Boolean logic
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can describe how computers use Boolean logic and logic gates to make decisions.
Key learning points
- Computers make decisions using Boolean logic rules like AND, OR and NOT.
- Logic gates are electronic versions of logic rules that can be combined to control what a computer does.
- All computer hardware is built from logic circuits that understand only binary (0s and 1s).
Keywords
Boolean - an expression that evaluates to either True or False
Logic gate - an electronic component that carries out a logical operation
Truth table - a table showing the outputs for all possible combinations of inputs to a logic gate or logic circuit
Common misconception
Boolean logic is about numbers
Boolean logic is about truth values such as yes/no, true/false or (1/0).
Teacher tip
Use relatable, real-world scenarios to explain Boolean logic. For example, you can go outside if it's sunny "AND" you've finished your homework.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is the main job of the operating system?
Q2. devices can be seen and touched.
Q3.What does 'control' mean in the context of computers?
Q4.Why does the operating system manage memory and CPU time?
Q5.Put these steps in order for how the operating system helps a program run:
Q6.Match each part of the computer to its function:
manages hardware and software
runs instructions
stores data for running programs
lets you interact with the computer
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is the name for an electronic component that carries out a logical operation?
Q2.What do computers use Boolean logic for?
Q3.What is the name for a chart that shows all possible True and False outputs for a logic rule?
Q4.Put these steps in order for using Boolean logic in a computer:
Q5.Match each logic gate to its function:
true if both inputs are true
true if either input is true
reverses the input
Q6.Which statement about Boolean logic is incorrect?
To help you plan your 8 computing lesson on: Boolean logic, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 8 computing lesson on: Boolean logic, 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 3 computing lessons from the Computer systems and data science unit, dive into the full secondary computing curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.