Types of network
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can describe how devices operate in a client–server network and explain the purpose of different types of networks.
Key learning points
- A client is a device that makes requests on a network.
- A server is a device that responds to requests and provides services.
- Computers on a network can act as clients or servers, each with a specific role.
- Different network types (PAN, LAN, WAN) are used for communication over varying distances.
Keywords
Client-server model - a network where devices are designated as clients or servers
Personal area network (PAN) - a network of personal devices that allows data to be exchanged within their immediate vicinity
Local area network (LAN) - a single network covering a single site, usually covering a small geographical area
Wide area network (WAN) - two or more distinct networks connected together, usually covering a large geographical area
Common misconception
All devices in a network do the same thing, they just send and receive data.
In a client–server network, devices have different roles. Servers provide services like file storage or email. Clients request and use those services, rather than providing them.
Teacher tip
Use real-life analogies like a school system to make abstract ideas easier to understand by relating them to familiar contexts.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
5 Questions
Q1.What is the term for a group of connected computers that can share resources and communicate with each other?
Q2.Why do people often use networks in a work environment?
Q3.What is one main reason schools set up computer networks?
Q4.Match each network feature to its benefit:
stores and manages shared files
provides access to information and online resources
controls who can access resources
allows people to work together in real time
Q5.How does using the internet in a network help with research and learning?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is the main role of a client in a network?
Q2.What is the main role of a server in a network?
Q3.Put these steps in order to access a file in a client–server network:
Q4.Which of these is a misconception about devices on a client-server network?
Q5.What does PAN stand for?
Q6.Match each keyword to its purpose:
requests services or resources
provides services or resources
connects devices in one building or area
connects devices over large distances
To help you plan your 11 computer science lesson on: Types of network, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 11 computer science lesson on: Types of network, 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 Network fundamentals unit, dive into the full secondary computer science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.