Unit 25: Scripting and coding for websites (LEVEL 3)

Unit 25: Scripting and coding for websites (LEVEL 3) Learning outcomes By completing this unit candidates will develop a thorough knowledge and understanding of different scripting languages used in the production of interactive web pages. Candidates will produce evidence to meet the unit assessment objectives in order to show that they understand: the range of different scripting languages available for use when coding web pages the use and technical requirements of different scripting languages how scripts written in different languages function how to design web pages which process and output data input by a user how to use different scripting languages to implement web pages which have been designed how to configure web browser software so that previously written scripts will function correctly that web pages need testing thoroughly so that visitors using different browsers can view the pages as intended and are not faced with any run time errors when using the pages how to evaluate the effectiveness of scripts written taking into consideration any security issues. It is anticipated that a candidate will require 60 guided learning hours to complete this unit. Assessment objectives 1 Investigate different scripting languages 2 Identify the functionality of different scripting languages Knowledge, understanding and skills Scripting Languages: eg Ajax JavaScript JSP/Java PHP PERL (CGI Scripts) VBScript (ASP) XML Features of languages: eg history typical applications and examples operating requirements effectiveness in performing tasks Functions of languages: eg data types operators selection iteration Annotation of scripts eg: identification of the scripting language explanation of what each part of the script does OCR Level 3 Nationals in ICT 1

Assessment objectives 3 Configure web browser software 4 Design web pages which include scripting 5 Implement web pages which include scripts 6 Test web pages that include scripts Knowledge, understanding and skills Browser Software: eg Internet Explorer Firefox Netscape Opera Safari Configuration: eg configure different web browser software so that scripts will run on them without interference to the user. Requirements: eg statement of purpose for the web pages justification of choice of scripting language statement of which scripting languages will be used hardware and software required to host the web pages so they can be accessed correctly Diagrams required: eg data input, processing and output storyboards showing the web page layout Coding: structured English/Pseudo code outlining what functions scripts are required to perform Database Links: data structures of any databases which the site will link to Directory Structure: directory, subdirectories and appropriate filenames access permissions of the folders will need to be considered once uploaded if data is to be written to a database from the web pages). Keep copies of work on a suitable backup device Requirements of web pages: fit for purpose, that include scripting languages house style include a form on one of the web pages scripts which allow the processing and output of inputted data scripts on pages which return feedback to the user or allow interactivity Uploading: upload the web pages to a server if necessary so that pages will function correctly Annotation: annotate code explaining what the scripts written do Testing requirements ensure pages are visible by users and can be accessed in the correct order show pictures, text and other content appear in the correct place as planned have text that is error free and follow the rules of English (continued overleaf) 2 OCR Level 3 Nationals in ICT

Assessment objectives 6 Cont. Test web pages that include scripts 7 Evaluate web pages that include scripts Knowledge, understanding and skills include scripts that function correctly and produce the desired results work as planned even when different browsers are used Evaluation considerations quality of web pages effectiveness of code in processing and outputting the inputted data strengths/weaknesses in own working practices security issues attributed to using scripting on web pages Assessment This unit is centre assessed and externally moderated. In order to achieve this unit, candidates must produce a portfolio of evidence showing that they have met all of the assessment objectives. Portfolios of work must be produced independently. They will need to be made available, together with witness statements and any other supporting documentation, to the OCR Visiting Moderator when required. Centres must confirm to OCR that the evidence produced by candidates is authentic. An OCR Centre Authentication Form is provided in the Centre Handbook and includes a declaration for assessors to sign. It is a requirement of the QCA Common Criteria for all Qualifications that proof of authentication is received. Guidance on assessment and evidence requirements Candidates may provide portfolio evidence for this unit using a range of suitable and appropriate techniques. This unit could be integrated with others but care needs to be taken that web pages produced do meet the requirements of this specification. The unit asks candidates to: Investigate what different scripting languages are used available for coding web pages, what each is used for, how effective they are and how they function. Candidates will then use this acquired knowledge to select appropriate languages to be used to create their own interactive web pages which process and output data which has been input into the pages by a user. It is expected that pages will be planned, developed and tested to ensure correct functionality. The use of web-authoring software should be encouraged to produce the basic HTML coding although script commands should be added manually either within text editing software or within the coding mode provided by most WYSIWYG authoring software. It is not appropriate to produce this work using desktop publishing or word-processing software and simply saving the final products as HTML. Candidates would be expected to upload their pages to a suitable type of web server, if server side scripting is used, in order to prove that the code they have written functions correctly. It is worth centres noting that provided with Windows XP Professional is a limited version of Microsoft Internet Information Server which once installed and configured would allow candidates to utilise and test if ASP scripting works correctly. OCR Level 3 Nationals in ICT 3

