Digital devices
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can describe how digital devices work.
Key learning points
- A digital device uses computer technology to work.
- Digital devices accept inputs and produce outputs.
Keywords
Digital device - an object that uses computer technology to work; it stores and processes information
Input - data that is sent to a program to be processed
Process - a program, or part of a program, which is running on a computer
Output - the result of data processed by a computer
Common misconception
Digital devices always need the internet to work.
Some digital devices work without the internet, such as watches and calculators.
Teacher tip
In this lesson, various digital devices are being introduced. You could have some physical devices for children to explore, as this can turn abstract concepts into something tangible.
Equipment
It is useful for pupils to see a variety of computing devices that are around the school or every day life.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which of these devices can you use to tell the time?
Q2.What do you use a camera for?
Q3.Which of these devices is powered by pedalling?
Q4.What do you use a book for?
Q5.Which of these is something you might find in a classroom? (Select more than one)
Q6.Match the device to its use:
writing on paper
producing light
taking pictures
reading stories
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the term to its definition:
data sent to a program
running a program
result of processing
uses computer technology
Q2.Put these steps in the correct order for how a digital device works:
Q3.What is a key feature of digital devices?
Q4.What is an example of an input for a digital device?
Q5.What is the purpose of processing in a digital device?
Q6.Which of these is an example of an output?
To help you plan your 3 computing lesson on: Digital devices, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 3 computing lesson on: Digital devices, 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 Computer networks unit, dive into the full primary computing curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.