Data logging
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can design a control system to log data over time
Key learning points
- Data is a piece of information which can be stored and used by a computer program. This could be numbers or words.
- Different types of data can be collected from a control system, such as temperature, light levels or moisture levels.
- A variable is a piece of data stored in a computer’s memory which can be accessed and changed.
- Data logging is a collection of data over time.
- Feedback is a signal that is sent back in a loop, depending upon a condition.
Keywords
Data - a piece of information which can be stored and used by a computer program
Variable - a piece of data stored in a computer’s memory which can be accessed and changed
Feedback - a signal that is sent back in a loop, depending upon a condition
Common misconception
A variable is a set piece of data that can not change once collected.
A variable is a named piece of data stored in a computer’s memory, accessed and changed by a computer program.
Teacher tip
Open the tinkercad file and familiarise yourself with the variables before sharing with the pupils.
Equipment
Access to tinkercad.
Licence
except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).Lesson video
Loading...
Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Motors can work with direct current (DC) or (AC).
Q2.Servo motors are suitable for applications where precise control of the position, speed, and torque is needed, such as ...
Q3.True or false? Current flows through the coil when the coil is vertical to the magnetic field.
Q4.The casing that hold the magnets in a DC motor is called the ...
Q5.How could you control the speed of a DC motor?
Q6.Which type of motor has a closed-loop system and is a control circuit with a feedback mechanism?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.A variable is a named piece of stored in a computer’s memory, accessed and changed by a computer program.
Q2.Identify the input components.
Q3.What are the three connections on a soil moisture sensor?
Q4.What is feedback?
To help you plan your 10 design and technology lesson on: Data logging, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 design and technology lesson on: Data logging, 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 design and technology lessons from the Systems approach to design: Sustainable Futures unit, dive into the full secondary design and technology curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.