Computer architecture
I can describe the parts of a computer system and explain how they work together to execute programs.
Computer architecture
I can describe the parts of a computer system and explain how they work together to execute programs.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Every computer has the same basic parts such as a processor, memory, and storage.
- The central processing unit (CPU) executes instructions and controls other parts of a computer system.
- All computers use the fetch, decode, execute cycle as the basic way they execute programs.
Keywords
Processor - the part of the computer that carries out instructions and makes decisions
Random access memory (RAM) - where the computer temporarily stores data and instructions it is using
Storage - where the computer keeps data and files permanently, even when it's turned off
Execute - to carry out a program or a set of instructions on a computer
Common misconception
The CPU is the only important part of a computer.
The CPU is an important part of a computer system but a computer also needs memory, input, output, and storage to work properly. All parts must work together as a system.
To help you plan your year 8 computing lesson on: Computer architecture, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 8 computing lesson on: Computer architecture, 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.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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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.
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Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match each keyword to its correct description.
the physical parts of a computer, like the keyboard or screen
the apps and instructions that run on a computer
a set of instructions that tells a computer what to do
information such as numbers, text, or images that a computer uses
the software that controls the computer and manages other programs
Q2.What word describes an electronic device that processes data?
Q3.What is a computer system made up of?
Q4.Put these actions in order for using a general-purpose computer.
Q5.What makes a general-purpose computer different from a single-purpose device?
Q6.What is the main job of a computer?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which part of a computer is responsible for carrying out instructions?
Q2.What does memory (RAM) do in a computer?
Q3.Which part of a computer keeps data even when the computer is turned off?
Q4.Arrange these steps for how a computer executes a program.
Q5.Match each keyword to its description.
the part that carries out instructions
where data and instructions are kept temporarily
where data and files are kept permanently
to carry out program instructions
the steps for running instructions in a computer