Computer architecture
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can describe the parts of a computer system and explain how they work together to execute programs.
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 run or carry out the commands in a program
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.
Teacher tip
Computer architecture can feel abstract, so use simple diagrams and real world comparisons to keep learners engaged and help them understand the topic.
Licence
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
Q6.Which statement is correct about the importance of computer parts?
To help you plan your 8 computing lesson on: Computer architecture, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 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.
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.