Foundation of Computer Studies

Evolution and Development of Computers - Early computing devices

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

- Define the term computing device
- Identify ancient computing tools such as Abacus, Napier's Bones and Pascaline
- Relate early computing tools to modern calculators used in shops and schools

- Use print or digital resources to search for information on ancient computing devices
- Watch videos showing how the Abacus was used for calculations
- Discuss how early tools like Abacus influenced modern calculators

How did ancient computing devices influence modern computers?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 1
- Digital resources
- Internet access

- Oral questions - Observation - Written assignments

Foundation of Computer Studies

Evolution and Development of Computers - Mechanical computing devices
Evolution and Development of Computers - Principal technologies

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

- Describe mechanical computing devices such as Slide Rule, Difference Engine and Analytical Engine
- Differentiate between Difference Engine and Analytical Engine
- Connect mechanical computing principles to modern automated systems like ATMs

- Search for information on Pascaline, Slide Rule and Jacquard Loom
- Discuss how Babbage's Difference Engine and Analytical Engine worked
- Create a simple model of an Abacus using locally available materials

Why is Charles Babbage considered the father of modern computers?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 4
- Cardboard, beads and strings for Abacus model
- Reference materials
- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 6
- Charts showing vacuum tubes and transistors
- Digital devices

- Observation schedules - Oral questions - Project assessment

Foundation of Computer Studies

Evolution and Development of Computers - Computer generations
Evolution and Development of Computers - Technological advancements

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

- Classify computers into first, second, third, fourth and fifth generations
- Match principal technologies to their respective generations
- Relate computer generations to devices used at home such as laptops, tablets and smartphones

- Discuss characteristics of each computer generation
- Match technologies (vacuum tubes, transistors, ICs, microprocessors) to generations
- Compare features of different generation computers

How have computers evolved over generations?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 9
- Charts showing computer generations
- Photos of different generation computers
- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 11
- Digital devices with AI features
- Internet access

- Rating scales - Written assignments - Oral questions

Foundation of Computer Studies

Computer Organisation and Architecture - Architecture concepts
Computer Organisation and Architecture - Functional elements

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

- Define computer organisation and architecture
- Describe the von Neumann architecture
- Relate computer architecture to how the human brain processes information

- Search for information on functional organisation of computers
- Watch videos explaining von Neumann architecture
- Discuss components: input, processing, output and storage

What is the role of computer architecture in computer performance?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 16
- Charts showing computer architecture
- Digital resources
- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 18
- Diagrams of computer components
- Manila papers and markers

- Oral questions - Written tests - Observation

Foundation of Computer Studies

Computer Organisation and Architecture - RISC and CISC
Computer Organisation and Architecture - Fetch-execute cycle

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

- Differentiate between RISC and CISC architectures
- Explain instruction sets used by processors
- Link processor types to devices like smartphones (RISC) and desktop computers (CISC)

- Brainstorm differences between RISC and CISC
- Compare instruction set characteristics
- Discuss which devices use RISC vs CISC processors

How do instruction sets affect computer performance?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 20
- Reference materials
- Internet access
- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 22
- Video resources
- Charts and diagrams

- Written tests - Oral questions - Rating scales

Foundation of Computer Studies

Computer Organisation and Architecture - Modelling

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

- Create a model of computer architecture using locally available materials
- Label structural elements on the model
- Connect model building skills to creating prototypes in engineering and design

- Use cardboard, manila papers and glue to create a motherboard model
- Model input, output and storage devices
- Present completed models to peers

Why is understanding computer architecture important?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 27
- Cardboard, scissors, glue
- Manila papers, markers

- Project assessment - Rubrics - Peer evaluation

Foundation of Computer Studies

Input/Output Devices - Types of input devices

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

- Define input devices and their functions
- Classify input devices into keying, pointing and scanning devices
- Relate input devices to everyday tools like TV remotes and game controllers

- Discuss types of input devices: keying, pointing, scanning and voice input
- Identify input devices in the computer laboratory
- Match input devices to their functions

Why are input devices important in a computer?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 29
- Keyboard, mouse, scanner
- Charts showing input devices

- Oral questions - Observation - Checklists

Foundation of Computer Studies

Input/Output Devices - Keying and pointing devices

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

- Describe keying devices including standard keyboard, keypad and Braille keyboard
- Explain pointing devices such as mouse, touchpad, joystick and stylus
- Connect keyboard layouts to typing in different languages

