Data packets
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explain how data is transferred across the internet.
Key learning points
- Data sent across networks is split into smaller parts called packets.
- Data is transferred over networks in packets.
- All data transferred over the internet is in packets.
Keywords
Packet - small chunks of a whole file that are sent (transmitted) over a network. Each packet contains a header and a payload
Header - part of a packet that contains addressing and other data
Network - a group of connected computers
Payload - part of a packet that contains the message being sent
Common misconception
Data is sent all at once as one big file.
Data is split into packets, sent separately and then reassembled.
Teacher tip
Use visual aids such as puzzles or envelopes with message fragments to help pupils understand that data is split into packets, sent separately, and reassembled on arrival.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is the main role of a Domain Name Server (DNS)?
Q2.What is the name for the unique number given to each device on a network?
Q3.What do the letters “IP” stand for in the term “IP address”?
Q4.Match the example to what it is:
an IP address
a website name
communication
data
Q5.What do you usually type into your browser to visit a website?
Q6.Which of these is NOT a job of the DNS?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which of these best describes a network?
Q2.What is the name for a small chunk of data sent across a network?
Q3.Which statement is correct about how data travels over the internet?
Q4.Why is it better to send data in packets rather than as one big file?
Q5.Match each part of a packet header to its correct description:
the unique number given to this specific packet
the total number of packets in the whole message
the address of the device sending the packet
the address of the device meant to receive the packet
Q6.What is the part of a data packet that carries the actual information being sent across a network?
To help you plan your 6 computing lesson on: Data packets, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 6 computing lesson on: Data packets, 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 2 computing lessons from the Communication and the internet unit, dive into the full primary computing curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.