Centres may wish to organise a link with a local business and write an assignment accordingly. This may be useful in the early stages of the course. The assessment objectives (AOs) must be assessed separately, however they might not be carried out separately in discrete units of work. For Assessment Objective 1, candidates need to investigate and report upon a range of different scripting languages which are used in the production of web pages. For each language investigation it is expected that candidates will provide a history or synopsis of the language stating why it evolved and perhaps the logic behind its origin. Candidates will state what the language is primarily used for and whether it operates at browser level (client side scripting language) or at server level (server side scripting language). Annotated examples of tasks in operation from existing web pages could be included to enhance the notes. More able candidates will include notes which comment upon the languages effectiveness in completing tasks which it has been programmed to do. Candidates need to also comment upon any operating requirements which need to be considered when using a scripting language eg ASP will happily run on Microsoft Servers but if Linux is going to be used as the host then additional software is required. Evidence for this AO could take a number of forms (newsletter, presentation for example) and perhaps integrated into another unit. For Assessment Objective 2, candidates need to annotate some existing scripts which they will obtain with each written in a different language. This will assist candidates in getting a flavour of what the code looks like, how the routines are constructed and ultimately allowing them to choose which is most appropriate for them to use when developing their own pages. The annotation needs to include: A clear indication of the scripting language been used, an explanation of what each part of the script does, an identification of any selection (if/else statements), iteration (loops), data types and operators (Boolean and relational) used within the script. When determining the level for this assessment objective, the assessor needs to take into account the level of detail and accuracy of the annotation and the range of scripting languages considered. Annotation should be made using software and at distinction level it is expected candidates use the comment facility of the language being used. For Assessment Objective 3, candidates will show that they can configure browser software so that scripts will work effectively and without any hindrance to users. Evidence for this task may be a user guide or simply annotated screen shots. A teacher witness statement would also produce relevant evidence for this task. Candidates will be expected to configure at least two of the common web browsers available with more able candidates considering a range of different ones which reflect typical usage. For Assessment Objective 4, candidates will plan and design a series of web pages which will process and output data that has been entered by a user. Although the emphasis of the unit is on scripting candidates will still design aesthetically pleasing web pages which take into consideration house style and position of components. Before candidates can start planning they need to state the purpose of the series of web pages that they will script, the language they will use and the logic behind their choice of language. Storyboards of the web pages they will produce need to be drawn showing location of components and how they will link together. A diagram showing the flow of data between the input, processing and output should be included along with an explanation (in structured English/Pseudo code) of what the scripts to be written will do. If the candidate intends to link the web pages to a database then the structure of this should be designed. There also needs to be notes in relation to the technical requirements needed to host the site including server type and software that needs to be running. For Assessment Objective 5, candidates need to create the web pages they have designed. Web authoring software should be used to produce the content with scripting commands manually added. Before candidates start to implement their pages they will set up a suitable folder structure. If candidates intend users to append data to a database, then permissions of the folder where the database will reside need to be considered. Every attempt to upload the finished web pages should 4 OCR Level 3 Nationals in ICT

