The TCP/IP model
I can explain the TCP/IP model and common network protocols.
The TCP/IP model
I can explain the TCP/IP model and common network protocols.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- The TCP/IP model has four layers, each responsible for a different aspect of network communication.
- Common network protocols operate at specific layers and serve defined purposes in data transmission.
Keywords
Layers - a level in a model that describes how data is transmitted across a network
TCP/IP model - a conceptual four layer model and set of protocols for internet communications
Common misconception
Students may think protocols like HTTP or FTP operate at all layers, or that TCP and IP are the only protocols in the model.
Specific protocols perform unique functions at dedicated TCP/IP layers.
To help you plan your year 11 computer science lesson on: The TCP/IP model, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 11 computer science lesson on: The TCP/IP model, 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 The internet and web technologies unit, dive into the full secondary computer science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Post-it notes. Diagram of the TCP/IP stack.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is the term for a set of rules that devices follow to communicate with each other on a network?
Q2.Who or what usually assigns IP addresses on a local network?
Q3.What does the acronym DNS stand for?
Q4.What is the term for a small part of a file that is sent separately across a network to help transmit information efficiently?
Q5.Place these steps in order to describe how data is sent over the internet.
Q6.Match each term to its example.
HTTP
HTTPS
part of an email message
Chrome
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.How many layers are there in the TCP/IP model?
Q2.What is the main role of the application layer in the TCP/IP model?
Q3.Where does the Ethernet protocol operate in the TCP/IP model?
Q4.Which layer is responsible for routing data across different networks?
Q5.Put these TCP/IP layers in order from top (user) to bottom (hardware).
Q6.Match each protocol to the correct TCP/IP layer.
application layer
transport layer
internet layer
network access layer