Wired networks
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can describe how wired networks are connected using different types of transmission media.
Key learning points
- Wired networks use physical cables to connect devices and transfer data.
- Fibre optic and copper cables have different features that affect speed, distance and reliability.
Keywords
Wired networks - a network where devices are connected using physical cables to transfer data
Copper Ethernet cable - a common network cable made from twisted copper wires that transmits data using electrical signals
Fibre optic cable - a high-speed network cable that sends data as pulses of light
Common misconception
All wired networks use the same type of cable.
Copper Ethernet and fibre optic cables have different speeds, distances and uses. For example, copper Ethernet is fine for short distances, but fibre optic is better for fast, long-distance connections.
Teacher tip
Bring in real cables or show images of copper (Ethernet) and fibre optic cables. Let students compare them visually.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.In a star topology, how are devices connected?
Q2.What is the main feature of a bus topology?
Q3.Which statement describes a mesh topology?
Q4.In a bus topology, what happens if the main cable breaks?
Q5.Which topology is often used in large, reliable networks like the internet?
Q6.Match each network topology to its main disadvantage:
expensive and complex to set up
network fails if the central hub or switch breaks
whole network can stop working if the main cable fails
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is a wired network?
Q2.What is a copper Ethernet cable used for?
Q3.Which cable is better for long-distance, high-speed data transfer?
Q4.Put these steps in order for setting up a wired network in an office:
Q5.Match each keyword to its description:
a network using physical cables
a cable made from twisted copper wires, uses electrical signals
a cable that sends data as pulses of light
the physical path used to transfer data
Q6.What are copper Ethernet cables commonly used for?
To help you plan your 11 computer science lesson on: Wired networks, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 11 computer science lesson on: Wired networks, 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.