- Identify different types of keyboards: QWERTY, ergonomic and Braille
- Demonstrate use of pointing devices
- Compare wired and wireless input devices

How do keying and pointing devices enhance computer use?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 30
- Different types of keyboards
- Mouse, touchpad, joystick

- Practical assessment - Observation schedules - Oral questions

Foundation of Computer Studies

Input/Output Devices - Scanning and imaging devices

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

- Describe scanning devices including flatbed scanner, QR code reader and MICR
- Explain digital cameras and their features
- Link QR scanners to mobile payment systems like M-PESA

- Use print or digital resources to search for scanning devices
- Demonstrate scanning a document
- Create a QR code and share information

What are the technological advancements in input devices?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 35
- Flatbed scanner
- Smartphones with QR scanner

- Practical assessment - Observation - Written assignments

Foundation of Computer Studies

Input/Output Devices - Voice and sensor-based input

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

- Explain voice input devices and speech recognition technology
- Describe sensor-based input including motion and proximity sensors
- Relate voice assistants to smartphone features like Siri and Google Assistant

- Watch videos on voice recognition technology
- Discuss sensor-based inputs: motion, weather and proximity sensors
- Demonstrate voice commands on smartphones

How do sensors enhance device interaction?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 37
- Microphones
- Smartphones with voice assistants

- Oral questions - Demonstration - Observation

Foundation of Computer Studies

Input/Output Devices - Types of output devices

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

- Define output devices and their functions
- Classify output devices into visual, audio and print categories
- Connect display technology to TVs and digital billboards seen in towns

- Discuss types of output devices: monitors, speakers, printers and projectors
- Visit a computer user environment to identify output devices
- Match output devices to their technologies

How do output devices present information?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 38
- Monitor, speakers, printer
- Charts showing output devices

- Observation - Oral questions - Written tests

Foundation of Computer Studies

Input/Output Devices - Display technologies

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

- Differentiate between CRT, LCD, LED and Plasma display technologies
- Compare advantages and disadvantages of different display types
- Relate display technology to smart TVs and computer monitors at home

- Compare CRT, LCD, LED and Plasma monitors
- Discuss resolution, refresh rate and colour quality
- Identify display technologies in various devices

What factors determine display quality?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 38
- Different types of monitors
- Reference materials

- Written tests - Oral questions - Comparison charts

Foundation of Computer Studies

Input/Output Devices - Printers and plotters

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

- Classify printers into impact and non-impact types
- Describe inkjet, laser, thermal and 3D printers
- Link printer usage to printing receipts at supermarkets and boarding passes at airports

- Discuss impact printers: dot matrix and non-impact: inkjet, laser, thermal
- Compare printer technologies and their applications
- Demonstrate printing a document

How do different printers produce output?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 41
- Inkjet and laser printers
- Sample printouts

- Practical assessment - Observation - Oral questions

Foundation of Computer Studies

Input/Output Devices - Audio output and projectors

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

- Explain audio output devices including speakers and headphones
- Describe projector types: LCD, LED, DLP and laser
- Connect projector use to classroom presentations and cinema experiences

- Discuss speakers, headphones and sound systems
- Compare projector technologies and their uses
- Demonstrate using a projector for presentations

What factors should be considered when selecting audio devices?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 40
- Speakers, headphones
- Digital projector

- Practical assessment - Observation - Oral questions

Foundation of Computer Studies

Input/Output Devices - Criteria for selecting I/O devices

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

- Explain factors for selecting input devices: purpose, compatibility and ergonomics
- Describe criteria for selecting output devices: resolution, speed and cost
- Apply selection criteria when shopping for computer accessories

- Brainstorm factors for selecting input and output devices
- Create a checklist for device selection
- Compare devices based on purpose, cost and compatibility

What factors influence the choice of I/O devices?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 45
- Various I/O devices
- Specification sheets

- Written assignments - Oral questions - Checklists

Foundation of Computer Studies

Input/Output Devices - Using I/O devices

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

- Use input devices to enter data into a computer
- Use output devices to display and print information
- Apply I/O skills to create documents and presentations for school work

- Use keyboard and mouse to create a spreadsheet
- Print documents using different printer settings
- Scan documents and save in digital format

How are I/O devices used in daily computing tasks?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 50
- Computer with keyboard and mouse
- Printer, scanner

