Sizes, Generation, Degree of Versatility, Types and Classification of Computers Computer Studies JSS 2 First Term Lesson Notes Week 1

Lesson Plan for Computer Studies

Subject: Computer Studies
Class: JSS 2
Term: First Term
Week: 1
Age: 12 years
Topic: Revision on Classification of Computers
Sub-topic: Sizes, Generation, Degree of Versatility, Types
Duration: 40 minutes

Behavioral Objectives:

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. Identify and describe different sizes of computers.
2. Explain the various generations of computers.
3. Classify computers based on their degree of versatility.
4. List and describe different types of computers.

Keywords:

• Classification
• Sizes
• Generations
• Versatility
• Types

Set Induction:

Begin with a short video showing different types of computers (desktop, laptop, tablet). Ask students to name the computers they recognize.

Entry Behavior:

Students should have a basic understanding of what computers are and their general functions.

Learning Resources and Materials:

• Projector and screen for video
• Whiteboard and markers
• Handouts with classification charts
• Examples of different computers (if available)

Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge:

Review what students learned in the previous term about basic computer functions and parts.

Embedded Core Skills:

• Critical thinking
• Group discussion
• Presentation skills

Learning Materials:

• Reference books on computer studies
• Internet resources for additional information

Reference Books:

• Lagos State Scheme of Work
• “Introduction to Computer Science” by A. Smith

Instructional Materials:

• Charts showing the classification of computers
• A PowerPoint presentation summarizing key points

Content:

1. Sizes of Computers:
   • Supercomputers
   • Mainframe computers
   • Minicomputers
   • Microcomputers (desktops, laptops)
2. Generation of Computers:
   • First Generation (Vacuum tubes)
   • Second Generation (Transistors)
   • Third Generation (Integrated Circuits)
   • Fourth Generation (Microprocessors)
   • Fifth Generation (Artificial Intelligence)
3. Degree of Versatility:
   • General-purpose computers
   • Special-purpose computers
4. Types of Computers:
   • Personal Computers (PCs)
   • Workstations
   • Servers
   • Embedded Systems

Fill-in-the-Blank Questions (15):

1. The smallest size of a computer is called a __________. (a) supercomputer (b) microcomputer (c) mainframe (d) minicomputer
2. The __________ generation of computers used vacuum tubes. (a) first (b) second (c) third (d) fourth
3. A computer designed for specific tasks is known as a __________ computer. (a) general-purpose (b) special-purpose (c) mainframe (d) personal
4. __________ computers are used for high-performance tasks like weather forecasting. (a) Mainframe (b) Personal (c) Embedded (d) Workstation
5. The __________ generation is associated with microprocessors. (a) first (b) second (c) third (d) fourth
6. __________ is an example of a general-purpose computer. (a) calculator (b) desktop (c) thermostat (d) washing machine
7. A __________ computer is designed for high-level computations. (a) supercomputer (b) minicomputer (c) microcomputer (d) server
8. The __________ generation introduced integrated circuits. (a) first (b) second (c) third (d) fourth
9. A laptop is a type of __________ computer. (a) mainframe (b) micro (c) super (d) workstation
10. An example of a special-purpose computer is a __________. (a) laptop (b) gaming console (c) router (d) server
11. __________ computers are often used in businesses for data processing. (a) Personal (b) Super (c) Mainframe (d) Micro
12. The __________ generation of computers focuses on AI. (a) fourth (b) fifth (c) third (d) second
13. A __________ computer can perform multiple tasks simultaneously. (a) single-purpose (b) multitasking (c) dedicated (d) embedded
14. __________ is a common example of a personal computer. (a) Tablet (b) Mainframe (c) Supercomputer (d) Workstation
15. A __________ is a computer embedded in another device. (a) personal computer (b) workstation (c) server (d) embedded system

FAQs (15):

1. What is the main difference between micro and mainframe computers?
   Microcomputers are smaller and designed for individual use, while mainframes handle large-scale processing tasks.
2. What are supercomputers used for?
   Supercomputers are used for complex calculations, simulations, and data analysis.
3. Can you give an example of a special-purpose computer?
   A calculator is a special-purpose computer designed for mathematical operations.
4. What generation of computers do we currently use?
   We primarily use fourth and fifth-generation computers, which include microprocessors and AI capabilities.
5. Are laptops considered microcomputers?
   Yes, laptops are a type of microcomputer designed for portability.
6. What makes a computer ‘general-purpose’?
   A general-purpose computer can perform a variety of tasks, such as word processing, gaming, and internet browsing.
7. What is an embedded system?
   An embedded system is a computer built into other devices to perform specific functions.
8. How many generations of computers are there?
   There are generally five recognized generations of computers.
9. What type of computer is used for business data processing?
   Mainframe computers are commonly used in businesses for handling large amounts of data.
10. What are workstations typically used for?
    Workstations are high-performance computers used for tasks like graphic design and engineering simulations.
11. What is the significance of integrated circuits?
    Integrated circuits allowed for smaller, more powerful, and efficient computers compared to earlier generations.
12. What does AI stand for?
    AI stands for Artificial Intelligence, which is part of the fifth generation of computers.
13. What is a server?
    A server is a computer that provides data or services to other computers over a network.
14. What are the features of the third generation of computers?
    The third generation introduced integrated circuits, leading to smaller and faster computers.
15. Why are supercomputers important?
    They are crucial for tasks requiring immense computational power, like scientific research and climate modeling.

Presentation Steps:

1. Revising the Previous Topic: Discuss what students remember about computers.
2. Introducing the New Topic: Present the classification of computers using visuals.
3. Allowing Pupils to Contribute: Encourage students to share examples of computers they know.

Teacher’s Activities:

• Introduce the topic with a video.
• Facilitate group discussions.
• Provide clarification on key points.

Learners’ Activities:

• Watch the video and take notes.
• Participate in group discussions.
• Complete fill-in-the-blank questions and FAQs.

Assessment:

• Observe participation in discussions.
• Review completed fill-in-the-blank questions for understanding.

Evaluation Questions (10):

1. Define a microcomputer.
2. What distinguishes a supercomputer from a mainframe?
3. Name two types of special-purpose computers.
4. Describe one feature of the fourth generation of computers.
5. Why are workstations preferred for design work?
6. List one example of an embedded system.
7. What is the main function of a server?
8. Explain the significance of transistors in computing.
9. How do general-purpose computers differ from special-purpose computers?
10. What advancements are associated with the fifth generation of computers?

Conclusion:

Summarize the key points discussed, reinforce the importance of understanding computer classification, and assign a brief reading on computer evolution for the next lesson.