Types of ICT Tools

Overview

Duration: 40 minutes
Class size: 6 students
Unit: Tech Tools for Work (Lesson 2 of 8)
Age group: Year 3 (7-8 years old)
Curriculum: National Curriculum for England - Key Stage 2 Computing

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Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, pupils will be able to:

• Identify and name different types of ICT tools commonly used in workplaces (computers, smartphones, printers).
• Describe the basic function of each type of ICT tool.
• Organise information into a simple chart format.

National Curriculum links:

• Computing Key Stage 2:

  • Key stage 1 and 2 -> Pupils should be taught to
    • Understand what algorithms are; how they are implemented as programs on digital devices; and that programs execute by following precise and unambiguous instructions (linked to understanding purpose of devices).
    • Use technology purposefully to create, organise, store, manipulate, and retrieve digital content.
  • Understand computer networks including the internet; how they can provide multiple services, such as the world-wide web. (Relevant when discussing device connectivity.)

• English Key Stage 2: Consolidating skills in presenting information clearly (creating a chart).

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Resources

• Interactive whiteboard or projector
• Example images or real devices: computer, smartphone, printer (actual devices if available)
• Printed worksheet with chart template (3 columns: ICT Tool, Picture, Basic Function)
• Coloured pencils or markers
• Flashcards with ICT tool names and functions
• Sticky notes for group work

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Lesson Structure

1. Starter Activity (5 minutes)

Objective: Activate prior knowledge about everyday technology

• Begin with a short discussion:
  "Can you name any technology you have seen adults use at work?"
• Show images/devices and ask pupils what they think they are and what they do.
• Write their ideas on the board in a brainstorm style.

Teacher tip: Use simple, relatable examples (e.g., someone typing on a computer, using a smartphone to make a call, or printing a document).

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2. Main Teaching Input (10 minutes)

Objective: Introduce three specific ICT tools and their functions

• Introduce three ICT tools with real examples or images:

  1. Computer – Used to type documents, send emails, create presentations.
  2. Smartphone – Used to communicate, check calendars, take photos.
  3. Printer – Used to print papers and pictures from a computer or phone.

• For each device, model explaining its function clearly and simply. Use the language:
  "This is a … It helps people to …"

• Link each tool to a common workplace scenario, e.g., office, shop, school.

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3. Guided Group Activity (15 minutes)

Objective: Create a chart categorising ICT tools and their functions

• Hand out the worksheet with a blank chart — three columns headed: ICT Tool, Picture of Tool, Basic Function.

• In pairs or groups of three, pupils will:

  • Write the name of each ICT tool in the first column.
  • Draw or stick a picture (provided by the teacher) in the second column.
  • Write a simple sentence describing the tool’s function in the third column.

• Circulate and support using questioning:

  • "What does this tool do for people at work?"
  • "How is this tool helpful?"

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4. Independent Reflection (5 minutes)

Objective: Assessment of understanding through verbal explanation

• Each pupil presents one part of the chart to the class, explaining what an ICT tool is and its use.

• Teacher notes use of vocabulary, sentence structure, and accuracy of function description.

• For deeper engagement, ask:
  "Can you think of another place where this tool might be useful?"

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5. Plenary (5 minutes)

Objective: Reinforce learning and connect to next lesson

• Summarise key points:
  "Today, we learned about three ICT tools and why people use them at work."

• As a class, quickly complete a “What did we learn?” poster on the board with keywords and drawings created by students.

• Preview next lesson: "Next time we will explore how to use some of these tools safely and responsibly."

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Differentiation

• Support: Provide pre-written words for each ICT tool and its function for pupils who need extra help.
• Challenge: Ask more confident pupils to add an example of a workplace where the tool might be used differently or to suggest another ICT tool.

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Assessment for Learning

• Formative assessment: Observe pupils’ contributions in discussions, group work accuracy, and verbal explanations.
• Success criteria: Pupils correctly name ICT tools, describe functions, and participate in constructing the chart clearly.

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Cross-Curricular Links

• English: Practising sentence writing and speaking skills.
• Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE): Understanding technology’s role in everyday life and work.

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Extension Ideas

• Create a class “ICT Tools Wall” where pupils can add new tools they discover throughout the unit.
• Role-play: Simulate a workplace where pupils choose and explain which ICT tool they need and why.

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Teacher Notes

• Emphasise simple, clear vocabulary with repetition to aid understanding.
• Use hands-on or visual materials to cater to different learning styles.
• Ensure pupils have some choice/control during group activity to boost engagement.
• Maintain a positive, encouraging environment for all pupils to contribute.

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This lesson plan embeds clear, age-appropriate objectives aligned with the National Curriculum's Computing programme of study for Key Stage 2, focusing on understanding practical uses of ICT tools in the workplace context. It combines visual, verbal, and kinesthetic learning to promote deeper understanding and fosters early digital literacy skills needed for future learning.