Understanding Computer Networks and Network Topology for Primary 6

Computer Studies Primary 6 Second Term Lesson Notes – Week 4

Subject: Computer Studies
Class: Primary 6
Term: Second Term
Week: 4
Age Group: 10-12 years

Topic: Computer Networks

Sub-Topics:

1. Definition of Computer Networks
2. Types of Networks (WAN, LAN)
3. Types of Network Topology (Bus, Star, Ring, etc.)

Behavioral Objectives

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

1. Define computer networks.
2. Differentiate between WAN (Wide Area Network) and LAN (Local Area Network).
3. Explain the meaning of network topology.
4. Identify and describe the different types of network topology (Bus, Star, Ring).

Keywords:

• Network
• WAN
• LAN
• Topology
• Bus
• Star
• Ring

Set Induction

Ask students if they have seen multiple computers connected in an office, school, or cyber café. Explain how these computers communicate through networks to share information and resources.

Entry Behavior

Students should have basic knowledge of computers and how they are used for communication.

Learning Resources and Materials

• Chart showing different types of networks (WAN, LAN)
• Diagram of network topologies (Bus, Star, Ring)
• Computers or tablets (if available)

Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge

Explain how people share information using mobile phones and how similar sharing is possible between computers using networks.

Embedded Core Skills

• Communication Skills: Understanding how networks facilitate communication.
• Digital Literacy: Learning about computer connections and network types.

Content

1. Definition of Computer Networks

A computer network is a system that connects two or more computers to share information, resources, or services.

2. Types of Networks

1. Wide Area Network (WAN):
   • Definition: A network that connects computers over a large geographical area, such as cities or countries.
   • Example: The Internet is a WAN.
2. Local Area Network (LAN):
   • Definition: A network that connects computers within a small area, such as a school, office, or home.
   • Example: Computers in a school computer lab are connected using a LAN.

3. Network Topology

Definition: Network topology refers to the arrangement or layout of computers and devices in a network.

Types of Network Topology:

1. Bus Topology:
   • All devices are connected to a single central cable called a bus.
   • Advantages: Easy to set up and cost-effective.
   • Disadvantages: If the main cable fails, the entire network stops working.
2. Star Topology:
   • All devices are connected to a central device, such as a switch or hub.
   • Advantages: Easy to add new devices and troubleshoot problems.
   • Disadvantages: If the central device fails, the entire network stops working.
3. Ring Topology:
   • Devices are connected in a circular arrangement, forming a ring.
   • Advantages: Data travels in one direction, reducing collisions.
   • Disadvantages: If one device fails, the entire network can stop working.

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

1. A system that connects two or more computers to share information is called a _______.
   a) Printer
   b) Network
   c) Keyboard
   Answer: b) Network
2. A _______ connects computers over a large geographical area.
   a) LAN
   b) WAN
   c) Router
   Answer: b) WAN
3. A network used within a small area, such as an office, is called a _______.
   a) WAN
   b) Bus
   c) LAN
   Answer: c) LAN
4. The _______ topology connects all devices to a central hub or switch.
   a) Star
   b) Ring
   c) Bus
   Answer: a) Star
5. In a _______ topology, all devices are connected in a circular arrangement.
   a) Star
   b) Bus
   c) Ring
   Answer: c) Ring
6. The main cable used in a bus topology is called a _______.
   a) Hub
   b) Switch
   c) Bus
   Answer: c) Bus
7. The _______ topology is cost-effective and easy to set up.
   a) Bus
   b) Star
   c) Ring
   Answer: a) Bus
8. The Internet is an example of a _______.
   a) LAN
   b) WAN
   c) Topology
   Answer: b) WAN
9. Devices connected in a school computer lab form a _______.
   a) WAN
   b) LAN
   c) Star
   Answer: b) LAN
10. In a _______ topology, data travels in one direction to reduce collisions.
    a) Star
    b) Ring
    c) Bus
    Answer: b) Ring

Class Activity Discussion

FAQs:

1. What is a computer network?
   • Answer: A computer network is a system that connects two or more computers to share information, resources, or services.
2. What is the full meaning of WAN and LAN?
   • Answer: WAN stands for Wide Area Network, and LAN stands for Local Area Network.
3. What is the difference between WAN and LAN?
   • Answer: WAN connects computers over a large geographical area, while LAN connects computers within a small area like a school or office.
4. What is network topology?
   • Answer: Network topology is the arrangement or layout of devices in a computer network.
5. Name three types of network topology.
   • Answer: Bus, Star, and Ring topologies.
6. What is the main feature of a bus topology?
   • Answer: All devices are connected to a single central cable called a bus.
7. What is the main feature of a star topology?
   • Answer: All devices are connected to a central hub or switch.
8. What happens if the main cable fails in a bus topology?
   • Answer: The entire network stops working.
9. Which topology is the easiest to troubleshoot?
   • Answer: Star topology.
10. What is the advantage of a ring topology?
    • Answer: Data travels in one direction, reducing collisions.

Teacher’s Activity:

• Use a diagram to explain the types of networks and network topology.
• Demonstrate how devices are connected in Bus, Star, and Ring topologies using visual aids.

Learner’s Activity:

• Identify the types of networks and topologies from a provided diagram.
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each topology.

Assessment (Short-Answer Questions):

1. Define a computer network.
2. Explain the difference between WAN and LAN.
3. List three types of network topology.
4. Which topology connects all devices to a central hub?
5. What happens if a device fails in a ring topology?

Conclusion

The teacher will summarize the types of networks and topologies discussed and review the key points. Feedback will be given on students’ contributions and understanding.