- Practical assessment - Observation schedules - Portfolios

Foundation of Computer Studies

Computer Storage - Types of storage

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

- Define computer storage and its purpose
- Classify storage into primary and secondary categories
- Relate storage devices to phone memory and USB drives used to store music and photos

- Brainstorm types of storage devices
- Discuss differences between primary and secondary storage
- Identify storage devices in a computer user environment

How is data accessed from computer storage?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 54
- Flash disks, memory cards
- Hard disk samples

- Oral questions - Observation - Written tests

Foundation of Computer Studies

Computer Storage - RAM and ROM

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

- Differentiate between RAM and ROM
- Explain types of RAM: SRAM and DRAM
- Connect RAM to why computers slow down when running many programs simultaneously

- Use digital resources to search for types of primary memory
- Compare characteristics of RAM and ROM
- Identify RAM modules on a motherboard

What is the difference between RAM and ROM?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 57
- RAM modules
- Motherboard with ROM chips

- Written tests - Oral questions - Observation

Foundation of Computer Studies

Computer Storage - Secondary storage devices

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

- Describe secondary storage: HDD, SSD, optical disks and flash memory
- Compare magnetic, optical and solid-state storage
- Link storage choices to backing up school assignments and family photos

- Discuss hard disk drives, solid-state drives and optical storage
- Compare advantages and disadvantages of different storage types
- Examine internal parts of a hard disk

How do different storage technologies work?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 61
- HDD, SSD samples
- CD/DVD discs

- Observation - Written assignments - Oral questions

Foundation of Computer Studies

Computer Storage - Cloud and remote storage

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

- Explain remote storage and cloud services
- Debate benefits of cloud storage versus local storage
- Apply cloud storage for sharing documents with classmates via Google Drive or OneDrive

- Brainstorm meaning of remote storage
- Discuss cloud services: Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud
- Demonstrate saving and retrieving files from cloud storage

What are the benefits of cloud storage?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 55
- Internet access
- Cloud storage accounts

- Practical assessment - Oral questions - Debate evaluation

Foundation of Computer Studies

Computer Storage - Selecting and using storage devices

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

- Explain criteria for selecting storage devices: capacity, speed, portability and cost
- Save and retrieve data from storage devices
- Make informed choices when buying flash disks or memory cards for personal use

- Discuss factors for selecting computer storage
- Demonstrate reading and writing data to flash disks
- Practice backing up files to external storage

What factors determine choice of storage device?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 68
- Flash disks, memory cards
- External hard drives

- Practical assessment - Observation - Written tests

Foundation of Computer Studies

Central Processing Unit - Structural elements

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

- Identify structural elements of the CPU: ALU, Control Unit and registers
- Describe functions of CPU components
- Relate the CPU to the human brain as the control centre of the body

- Brainstorm structural elements of the CPU
- Watch video simulation of CPU components
- Draw diagrams showing CPU structure

What are the technological advancements in CPU development?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 74
- CPU samples
- Motherboard with CPU

- Oral questions - Diagrams - Observation

Foundation of Computer Studies

Central Processing Unit - Functions of CPU elements

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

- Explain functions of ALU, Control Unit and registers
- Describe the fetch-decode-execute cycle in detail
- Connect CPU operations to how a calculator performs arithmetic

- Discuss functions of ALU, Control Unit and registers
- Draw diagrams of fetch-decode-execute cycle
- Simulate CPU operations through role play

How does the CPU relate to the human brain?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 76
- Charts showing CPU functions
- Video resources

- Written tests - Oral questions - Role play assessment

Foundation of Computer Studies

Central Processing Unit - Cache memory and buses

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

- Explain cache memory levels: L1, L2 and L3
- Describe system buses: data bus, address bus and control bus
- Relate cache memory to quick-access drawers where you keep frequently used items

- Discuss cache memory and its role in performance
- Explain types and functions of system buses
- Draw diagrams showing bus connections

How does cache memory improve computer speed?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 77
- Diagrams of system buses
- Reference materials

- Written tests - Oral questions - Diagram assessment

Foundation of Computer Studies

Central Processing Unit - Types of CPUs

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

- Compare CPU types based on generations and instruction sets
- Differentiate between single-core and multi-core processors
- Link processor choices to smartphone performance when playing games or using apps

