Systems approach to design
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can identify the inputs, processes and outputs in a control system.
Key learning points
- A context is the situation within which something exists and is the starting point for an interactive design process.
- Systems use inputs, processes and outputs, and can also include variables and feedback.
- Systems can be planned using flowcharts.
Keywords
Context - the situation within which something exists or happens
Design brief - a statement that explains what you are going to design and manufacture
Variable - something that can change
Feedback - a signal that is sent back in a loop, depending upon a condition
Common misconception
Systems are simple with just one input, process and output.
Systems can be complex with multiple inputs, processes and outputs, feedback and variables.
Teacher tip
Download the sample programs and test before the lesson.
Equipment
Access to tinkercad.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which are examples of a context, the situation within which something exists or happens?
Q2.A statement that outlines the requirements of a product is a?
Q3.Order these elements of a system approach to design.
Q4.Which definition is correct for this component, a resistor?
Q5.A device that can be programmed to control how an electrical product operates is called a .
Q6.What are the benefits of virtually modelling a design before manufacture?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.When exploring a context, we are ...
Q2.The micro:bit has several onboard inputs and outputs, additional offboard input and output components can be connected via the five .
Q3.What is the diamond shape on a flowchart used for?
Q4.Something that can change in a control system is called a .
To help you plan your 10 design and technology lesson on: Systems approach to design, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 design and technology lesson on: Systems approach to design, 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.