Database fundamentals
I can describe the difference between a flat file and relational database.
Database fundamentals
I can describe the difference between a flat file and relational database.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Data is fundamental to any computer system.
- With data comes the need for a system that is able to store, sort, and search through it.
- A database is an organised collection of data.
- Databases can be as simple as a single file, and as complex as a set of related tables, each with fields and keys.
Keywords
Record - a data structure that stores related fields of data for a single object or being.
Field - the part of a record which are the category headings for data in a table sometimes called an attribute.
Primary key - an attribute that uniquely identifies a record in a database table.
Foreign key - an attribute in one table that is the primary key in another table and is used to link the tables together.
Common misconception
A primary key and a foreign key are the same thing.
A primary key is an attribute that uniquely identifies a record in a database table, whereas a foreign key is an attribute in one table that is the primary key in another table and is used to link the tables together.
To help you plan your year 11 computer science lesson on: Database fundamentals, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 11 computer science lesson on: Database fundamentals, 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.
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Explore more key stage 4 computer science lessons from the Databases and SQL unit, dive into the full secondary computer science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
“Date of Birth”
“12345” (unique number in a table)
“Student ID” in a second table (linking between tables)
each record links to only one in the other table
one record links to several in the other table
records in both tables link to several in the other, via a join table