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      Introduction to information technology

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can recognise the uses and features of information technology.

      Key learning points

      1. A computer is an important part of information technology.
      2. Information technology can be used for all sorts of tasks.

      Keywords

      • Computer - a machine that can follow a program

      • Information technology - a computer or things made to work with a computer

      Common misconception

      Only computers are considered IT.

      IT includes items made to work with computers, such as printers and barcodes, not just standalone computers like laptops or tablets.

      Teacher tip

      You should have a clear understanding of devices that can be described as information technology (IT). For younger learners, IT can be explained as being a computer or something that is made to work with computers. Try identifying all the IT that is around you.

      Equipment

      It is useful for pupils to see a variety of computing devices that are around the school or every day life.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Where can you find computers?

      only at home
      only at school
      Correct answer: in many places

      Q2.
      Smartphones, laptops and desktop computers are all ...

      Correct answer: computers.
      calculators.
      competitions.

      Q3.
      Which of these things works with a computer?

      cereal box
      Correct answer: keyboard
      flower

      Q4.
      Which activity can you do with a tablet?

      Correct answer: Create digital artwork.
      Water plants.
      Build a sandcastle.

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      IT stands for ...

      Correct answer: information technology.
      invisible technology.
      interesting technology.

      Q2.
      Which device is not an example of information technology?

      laptop
      computer
      Correct answer: lamp

      Q3.
      What is a computer?

      a machine that never needs electricity
      Correct answer: a machine that follows programs
      a machine made out of metal

      Q4.
      What can a computer not do?

      follow programmed instructions
      Correct answer: fly like a bird
      store information in its memory

      To help you plan your 2 computing lesson on: Introduction to information technology, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...