Connected Computer Systems

Overview

A practical, hands-on lesson for Year 2 students designed to help them understand that computers can be connected to form systems. Using Chromebooks and real-world analogies, this 40-minute session aligns with the National Curriculum for Computing and ICT in England, providing multi-sensory activities suitable for young learners, including those with additional needs.

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Curriculum Links

National Curriculum for Computing - Key Stage 1 (Years 1 & 2):

• Understand what algorithms are; how they are implemented as programs on digital devices.
• Use logical reasoning to predict the behaviour of simple programs.
• Recognise common uses of information technology beyond school.

Computing Programmes of Study - Year 2:

• Understand how computer systems work.
• Use technology purposefully to create, organise, store, manipulate and retrieve digital content.

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Learning Objectives (LO)

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:

• Explain that systems are built using a number of parts.
• Describe that a computer system features inputs, processes, and outputs.
• Explain that computer systems can communicate with other devices.

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Equipment & Resources

• 8 Chromebooks (one per student)
• A large printed poster showing a simple computer system diagram (input, process, output) with bright icons (e.g. keyboard, CPU, screen, printer).
• Printed cards with different system parts labelled (input, process, output, communication).
• Velcro or magnets for interactive card placement on the poster.
• Pre-prepared Chromebook activity (drag & drop labelling exercise).
• Real objects to simulate inputs and outputs (e.g. a toy keyboard, headphone, light bulb, small fan).

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Lesson Structure

1. Introduction (5 minutes)

• Engage: Show the large poster with a colourful, simple computer system diagram. Ask:
  “Can you tell me what parts you see here? What do you think a system means?”
• Explain: Introduce the idea that like a machine made of many parts, a computer system is made up of different parts working together.

2. Exploring Inputs, Processes, Outputs (10 minutes)

• Explain with objects:
  • Show a toy keyboard (input), the Chromebook screen (output), and the "thinking" CPU in-between (process).
  • Use a simple analogy: “When you press a key on the keyboard, the computer thinks about what you want, then shows you a letter on the screen.”
• Class activity:
  • Pass around toy inputs and outputs to show the parts physically.
  • Invite students to describe what each part does in their own words with support.

3. Chromebook Labelling Activity (15 minutes)

• Practical session:
  • Each student opens a pre-loaded drag & drop activity on their Chromebook.
  • Task: Label different parts of a computer system (inputs, processes, outputs, communication devices).
  • Support provided as needed—partner work encouraged.
  • Teacher circulates, discussing answers and reinforcing vocabulary.

4. Systems Communicating - Real Life Example (5 minutes)

• Explain: Show how Chromebooks can communicate – e.g., sharing a simple document or sending messages.
• Demonstration: Teacher sends a message or file to all Chromebooks simultaneously – highlight how devices “talk” to each other as part of a system.

5. Recap and Assessment (5 minutes)

• Interactive Q&A: Use printed system cards and ask students to place them on the poster in the correct place – input, process, output, communication.
• Evidence of learning:
  • Listen to students' explanations using sentence starters:
    • “A system is made of…”
    • “The input is…”
    • “The output shows…”
    • “The computer talks to…”
• Provide praise and specific feedback aligned with success criteria.

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Differentiation & Special Needs Considerations

• Use highly visual and tactile resources for learners with communication difficulties.
• Provide sentence frames and word banks for expressive language support.
• Use peer buddies to assist learners in the Chromebook activity.
• Keep instructions clear, simple, and concise. Use repetition and gestures.
• Break activities into small steps with frequent checks for understanding.

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Assessment for Learning

• Formative: Teacher observes student participation in activities and oral explanations.
• Summative: Completed Chromebook labelling activity saved for progress review.
• Self-assessment: Students use thumbs up/down or simple smiley faces to express confidence with the concept.

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Extension and Home Learning Suggestion

• Encourage children to spot "computer systems" at home (TV, tablet, household devices).
• Create a simple drawing or collage at home showing parts of a system (input, process, output).

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Teacher Notes & Tips

• Be animated in explanations, linking computer systems to everyday experiences to maintain engagement.
• Use real examples of input devices (mouse, microphone) and output devices (speakers, printer) to build curiosity.
• Chromebooks’ tactile screen/drawing tools can be used alternatively if dragging labels proves tricky.
• Celebrate small successes enthusiastically to build confidence.

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This lesson plan supports National Curriculum goals on understanding computer systems, using hands-on practice and familiar technology to make abstract concepts concrete and accessible for young learners, including those with additional educational needs.