be made although there is no requirement to register domain names. If the candidate uses server side scripting then it is expected that the site is uploaded otherwise it will not be possible to test if the scripts work. Evidence for this AO will include annotated prints of the code used explaining how it works. For Assessment Objective 6, candidates need to write a test plan/table to ensure that the web pages they have produced function properly. If any changes are required, these should be documented. It is expected that they will test the website to ensure that pages can be accessed in the correct order, pictures, text and other content appear in the correct place as planned, text has no spelling errors and makes good use of English, scripts included on the pages function correctly and produce the desired results. As users tend to use a range of browser software it is also expected that tests are carried out on different browsers to ensure that the site continues to operate no matter how it is accessed For Assessment Objective 7, candidates need to evaluate the pages they have produced. When writing the evaluations candidates need to consider: Quality of web pages which have been produced, effectiveness of code in processing and outputting the inputted data, strengths/weaknesses in own working practices. It is also expected that candidates make reference to any security implications for users by allowing scripts to be run within browser software and possible solutions. Signposting to Key Skills The unit contains opportunities for developing the Key Skill, and possibly for generating portfolio evidence, if teaching and learning is focused on that aim. Assessing staff will need to check each candidate s evidence against the specifications to ensure all evidence requirements have been met. Additional evidence may also be required. Key Skill reference Key Skill reference Key Skill reference C3.1a N3.1 ICT3.1 C3.1b N3.2 ICT3.2 C3.2 N3.3 ICT3.3 C3.3 Mapping to National Occupational Standards Occupational Standards (e-skills UK) Title Evaluate the impact of IT Information Management Internet and intranets IT security for users Make selective use of IT Operate a computer Specialist or bespoke software Website software Data analysis and data structure design Managing software development Quality management of ICT products and services OCR Level 3 Nationals in ICT 5

Occupational Standards (e-skills UK) Title Security of ICT systems Software development - component creation Software development - design System management Testing ICT systems General uses of IT Purposes for using IT Use IT software Use IT systems Use IT to exchange information Resources This section provides suggestions of suitable resources. The list is neither prescriptive nor exhaustive, and candidates should be encouraged to gather information from a variety of sources. Some suggested resources are intended for Tutor use. The resources in this section were correct at the time of production. Books Negrino, T. Smith, D. (31 Aug 2006) Pinkley, D. Herrera, M. Ullman, L. (29 Feb 2004) Castro, E. (30 Apr 2001) Javascript and Ajax for the Web Peachpit Press; 6Rev Ed edition PHP for the World Wide Web Peachpit Press; 2nd Ed edition Perl and CGI for the World Wide Web Peachpit Press; 2Rev Ed edition Websites Active Server Pages tutorial for beginners. URL:http://www.asptutorial.info/ 6 OCR Level 3 Nationals in ICT

Grading Assessment Objective AO1 Investigate different scripting languages AO2 Identify the functionality of different scripting languages AO3 Configure web browser software Pass Merit Distinction Candidates provide a basic description including use of and, rationale behind some of the scripting languages used when producing interactive web pages. A few examples will support the description although difficulty may be shown in determining whether the language is suitable for the purpose. Candidates provide a simple explanation of the technical requirements of each scripting language although a limited understanding will be shown. Candidates provide annotated scripts for a few different scripting languages. The annotation will show a brief summary of the scripts workings although it may only indicate a limited understanding of the code. Candidates demonstrate basic configuration changes within two browsers so that scripting languages will function within them. Candidates provide a detailed description including use of and, rationale behind many of the scripting languages used when producing interactive web pages. A range of appropriate examples will support the description and an accurate reflection is shown when determining whether the language is suitable for the purpose. Candidates provide a clear explanation of the technical requirements of each scripting language and some understanding will be shown. Candidates provide annotated scripts for a range of different scripting languages. The annotation will show an accurate summary of the scripts workings and will indicate an understanding of the code. Candidates demonstrate competent configuration changes within more than two browsers so that scripting languages will function within them. Candidates provide a comprehensive description including use of and, rationale behind most of the scripting languages used when producing interactive web pages. A variety of well chosen examples will support the description and an accurate reflection is shown when determining whether the language is suitable for the purpose with thorough justification. Candidates provide a detailed explanation of the technical requirements of each scripting language showing a thorough understanding. Candidates provide annotated scripts for most scripting languages. The annotation will show an accurate and concise summary of the scripts workings and will indicate a thorough understanding of the code. Candidates demonstrate fully competent configuration changes within more than three browsers so that scripting languages will function within them. OCR Level 3 Nationals in ICT 7

