Ireland · NCCA Curriculum Specifications
6th Year Information Technology.
This Information Technology course for the Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA) equips students with practical digital skills essential for the modern workplace and daily life. Students will develop core competencies in word processing, data management, digital communication, and multimedia design.
01Digital Communication and the Internet
Students explore safe web browsing, professional email etiquette, and the use of cloud-based collaboration tools.
Students explore safe browsing practices and learn to evaluate the reliability of online information. They will identify secure websites and understand basic web protocols.
This topic covers the professional use of email, including etiquette, attachments, and managing an inbox. Students will draft emails suitable for workplace scenarios.
Students investigate cloud-based tools used for teamwork and document sharing. They will practice co-editing documents and communicating via digital platforms.
An examination of how online actions leave a digital footprint and the implications for future employment. Students will also review basic cyber security threats like phishing.
02Document Creation and Word Processing
Focuses on creating, formatting, and proofing professional text documents for business and personal use.
Students learn to create and format text documents for business use, such as formal letters and CVs. Emphasis is placed on layout, font selection, and alignment.
This topic focuses on enhancing text documents by inserting and formatting images, shapes, and tables. Students will learn to wrap text and adjust graphic properties.
Students utilise spell-check, grammar tools, and print preview functions to prepare documents for distribution. They will understand the importance of accuracy in workplace communications.
03Data Handling with Spreadsheets
Introduces spreadsheet design, automated calculations using formulas, and visual data representation through charts.
Students are introduced to the grid layout of spreadsheets, learning to enter data, adjust cells, and format worksheets. They will create basic tables for tracking information.
This topic covers the use of basic mathematical formulas and built-in functions like SUM and AVERAGE. Students will automate calculations within their data sets.
Students learn to visually represent numerical data by generating pie charts, bar charts, and line graphs. They will format charts to ensure they are clear and accurately labelled.
04Desktop Publishing and Multimedia
Students apply visual design principles to create promotional materials and engaging digital presentations.
An exploration of basic design principles such as balance, contrast, and white space. Students will evaluate existing publications to understand effective layout strategies.
Students use desktop publishing software to design flyers, posters, and brochures for specific target audiences. They will combine text and graphics to communicate a clear message.
This topic focuses on creating engaging slide presentations for professional or academic use. Students will learn to use animations, transitions, and multimedia elements appropriately.
05IT in the Workplace
Covers the fundamentals of computer hardware, file management, and basic troubleshooting techniques for the office environment.
Students identify the core hardware components of a computer system and distinguish between operating systems and application software. They will explore how these elements interact.
A practical guide to organising digital files using logical folder structures and naming conventions. Students will also compare local storage with cloud-based solutions.
Students learn basic troubleshooting techniques for everyday computer problems, such as printer errors or frozen applications. They will develop a systematic approach to resolving technical faults.