Tools for project planning
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can create Gantt and PERT charts to plan a project and explain the advantages and disadvantages of each tool.
Key learning points
- Planning tools manage time and tasks in a project by visually organising when and how activities should be completed.
- A Gantt chart is a timeline-based planning tool.
- A PERT chart is a network diagram that uses nodes and arrows to show task flow.
Keywords
Gantt chart - a planning tool that displays activities against blocks of time
PERT chart - a PERT chart (Program Evaluation and Review Technique) is a network diagram that uses nodes and arrows to show task flow
Common misconception
Gantt charts are better than PERT charts.
Gantt charts may be deemed better than PERT charts in some instances, but not all. The choice of chart can depend on the project and what the team prefers to use.
Teacher tip
A Gantt chart template is provided for pupils as a downloadable file for this lesson.
Equipment
Pupils will need access to a device with spreadsheet software. Examples in this lesson use Google Sheets https://oak.link/google-sheets
File needed for this lesson
A1 Gantt chart resource 10.28 KB (XLSX)
Download this file to use in the lesson.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match each keyword to its definition:
a goal that is specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and timely
repeating or refining tasks to improve outcomes
overlapping or linking different project stages
Q2.Arrange these steps to create a SMART goal:
Q3.What is the main purpose of interaction between project stages?
Q4.Which of the following best describes iteration?
Q5.What does the “S” in SMART stand for?
Q6.Which part of a SMART goal helps ensure you finish on time?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is the main purpose of using planning tools in a project?
Q2.Which tool is best described as a timeline-based chart showing activities over time?
Q3.What does a PERT chart use to show the flow of tasks?
Q4.Which statement about Gantt and PERT charts is correct?
Q5.Match each term to its definition:
displays activities against blocks of time
network diagram using nodes and arrows for task flow
the sequence of tasks that determines the minimum project duration
when one task relies on another to start or finish
Q6.Match each planning tool to its main advantage:
easy to see when tasks happen
shows complex task relationships
help organise projects visually
used to show project costs
To help you plan your 11 computing lesson on: Tools for project planning, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 11 computing lesson on: Tools for project planning, 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 4 computing lessons from the Using IT in project management unit, dive into the full secondary computing curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.