Assessment Objective AO4 Design web pages which include scripting A05 Implement web pages which include scripts Pass Merit Distinction Candidates produce basic design notes for pages they intend to create. They will state the purpose of the pages and scripting language(s) to be used. A basic storyboard and diagram showing movement of data will be included. Candidates show some planning of the scripts which need to be written although little thought into technical requirements to host the site may be given. Candidates set up a suitable folder structure with files named appropriately. Candidates create basic web pages which use scripting to process and output data which has been entered. Web pages will have some consistency. Candidates provide a brief summary, of what the code they have written does, by annotating the scripts. Candidates produce detailed design notes for pages they intend to create. They will describe the purpose of the pages and scripting language(s) to be used. A detailed storyboard and diagram showing movement of data will be included. Candidates plan the scripts which need to be written and include notes relating to the technical requirements to host the site. Candidates set up a suitable folder structure with most files named appropriately. Candidates create appropriate web pages which use scripting to effectively process and output data which has been entered. Web pages use a house style which has been developed by the candidate to ensure the pages are consistent. Candidates provide an accurate summary, of what the code they have written does, by annotating the scripts Candidates produce thorough design notes for pages they intend to create. They will fully describe the purpose of the pages and justify the choice of scripting language(s) to be used. A comprehensive storyboard and diagram showing movement of data will be included. Candidates fully plan the scripts which need to be written and include designs for any data sources which will be linked to. Candidates outline in full the technical requirements needed to host the website. Candidates set up a suitable folder structure with all files named appropriately. Candidates create high quality web pages which use scripting to effectively process and output data which has been entered. Web pages use a house style which has been developed by the candidate to ensure the pages are consistent. Candidates provide an accurate and concise summary, of what the code they have written does, by annotating the scripts 8 OCR Level 3 Nationals in ICT

Assessment Objective A06 Test web pages that include scripts Pass Merit Distinction Candidates provide evidence that limited testing of their web pages has been carried out. Content will have been checked although some errors may remain. Little consideration is shown into whether the pages continue to function correctly in other browsers. Candidates provide evidence that detailed testing of their web pages has been carried out covering most of the main aspects. Where problems have been rectified evidence of before and after code is included. Content will have been checked so that few obvious errors remain. Some consideration is shown into whether the pages continue to function correctly in other browsers with evidence included that pages have been tested in at least two browsers. Candidates provide evidence that thorough testing of their web pages has been carried out covering all of the main aspects. Where problems have been rectified evidence of before and after code is included. Content will have been checked so that no errors remain. Full consideration is shown into whether the pages continue to function correctly in other browsers with evidence included that pages have been tested in several browsers. A07 Evaluate web pages that include scripts Candidates provide a brief and not always accurate evaluation of the web pages they have produced. They will suggest limited improvements to the pages and their working practices. Little explanation of the effectiveness of the pages ability to process and output data which has been inputted is offered. A simple analysis of the security risks involved with running scripts is made. Candidates provide a detailed and accurate evaluation of the web pages they have produced. They will suggest realistic improvements to the pages and their working practices. A detailed explanation of the effectiveness of the pages ability to process and output data which has been inputted is offered. A clear analysis of the security risks involved with running scripts is made. Candidates provide a comprehensive and accurate evaluation of the web pages they have produced. They will suggest realistic improvements to the pages and their working practices with thorough justification. A comprehensive explanation of the effectiveness of the pages ability to process and output data which has been inputted is offered. A critical analysis of the security risks involved with running scripts is made. OCR Level 3 Nationals in ICT 9