Computer Basics & Intro to Coding

gregory banks

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Computer Basics & Intro to Coding

Understand computer parts & coding

This lesson introduces 8th-grade students to the basic parts of a computer and the fundamentals of coding. Through engaging activities and collaborative learning, students will explore how computers work and begin to understand coding concepts. This lesson is crucial for building foundational knowledge in technology, which is essential for future academic and career opportunities.

Audience

8th Grade Middle School

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Game-Based Learning, Collaborative Learning, Inquiry-Based Learning

Materials

Computer access, Worksheet, Discussion questions, Activity instructions, Exit ticket, Quiz, and Answer key

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

Begin with a warm-up activity: Ask students to list any parts of a computer they know.
Briefly discuss their responses and introduce the lesson's objectives: Understand the basic parts of a computer and the fundamentals of coding.

Step 2

Video Viewing

5 mins

Show a short video on the basic parts of a computer (no specific video found, use a general resource).
Ask students to note down any new parts they learn about.

Step 3

Collaborative Activity

10 mins

Divide students into small groups.
Provide each group with a set of computer parts (real or images) such as CPU, monitor, keyboard, and mouse, and ask them to match each part with its function.
Encourage students to discuss and inquire about any unfamiliar parts.

Step 4

Coding Activity

5 mins

Introduce students to a simple coding platform like Scratch or Code.org.
Guide them through creating a basic program, such as making a character move or change color.
Allow students to experiment with the code and see the immediate effects of their changes.

Step 5

Worksheet Completion

5 mins

Distribute the worksheet with questions about computer parts and basic coding concepts.
Allow students to work individually or in pairs to complete it.

Step 6

Discussion

3 mins

Facilitate a class discussion using prepared questions to deepen understanding of computer parts and their functions.

Step 7

Exit Ticket

2 mins

Ask students to write one thing they learned and one question they still have about computers or coding.

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Discussion

Computer Parts Discussion

A guided discussion to help students explore and understand the functions of different computer parts.

What are the main parts of a computer you learned about today?

Encourage students to recall parts from the video and activity.

How do these parts work together to make a computer function?

Discuss the role of each part and how they interact.

Worksheet

Computer Parts Worksheet

A worksheet to reinforce students' understanding of computer parts and basic coding concepts.

List three parts of a computer and their functions.

Think about the parts discussed in the video and activity.

What is coding, and why is it important?

Consider how coding is used to give instructions to a computer.

Quiz

Computer Parts Quiz

Answer Key

Computer Parts Answer Key

The answer key for the computer parts quiz and worksheet, providing correct answers and explanations.

Which part of the computer is responsible for processing data?

CPU
The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is known as the brain of the computer, responsible for processing instructions.

What is the main function of the keyboard?

Input data
The keyboard is an input device used to enter data into the computer.

Worksheet

Basic Coding Worksheet

A worksheet to introduce students to basic coding concepts and tasks using platforms like Scratch or Code.org.

Define coding in your own words.

Think about how coding is used to create programs.

Why is coding an important skill to learn?

Consider the role of coding in technology and innovation.

List three basic commands or functions you used in the coding activity.

Reflect on the actions you performed in Scratch or Code.org.