️ INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (BST) – WEEK 1 LESSON NOTE
Topic: What is a Computer?
Lesson Overview
| Subject: | Information Technology (BST) |
|---|---|
| Class: | Primary 1 |
| Term: | First Term |
| Week: | 1 |
| Age: | 5 – 6 years |
| Duration: | 40 minutes |
| Sub-topic: | Meaning, Parts, and Uses of a Computer |
Behavioural Objectives
By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
- Define what a computer is.
- Identify the three main parts of a computer.
- Mention at least four uses of a computer.
- Recognize computer devices by sight.
- Differentiate between a computer and other electronic devices.
Keywords and Meanings
| Keyword | Meaning (Child-Friendly) |
|---|---|
| Computer | A machine that helps us do work faster. |
| Data | Information we put into the computer. |
| Information | The result or answer the computer gives. |
| Keyboard | The part we use to type. |
| Monitor | The part we use to see pictures or words. |
| Mouse | The part we move to click on things. |
| CPU | The brain of the computer. |
| Electronic | Something that uses electricity. |
| Input | Things we put into the computer. |
| Output | Things the computer gives back to us. |
Set Induction (Story to Capture Attention)
The teacher begins by saying:
“Children, imagine you have a friend who never forgets your homework, helps you count faster than your calculator, and even plays songs for you. Would you like that kind of friend?”
(Pupils shout: Yes!)
“That’s what a computer does. It’s a smart machine that helps people work, learn, and play easily.”
The teacher then shows a real computer or picture and asks,
“Who has seen this before? What do you think it does?”
Entry Behaviour
Pupils are familiar with devices like televisions, phones, and radios. They can recognize that these devices need electricity to work.
Learning Resources and Materials
- Real or toy computer set (CPU, monitor, keyboard, mouse).
- Flashcards showing different types of computers.
- Picture charts of gadgets.
- A short video or slideshow of computer uses.
Building Background / Connection to Prior Knowledge
The teacher reminds pupils that they’ve seen machines at home like televisions and radios that help people do work.
Then connects: “A computer is also a machine, but it can do many things faster than us.”
Embedded Core Skills
- Communication skills – responding to teacher’s questions.
- Critical thinking – identifying differences between computers and other machines.
- Digital literacy – recognizing computer parts.
- Collaboration – group discussions.
- Observation – identifying items from visuals.
Learning Materials
- Lagos State Unified Scheme of Work (Basic Science & Technology)
- Oxford Primary Science Textbook
- Computer Studies for Basic Schools (Macmillan)
Instructional Materials
- Laptop or desktop computer (if available)
- Charts or flashcards showing: monitor, mouse, keyboard, CPU
- Whiteboard and marker
CONTENT DEVELOPMENT
Meaning of a Computer
- A computer is an electronic machine that accepts data (information), processes it, and gives out results.
- It helps us to do our work faster and easier.
- It can show pictures, videos, sounds, and games.
- It can be used for learning, counting, writing, and communication.
Parts of a Computer
- Monitor: The screen where we see what we are doing.
- Keyboard: Used to type letters and numbers.
- Mouse: Helps us to move and click on things.
- CPU (Central Processing Unit): The brain of the computer.
- Speaker: Used to hear sounds from the computer.
Examples of Computers
- Laptop
- Desktop
- Tablet
- ATM machine
- Smartphone
- Smart TV
- Cash register
- Game console
- POS machine
- Calculator
Uses of Computers
- To learn in school.
- To play games.
- To write and draw.
- To count and calculate.
- To send messages.
- To watch videos and movies.
- To type letters.
- To do research.
- To store information.
- To print documents.
CLASS ACTIVITY DISCUSSION (FAQs)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. What is a computer? | A machine that helps us work faster. |
| 2. Can a computer think like humans? | No, it only follows instructions. |
| 3. What part shows pictures? | The monitor. |
| 4. What part do we type with? | The keyboard. |
| 5. What part moves the arrow? | The mouse. |
| 6. What is the brain of the computer? | The CPU. |
| 7. Can computers play music? | Yes. |
| 8. Where can we find computers? | In homes, schools, banks, and offices. |
| 9. Who uses computers? | Teachers, doctors, bankers, and students. |
| 10. Is a phone a computer? | Yes, it is a small computer. |
EVALUATION QUESTIONS
A. Fill-in-the-Blank Questions
Choose the correct answer (a, b, or c).
- A computer is an __________ machine.
(a) electronic (b) manual (c) wooden - Computers can __________ information.
(a) sing (b) process (c) jump - The brain of the computer is called the __________.
(a) monitor (b) CPU (c) keyboard - The part we use to type letters is called the __________.
(a) keyboard (b) mouse (c) CPU - We can watch pictures on the __________.
(a) monitor (b) mouse (c) speaker - A computer helps people to __________.
(a) play (b) work faster (c) sleep - The part used for sound is the __________.
(a) speaker (b) mouse (c) CPU - We can draw pictures using a __________.
(a) keyboard (b) computer (c) bag - Computers are used in __________.
(a) only schools (b) homes, offices, and schools (c) markets only - A smartphone is a type of __________.
(a) toy (b) computer (c) car
B. Short Answer Questions
- Define a computer.
- Mention two uses of a computer.
- Name three parts of a computer.
- Which part helps us to type?
- What part shows what we do?
- Who can use a computer?
- Mention one place you can find a computer.
- What does CPU mean?
- Is a computer faster than a human?
- Mention one thing we can do with a computer.
Teacher’s Activities
- Display a real computer or picture.
- Explain each part clearly.
- Ask pupils to identify the parts.
- Guide pupils to pronounce the word computer.
- Allow pupils to match computer parts with their names.
- Play a short computer-related rhyme or song.
- Summarize key points.
- Conduct oral questioning.
Learners’ Activities
- Listen and observe.
- Repeat keywords after the teacher.
- Identify parts of the computer.
- Ask and answer questions.
- Match computer parts to their names.
Assessment
Teacher checks pupils’ exercise books and oral answers to ensure understanding.
Internal Links
- 21st Century Learning Activities | Skills Beyond the Classroom
- A place I would like to visit composition for Primary 5
- Meaning and Types of Citizenship Primary 1 Vocational Aptitude
External Links
Conclusion
The teacher revises the topic, corrects errors, and praises pupils for participation.
“Now we know a computer is a smart electronic friend that helps us work faster!”