Exploring the keyboard
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can use a computer to write.
Key learning points
- A keyboard is a common way to enter text on a computer.
- Keys on a keyboard have a special order.
- A word processor is an application designed for writing.
Keywords
Keyboard - device used to send information into a computer
Typing - writing with a computer
Word processor - what we use to write documents and stories on a computer
Text - words or numbers written or printed to share information or tell a story
Common misconception
A computer keyboard only has letters.
Keyboards include keys for numbers, a space, and other special characters.
Teacher tip
The keyboard layout that pupils may be using might look different to the slides. Generic terms and pictures have been used but pupils will benefit from these being replaced with layouts that match what pupils will be expected to use.
Equipment
Pupils will need access to a device with word processing software. Examples in this lesson use Google Docs https://oak.link/google.docs
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Which of these is a letter of the alphabet?
Q2.Which of these is a number?
Q3.What do you use between words when writing?
Q4.What can computers help you do?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.What is a common way to enter text on a computer?
Q2.Which key is used to add a new line in a word processor?
Q3.What does a word processor help you do?
Q4.What type of keys are not found on a keyboard?
To help you plan your 1 computing lesson on: Exploring the keyboard, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 1 computing lesson on: Exploring the keyboard, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 1 computing lessons from the Digital writing unit, dive into the full primary computing curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.