Computer Networks SS 1 Lesson Plan

LESSON PLAN

Subject	Digital Technologies
Class	SSS 1
Term	Second Term
Week	1
Topic	Computer Networks
Duration	80 Minutes (Double Period)
Date	________________

1. Behavioural Objectives

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

1. Define a computer network.
2. Explain the uses and benefits of computer networks.
3. Identify and distinguish between PAN, LAN, MAN and WAN.
4. Describe the functions of a network interface card (NIC), switch, router, server and transmission media.
5. Differentiate between wired and wireless networks.
6. Describe a simple computer network arrangement in a school laboratory.

2. Previous Knowledge

Students have basic knowledge of computers and other digital devices, including their uses in homes, schools and offices.

3. Instructional Materials

• Desktop computers or laptops
• Smartphones or tablets
• Network switch and router, where available
• Ethernet cable
• Pictures or diagrams showing PAN, LAN, MAN and WAN
• Whiteboard and markers

4. Teaching Methods

Discussion, explanation, demonstration, questioning and practical observation.

5. Lesson Presentation

Stage / Time	Teacher's Activities	Students' Activities
Introduction 10 minutes	Asks students whether they have shared files through Bluetooth, connected a phone to Wi-Fi or used a school computer laboratory. Uses their responses to introduce computer networks.	Respond to questions and describe experiences involving connected digital devices.
Step 1: Meaning and Uses 10 minutes	Defines a computer network and explains communication, file sharing, resource sharing, collaboration and shared Internet access.	Define a computer network in their own words and identify its benefits.
Step 2: Types of Networks 20 minutes	Explains PAN, LAN, MAN and WAN according to their coverage areas. Gives examples, including Bluetooth-connected personal devices, school networks, city-wide networks and networks spanning countries.	Identify each network type, state its coverage and give suitable examples.
Step 3: Network Components 20 minutes	Explains the functions of end devices, NICs, switches, routers, transmission media, servers and network software or protocols. Emphasises that a switch connects devices within a network, while a router connects different networks.	Identify the components and explain their functions. Compare the roles of a NIC, switch and router.
Step 4: Wired and Wireless Networks 10 minutes	Explains wired connections using cables and wireless connections using radio signals, with examples such as Ethernet and Wi-Fi.	State differences between wired and wireless networks and identify examples.
Evaluation and Conclusion 10 minutes	Asks oral questions, corrects misconceptions and summarises the main points of the lesson.	Answer questions, identify network components and summarise what they have learnt.

6. Evaluation Questions

1. What is a computer network?
2. State three benefits of computer networks.
3. Explain the differences between PAN, LAN, MAN and WAN.
4. State two functions of a network switch and a router.
5. What is the function of a network interface card?
6. Differentiate between wired and wireless networks.

7. Assignment

1. Draw a table comparing PAN, LAN, MAN and WAN by meaning, coverage and example.
2. List six components of a computer network and state the function of each.
3. Draw a simple diagram showing computers connected to a switch, router and Internet connection.

8. Reference

CMPNOTE SSS 1 Digital Technologies Lesson Note: Computer Networks — Second Term, Week 1.

Teacher's Signature: ____________________