IT Task Introduction

Overview

Age group: Entry Level 1 (typically learners with basic / no prior experience)
Class size: 8 students
Duration: 45 minutes
Unit: Tech Task Mastery (Lesson 1 of 7)
Lesson title: Introduction to IT in Task Management
National Curriculum Reference:

• Computing KS1 & KS2 (adapted to Entry Level 1 for foundation skills)
• Core aims: Develop confidence and skills in using technology to support daily life and learning (DfE, National Curriculum for England, Computing programme of study)
• Objectives linked to: Recognising IT devices, understanding simple uses of technology to aid tasks, and awareness of benefits of IT
• Focus on Progression Pathway in Computing: E1.1 – Recognise IT, E1.2 – Use technology to complete simple tasks, E1.3 – Begin to identify benefits of technology

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Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will:

1. Identify everyday tasks that can be supported using information technology.
2. Recognise common IT devices used for task management (e.g., computers, tablets, smartphones).
3. Understand and verbalise at least two benefits of using IT to help complete tasks (e.g., saving time, improving accuracy).
4. Engage collaboratively in discussions about technology use.

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Success Criteria

• Students can name at least two devices used with IT.
• Students provide examples of tasks that can be improved using IT.
• Students explain benefits of IT in their own words or via supported communication.
• Students participate actively in group discussions and activities.

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Resources Needed

• Real or mock IT devices (tablet, smartphone, laptop)
• Large printed images/cards showing different tasks (e.g., making a shopping list, sending a message, setting a reminder)
• Whiteboard and markers
• Simple recording device or app (optional, for student verbal responses)
• Task benefit cards with simple icons (e.g., clock for time-saving, smiley face for ease)
• Visual timetable for lesson structure

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Lesson Structure

1. Introduction (5 minutes)

• Welcome and settle the class.
• Show a tablet or smartphone, ask: "What is this?" and "What can it do to help us with tasks?"
• Reference the National Curriculum Computing aim: to recognise IT and its uses.
• Link to everyday life to make it relatable.

2. Exploring Tasks (10 minutes)

• Display cards with different tasks (shopping list, sending a message, setting a timer).
• Invite students to discuss which ones they know and which they think technology can help with.
• Support this with guided questioning: "Have you ever used a phone/tablet to do this?"
• Use paired talk to encourage verbal skills and peer support.

3. Identifying Devices (10 minutes)

• Show the real devices and images of IT devices used at home or school.
• Students match devices to tasks on cards.
• Emphasise device names and simple functions.
• National Curriculum focus: using technology purposefully to complete simple tasks.

4. Benefits of Using IT (10 minutes)

• Use benefit cards to introduce advantages of IT.
• Explain in simple terms, for example: "Technology can help us do things faster" then show the clock card.
• Students sort benefits into a "yes" pile (real advantages) and "no" pile (make-believe or irrelevant).
• Encourage them to give examples or say why a benefit is helpful.

5. Reflection and Recap (7 minutes)

• Recap key points with the class: devices, tasks, benefits.
• Invite each student to say one thing they learnt or liked about the lesson.
• Optional: record or visually represent student responses (drawing or symbol choice).
• Explain what will happen in next lesson: learning how to use a simple IT tool to manage a task.

6. Plenary Activity (3 minutes)

• Quick quiz: show a device or task card, ask volunteers to say if technology can help with this task.
• Praise participation and engagement.

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Differentiation & Inclusion

• For learners with limited verbal skills, use visuals and assistive technology devices.
• Provide sentence starters or word banks for discussion.
• Pair less confident students with peers or support staff.
• Adapt task complexity individually (some may name devices, others may just match pictures).
• Use multisensory activities (touching devices, pointing, signing).

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Assessment

• Informal formative assessment through observation during activities: ability to identify devices and tasks, and articulate benefits.
• Use a simple checklist aligned with success criteria.
• Engage in brief one-to-one questioning if needed.
• Records or photos of completed matching or sorting tasks for evidence.

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Cross-Curricular Links

• Literacy: speaking and listening skills during discussions.
• PSHE: understanding how technology can support independence and everyday life.

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Teacher’s Notes

• Emphasise a relaxed atmosphere to reduce learner anxiety about technology.
• Use real-life examples relevant to students’ environments for better engagement.
• Prepare all visual materials beforehand for smooth transitions.
• Remind students that technology is a helpful tool, not something to be feared.

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This lesson lays a strong foundation for the rest of the “Tech Task Mastery” unit by grounding students in the purpose and advantages of IT in everyday tasks, aligned directly with National Curriculum expectations for early computing confidence and understanding.