The processor
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explain the purpose of the CPU in a computer system and describe the individual characteristics of its components.
Key learning points
- von Neumann architecture is a design of a computer system.
- The von Neumann architecture sends and receives instructions.
- The CPU has key components with different characteristics: control unit, arithmetic logic unit, buses, registers, clock.
- The registers in the CPU, each with its own function, are MAR, MDR, CIR, PC, Acc.
Keywords
Computer architecture - the design of a computer system
Control unit - controls the instructions and other components in the processor
Arithmetic logic unit (ALU) - calculator in the processor used to handle mathematical and logical operations
Registers - a selection of registers that are very small and fast memory locations in the processor
Common misconception
The CPU is the brain of the computer and understands the instructions received.
The CPU is the core of the computer system and receives instructions that it then executes with the help of the different components.
Teacher tip
Using an analogy can help pupils understand the different functions and buses of the components in the CPU.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match each example to the correct concept:
Q2.Which device would be considered a peripheral?
Q3.What does an operating system manage apart from hardware?
Q4.Which of these is NOT managed by the operating system?
Q5.What is the term for the part of a device that lets people interact with and control it?
Q6.Put these steps in order for connecting a peripheral device:
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is the term for the overall design and structure of a computer system?
Q2.What is the main purpose of the von Neumann architecture?
Q3.Match each CPU component to its correct function:
Q4.What is the term for the pathway used to transfer data, addresses or control signals between components inside a computer?
Q5.Match each CPU component or bus to its correct function:
Q6.Which statement best describes how the CPU deals with instructions it receives?
To help you plan your 10 computer science lesson on: The processor, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 computer science lesson on: The processor, 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 computer science lessons from the Computer Systems unit, dive into the full secondary computer science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.