SHS1 Computing · Semester 1 Week 11: Computer Hardware and Software

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 1.1.2.LI.1 - Explain the features of the hardware components of a computer (input hardware, processing hardware, output hardware, storage hardware and communication hardware).

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Identify and name at least four hardware components of a computer and correctly classify each one under input, processing, output, storage, or communication hardware.
Describe the key features of each category of hardware, including their purpose and how they handle data.
Explain how data flows from an input device through the processing hardware and out to output or storage devices, using the correct order.
Demonstrate, through a labelled diagram or verbal explanation, the relationship between the five hardware categories and trace the path of data among them.
Assess the suitability of a given hardware component for a specific task, justifying their choice based on the features they have learned.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Computer Architecture and Organisation (Strand 1)
Sub-strand: Computer Hardware and Software (1.2)
Content standard: 1.1.2.CS.1 - Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of components of Computer Hardware and types of Software 1.1.2.LO.1 Explain the relationships between the components of a computer and how data are transferred among the components. Explain types of Software and their functions
Indicator: 1.1.2.LI.1 - Explain the features of the hardware components of a computer (input hardware, processing hardware, output hardware, storage hardware and communication hardware).
Suggested placement: Semester 1, Week 11 (Week 11 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 29

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Group Work/Talk for Learning:
- Use think-pair-share to discuss the features of the hardware components of a computer
- In groups, brainstorm on the features of the hardware components of a computer (input hardware, processing hardware, output hardware, storage hardware and communication hardware). Give all learners equal opportunity and use webbing to organise the views of the learners.
SEL: When teaching about the hardware components of a computer teachers can integrate Social Emotional Learning (SEL) principles to create an engaging and supportive learning experience. Here are some SEL features you can incorporate into this specific topic: Self-awareness:
- provides opportunities for self-assessment of their skills and progress in applying these concepts to manipulate data.
- helps students recognise their emotions and attitudes towards the topic, supporting their self-confidence and self-efficacy.
Self-management:
- guides students in setting goals and planning their work
- fosters resilience and perseverance by supporting students in managing challenges and setbacks they may encounter during the learning process.
Social awareness:
- promotes collaborative learning by assigning group projects or activities to learners
- encourages students to share their knowledge and expertise with their peers, creating a supportive learning community.
Relationship skills:
- promotes teamwork and collaboration by encouraging students to work together to solve complex problems and share their insights and solutions.
- emphasises the value of giving and receiving constructive feedback
Responsible decision-making:
- encourages learners to make informed decisions.
- encourages critical thinking and reflection
Teaching and Learning Materials:
- * Pen * Smartphones * Laptops
- * Tablets * TV and Radio * Open Educational Resources (including YouTube, MOOCs -
- Udemy/Coursera, Khan Academy, and TESSA)
- * Productivity tools ix. Subject-based application software * Instructional Laboratories (with multimedia equipment and smartboards) * Maintenance and repair workshops
Assessment (1.1.2.AS.1). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 1 Recall; Level 3 Strategic reasoning.