Explain the need for encoding characters
- Compare ASCII and Unicode
- Demonstrate ASCII codes with examples
- Demonstrate Unicode input in local languages
Competency 3 — Explores the Operating System and its Functions
3.1 Identifies the role of an Operating System (01 Period)
Contents:
- Definition of an Operating System (OS)
- Functions: process management, memory management, file system management, I/O control, security
- Types of OS: Single-user, multi-user, multitasking
- User interfaces: Command Line Interface (CLI) vs Graphical User Interface (GUI)
Learning Outcomes:
- Define an OS
- List the major functions of an OS
- Differentiate between CLI and GUI with examples
- Classify OS types with examples
3.2 Uses functions of an Operating System (02 Periods)
Contents:
- Basic OS operations:
- Managing files & folders (create, copy, move, delete)
- Working with drives & removable media
- Compression & decompression of files
- OS tools and utilities:
- System information
- Task manager
- Disk cleanup & defragmentation
- Customizing desktop & taskbar
- Installing/uninstalling software
- Managing user accounts & privileges
Learning Outcomes:
- Use OS tools to manage files/folders
- Perform file compression and decompression
- Use system utilities to manage system resources
- Install and uninstall software applications
- Customize desktop environment
- Manage user accounts and privileges
Competency 4 — Explores Word Processing, Spreadsheets, and Presentation Tools
4.1 Uses a Word Processor to create professional documents (04 Periods)
Contents:
- Creating and editing documents
- Formatting text, paragraphs, and pages
- Using styles and templates
- Creating tables, inserting images, charts, and objects
- Mail merge
- Proofing tools (spell check, grammar check, thesaurus)
- Page setup, headers & footers, footnotes & endnotes
- Printing options
Learning Outcomes:
- Create, edit, and format a document using a word processor
- Insert tables, images, charts, and objects
- Use proofing tools effectively
- Apply styles and templates
- Perform a mail merge
- Prepare a document for printing with proper layout
4.2 Uses Spreadsheet software for data organization and analysis (04 Periods)
Contents:
- Creating and editing spreadsheets
- Data types: numbers, text, dates
- Basic formulas and functions (SUM, AVERAGE, IF, COUNT)
- Cell references (relative, absolute, mixed)
- Sorting and filtering data
- Charts and graphs
- Conditional formatting
Learning Outcomes:
- Create and format spreadsheets
- Apply formulas and functions to solve problems
- Use relative and absolute cell references
- Organize and analyze data using sorting and filtering
- Create and customize charts and graphs
- Use conditional formatting to highlight data
4.3 Uses Presentation software to prepare presentations (02 Periods)
Contents:
- Creating and editing slides
- Slide layouts and design templates
- Inserting images, audio, video, and charts
- Slide transitions and animations
- Notes and handouts
- Presentation delivery (slide show settings, rehearsing, presenting)
Learning Outcomes:
- Create and design a presentation with slides
- Insert multimedia elements
- Apply transitions and animations
- Prepare handouts and speaker notes
- Deliver a professional presentation
Competency 5 — Explores Database Management Systems (DBMS)
5.1 Explains the concept of databases and DBMS (02 Periods)
Contents:
- Data, information, and databases
- Database approach vs traditional file processing
- Advantages of databases
- DBMS definition and examples
- Users of a DBMS (end users, database administrators, developers)
Learning Outcomes:
- Define database and DBMS
- Differentiate between database and file system
- List advantages of DBMS
- Identify types of DBMS users
5.2 Explains data models with emphasis on relational model (02 Periods)
Contents:
- Data models overview
- Relational model: tables, rows, columns
- Keys: primary key, foreign key, composite key
- Relationships: one-to-one, one-to-many, many-to-many
Learning Outcomes:
- Describe the relational model
- Identify entities, attributes, and relationships
- Explain primary and foreign keys
- Draw simple relational diagrams
5.3 Uses DBMS software to manage data (04 Periods)
Contents:
- Creating databases and tables
- Defining data types
- Entering, editing, and deleting data
- Simple queries (SELECT, WHERE, ORDER BY)
