Software and embedded systems
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can describe the differences between embedded and general purpose computer systems and the role of application and utility software.
Key learning points
- An embedded computer system has a specific task or set of tasks to complete.
- A general purpose computer system has a range of purposes defined by a user interaction.
- Application software is developed to perform end-user tasks.
- Utility software manages specific tasks on a computer system.
Keywords
General purpose computer - a computer designed to perform many different tasks
Embedded computer - a small computer built into a device to control specific functions
Utility software - helps maintain and improve the performance of a computer system
Application software - software used by humans to complete a task
Common misconception
Embedded system is a computer inside a computer / system inside a system.
Embedded systems are specific to a given task and often found within a machine.
Teacher tip
It may be useful to use real world examples for embedded systems that pupils have found in the classroom or at home.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is the term for the programs and applications that run on a computer?
Q2.What does hardware refer to in computing?
Q3.Which of the following is an example of hardware?
Q4.Which of these is an example of specialised technology?
Q5.Match the term to its definition:
data entered into a system, such as using a keyboard or sensor
the action of transforming or manipulating data within a system
the result produced by a system, such as a printed document or display
Q6.Which of the following best describes a computer system?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is the main purpose of an embedded computer system?
Q2.What is a general purpose computer system?
Q3.Which of the following is an example of application software?
Q4.What is the role of utility software?
Q5.Why is an embedded system not considered a system inside a system?
Q6.Match the term to its description:
embedded technology used in factories for precision tasks
a portable general purpose computer
application software used to create and edit documents
utility software that protects a computer from malware
To help you plan your 10 computer science lesson on: Software and embedded systems, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 computer science lesson on: Software and embedded systems, 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.