Communication and the internet
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Why this why now
As pupils’ use of the internet grows, it is important they begin to understand not just how to use it, but how it works. This unit introduces the idea that data is transferred across the internet through addressing and packets giving pupils insight into the systems that make online communication possible. By collaborating on shared projects, they see the opportunities technology offers while also evaluating different methods of communication. Learning about responsible communication ensures they develop an awareness useful for both school and everyday life.
Prior knowledge requirements
- Pupils recognise that computer systems can be connected.
- Pupils recognise that the internet is a large-scale network.
- Pupils can identify common networking hardware.
- Pupils can explain the concept of routing on networks.
- Pupils can describe why people need to communicate using digital devices.
Threads
Why this why now
As pupils’ use of the internet grows, it is important they begin to understand not just how to use it, but how it works. This unit introduces the idea that data is transferred across the internet through addressing and packets giving pupils insight into the systems that make online communication possible. By collaborating on shared projects, they see the opportunities technology offers while also evaluating different methods of communication. Learning about responsible communication ensures they develop an awareness useful for both school and everyday life.
Prior knowledge requirements
- Pupils recognise that computer systems can be connected.
- Pupils recognise that the internet is a large-scale network.
- Pupils can identify common networking hardware.
- Pupils can explain the concept of routing on networks.
- Pupils can describe why people need to communicate using digital devices.
Communication and the internet
In this unit pupils explore how data is transferred over the internet. They will examine addressing and the makeup and structure of data packets. They will investigate how the internet facilitates online communication and collaboration and how to communicate responsibly on the internet.
6 lessons in unit
slide decks, worksheet PDFs, quizzes and lesson overviews. You can select individual lessons from the Communication and the internet unit and download the resources you need, or download the entire unit now. See every unit listed in our primary computing curriculum and discover more of our teaching resources for primary computing programmes.