- Reports and forms
Learning Outcomes:
- Create databases and tables using DBMS
- Define fields with appropriate data types
- Insert, edit, and delete records
- Retrieve data using queries
- Generate simple reports and forms
Competency 6 — Explores Programming and Problem Solving
6.1 Understands problem-solving methods (02 Periods)
Contents:
- Problem analysis
- Algorithms: definition and characteristics
- Representations: pseudocode, flowcharts
Learning Outcomes:
- Analyze a problem to identify inputs, processes, outputs
- Write simple algorithms in pseudocode
- Draw flowcharts for given problems
6.2 Applies programming concepts using a high-level language (06 Periods)
Contents:
- Basic syntax and structure
- Variables, constants, and data types
- Operators (arithmetic, relational, logical)
- Input and output statements
- Control structures:
- Selection (IF, IF-ELSE, SWITCH)
- Iteration (FOR, WHILE, DO-WHILE)
- Arrays and strings (basic operations)
Learning Outcomes:
- Write simple programs using variables and operators
- Implement input and output statements
- Apply selection and iteration structures
- Use arrays and strings in problem-solving
- Test and debug simple programs
6.3 Develops simple programs to solve problems (04 Periods)
Contents:
- Problem-solving with algorithms
- Converting algorithms into programs
- Testing and debugging
- Documenting programs
Learning Outcomes:
- Develop complete programs for given problems
- Use structured programming practices
- Test and correct errors in programs
- Prepare documentation for programs
Competency 7 — Explores Data Communication and Computer Networks
7.1 Explains fundamentals of data communication (02 Periods)
Contents:
- Components of data communication: sender, receiver, medium, message, protocol
- Characteristics: speed, accuracy, cost, security
- Modes of transmission: simplex, half-duplex, full-duplex
- Transmission media: guided (twisted pair, coaxial, fiber optic), unguided (radio, microwave, infrared, satellite)
Learning Outcomes:
- Identify components of data communication
- Describe modes of transmission
- List advantages and disadvantages of media
7.2 Explains computer networking concepts (03 Periods)
Contents:
- Definition of a computer network
- Network types: LAN, MAN, WAN, PAN
- Network topologies: bus, star, ring, mesh, hybrid
- Network devices: hub, switch, router, modem, access point
- Client-server vs peer-to-peer
Learning Outcomes:
- Define and classify computer networks
- Differentiate network types
- Describe common network topologies
- Identify functions of networking devices
- Differentiate client-server and peer-to-peer models
7.3 Uses Internet and web technologies effectively (04 Periods)
Contents:
- Internet services: email, search engines, video conferencing, e-commerce, e-banking, e-learning, social networking
- IP addresses, domain names, URLs
- Cloud computing
- Cybersecurity: threats, safe practices, antivirus, firewalls
Learning Outcomes:
- Use email and search engines efficiently
- Identify applications of Internet services
- Explain IP addresses, domain names, and URLs
- Define cloud computing with examples
- Apply cybersecurity practices
Competency 8 — Explores ICT in Society and Emerging Trends
8.1 Identifies the role of ICT in society (02 Periods)
Contents:
- ICT in education, business, industry, health, government, agriculture
- Impact of ICT on communication, lifestyle, globalization
Learning Outcomes:
- Discuss the role of ICT in various sectors
- Identify social impacts of ICT
- Explain ICT’s contribution to globalization
8.2 Explores ethical, legal, and environmental issues in ICT (02 Periods)
Contents:
- Ethical issues: privacy, data protection, computer crimes
- Legal aspects: intellectual property rights, software licensing, cyber laws
- Environmental issues: e-waste, green computing
Learning Outcomes:
- Identify ethical issues in ICT
- Explain intellectual property rights and licensing
- Describe computer-related laws
- Discuss environmental concerns in ICT
8.3 Explores emerging trends in ICT (03 Periods)
Contents:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- Big Data and Analytics
- Blockchain
- Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)
- Mobile and wireless technologies
Learning Outcomes:
- Describe emerging ICT trends
- Discuss applications of AI, IoT, Big Data
- Identify future directions of ICT