Discovering Computer Monitors

Grade: 2 | Duration: 45 minutes | Class size: 7 students

Subject: Technology
Curriculum Framework: International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP)
Standards Referenced:

IB PYP Transdisciplinary Theme: How We Organize Ourselves (Technology and Innovation)
Key Concepts: Function, Connection, Perspective
ATL Skills: Communication Skills, Thinking Skills (Understanding Systems), Social Skills (Collaboration and Respect)
National Standard Curriculum of Jamaica: Computer studies - basic computer operations and hardware identification

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

Identify a computer monitor and describe its key features such as shape, size, buttons, and color.
Differentiate between a computer monitor and a television set by observing and discussing their distinct characteristics.
Integrate biblical values by reflecting on the idea of stewardship and responsible use of technology as a gift from God.

Activity: Start with an interactive song about the parts of a computer (monitor, keyboard, mouse) to activate prior knowledge.
Example lyric snippet: “Here’s the monitor, big and bright, shows pictures in day and night!” Encourage the students to clap along and join in. Use visuals or props.
Teacher’s prompt: Show an actual computer monitor or high-quality picture. Ask: “What do you think this is? What do you see on it?”
Differentiation: Use a simple illustrated chart with tactile shapes of monitors for students with dyslexia or learning delays to touch and observe.

Hands-on Station: Provide two stations:
1. Computer monitor - allow students to touch buttons, feel the shape and size.
2. Television set - similarly, students explore and observe differences.
Students work in pairs to closely observe and discuss the differences (e.g., buttons’ location, size, function).
Teacher circulates to guide discussion, asking: “How does this monitor feel different from the television?” “What buttons do you see?”

Gather students back and build a chart together describing the monitor’s features based on their discoveries:
- Shape (mostly rectangular, flat screen)
- Size (smaller than most TVs)
- Buttons (on the side or bottom)
- Color (usually black, grey, or silver)
Explicitly contrast the monitor with the TV: “A monitor is used to show what the computer is doing, while a TV shows movies and shows from broadcasts.”
Use age-appropriate, clear vocabulary supported by pictures.
Biblical Integration: Read Acts 1:8 (KJV) aloud: “But ye shall receive power...” Discuss with the class how technology is a tool given to us by God’s providence to share knowledge wisely and be responsible stewards of what we have.

Group Activity: Create a simple sorting game—students receive laminated images of different devices and must put monitors and TVs in separate boxes.
Facilitate a discussion on why knowing these differences is important (e.g., using each device appropriately).
Creative Expression: Each student draws their own computer monitor, labeling buttons, size, and color based on what they learned.
Dyslexia Support: Provide printed labels with large, clear fonts and icons. Encourage students to use color pencils to reinforce memory through multisensory learning.

Formative Assessment:
- Ask individual students to identify a monitor from a set of images or physical devices.
- Oral questioning using simple prompts: “What button is this for?” or “Is this a monitor or TV? Why?”
Reflection: Students share one new thing they learned about monitors and how they can respect and use technology responsibly.
Biblical Reflection: Close with a simple prayer thanking God for the gift of knowledge and tools we use every day.

Use positive reinforcement, praise creativity, and encourage conversation to build communication skills.
For students with dyslexia, provide extra time during drawing and sorting tasks; use multisensory teaching aids.
Encourage peer collaboration to support social learning and confidence building.
Use clear, simple instructions supplemented by visuals and hands-on activities to maintain engagement.

Inquirers: Students ask questions about technology.
Thinkers: Students compare and analyze objects to differentiate monitors from televisions.
Communicators: Participate in group discussions and share discoveries.
Responsible: Reflect on biblical stewardship and ethical use of technology.

End of Lesson