Digital Electronics · SHS2 Physics

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 2.3.3.LI.2 - Design and describe the fabrication of a simple integrated circuit.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Describe the major stages in the integrated circuit fabrication process, from silicon wafer to finished chip.
Explain the purpose of key fabrication steps including oxidation, photolithography, etching, doping, and metallisation.
Design a simple integrated circuit diagram for a basic function, such as a NOT gate or a two-input AND gate, using standard logic gate symbols.
Construct a physical model of a simple integrated circuit using a breadboard and discrete components (resistors, transistors, LEDs) that mimics the function of a real IC.
Present and justify their design choices, explaining how each fabrication stage they modelled corresponds to a step in real IC manufacturing.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Electric Field, Magnetic Field and Electronics (Strand 3)
Sub-strand: Digital Electronics (3.3)
Content standard: 2.3.3.CS.3 - Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of simple integrated circuits and be able to Identify and construct them. 2.3.3.LO.3 Describe integrated circuits and design and build simple integrated circuits.
Indicator: 2.3.3.LI.2 - Design and describe the fabrication of a simple integrated circuit.
Suggested placement: Semester 2, Week 16 (Week 36 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. 138

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Experiential Learning: Describe the process of design and fabrication of integrated circuits. Project-Based Learning: Group students based on mixed abilities to design and fabricate a simple IC.
Provide learners with exposure to diverse perspectives and opportunities to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusive practices in physics.
Assessment (2.3.3.AS.2). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 3 Strategic reasoning.
Teaching and Learning Resources:
- laptop/Computer
- Projector
- Internet
- Simulation lab software
- Science kit set