Using a database
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can outline how I can answer questions by grouping and then sorting data.
Key learning points
- Data can be grouped using chosen values.
- Information can be grouped using a search.
- Grouping and sorting can be combined to answer specific questions.
Keywords
Criteria - a rule used to search or sort data
Search - to look for specific data in a database by using a rule
Sort - to put data values in order
Common misconception
Searching a database changes all the records.
Searching only shows the records that match the search; it does not change the database itself.
Teacher tip
Ensure pupils have access to the paper-based records from Lesson 1 or use the provided printout so they can compare manual and digital databases.
Equipment
Pupils will need access to a device with database software. Examples in this lesson use J2E database https://oak.link/database
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is a category of data in each record of a database called?
Q2.Match the keyword to its definition:
a category of data in each record
all the data about one item
a way of presenting data that has been sorted and organised
a database that stores data in a single table
Q3.What is the difference between a field and a record?
Q4.What is the process of arranging data in a specific order in a database called?
Q5.What is the purpose of a database view?
Q6.Why is it useful to sort data in a database?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the action to its purpose:
displays only the records that match a condition
organises data in a specific order
categorises data for easier analysis
Answers specific questions by using grouping and sorting together
Q2.Why is it useful to group data?
Q3.What is an example of a criterion for sorting data?
Q4.How can grouping and sorting be combined?
Q5.Arrange the steps for grouping and sorting data to answer a question:
Q6.What happens to the database when you perform a search?
To help you plan your 5 computing lesson on: Using a database, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 5 computing lesson on: Using a database, 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 Flat-file databases unit, dive into the full primary computing curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.