- Compare types of CPU by instruction set: RISC vs CISC
- Discuss CPU cores: single, dual, quad and octa-core
- Research current processor brands: Intel and AMD

What factors should be considered when selecting a CPU?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 78
- CPU specification sheets
- Internet access

- Written tests - Research presentations - Oral questions

Foundation of Computer Studies

Central Processing Unit - Role of CPU in computing

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

- Explain the role of CPU in processing data and executing instructions
- Discuss CPU performance factors: clock speed, cores and cache
- Connect CPU importance to why faster computers cost more

- Brainstorm roles of CPU in computing
- Discuss how CPU manages tasks and resources
- Develop content to educate peers on CPU importance

Why is the CPU called the brain of the computer?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 82
- Digital devices
- Task Manager demonstration

- Oral presentations - Written tests - Peer teaching assessment

Foundation of Computer Studies

Operating Systems - Basic concepts

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

- Define operating system and give examples
- Explain the two main components: kernel and shell
- Relate OS to how a manager coordinates workers in an office

- Brainstorm meaning of operating system
- Discuss examples: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
- Search for information on kernel and shell functions

What is the relationship between OS and computer hardware?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 84
- Computers with different OS
- Internet access

- Oral questions - Written tests - Observation

Foundation of Computer Studies

Operating Systems - Functions of OS

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

- Explain functions: resource management, I/O handling and file management
- Describe user interface management and security functions
- Link OS functions to how phones manage apps, storage and security

- Use digital resources to search for OS functions
- Discuss booting, memory management and process scheduling
- Demonstrate OS handling of input/output devices

How does an operating system communicate with hardware?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 85
- Digital devices
- Reference materials

- Written tests - Oral questions - Demonstration

Foundation of Computer Studies

Operating Systems - Classification by tasks and users

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

- Differentiate single-tasking and multitasking operating systems
- Distinguish between single-user and multi-user OS
- Connect multitasking OS to using multiple apps simultaneously on a phone

- Discuss classification of OS based on tasks and users
- Compare features of single-user vs multi-user systems
- Visit a computer environment to identify OS types

What types of operating systems exist based on user needs?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 88
- Different computers with various OS
- Charts

- Written tests - Oral questions - Observation

Foundation of Computer Studies

Operating Systems - Classification by interface

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

- Differentiate CLI, GUI and menu-driven interfaces
- Compare advantages of different interface types
- Relate GUI to smartphone touchscreens and ATM menu systems

- Discuss and classify OS by interface: CLI, GUI, menu-driven
- Compare command line with graphical interfaces
- Demonstrate using different interface types

How do different user interfaces affect computer use?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 89
- Computers with CLI and GUI
- Screenshots of interfaces

- Practical assessment - Oral questions - Written tests

Foundation of Computer Studies

Operating Systems - Factors for choosing an OS

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

- Explain factors for selecting an OS: compatibility, cost and hardware requirements
- Select appropriate OS for given situations
- Apply selection criteria when advising family on which phone OS to buy

- Discuss factors for choosing an operating system
- Compare minimum system requirements for different OS
- Select appropriate OS for various scenarios

What determines the choice of an operating system?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 93
- System requirement documents
- Internet access

- Written assignments - Oral questions - Case study analysis

Foundation of Computer Studies

Operating Systems - Installing an OS

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

- Describe the procedure for installing an operating system
- Explain disk partitioning and system configuration
- Connect OS installation to setting up a new phone or computer

- Discuss steps for installing Windows or Linux
- Watch videos demonstrating OS installation
- Discuss BIOS settings and boot configuration

What are the steps for installing an operating system?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 94
- Installation media
- Video resources

- Observation - Oral questions - Written tests

Foundation of Computer Studies

Operating Systems - Practical installation

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

- Install an operating system in a virtual environment
- Configure basic system settings after installation
- Troubleshoot common installation errors like missing drivers

- Install OS in a virtual machine or guided environment
- Configure user accounts and basic settings
- Document the installation process

How do you troubleshoot OS installation errors?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 96
- Virtual machine software
- Installation media

- Practical assessment - Observation schedules - Portfolios

Foundation of Computer Studies

Operating Systems - File management

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

- Create, rename and delete files and folders
- Organise files using folder structures
- Apply file management skills to organise school assignments and personal documents

- Use File Explorer to create and manage folders
- Demonstrate creating, renaming and deleting files
- Practice organising files into logical folder structures

How does an operating system organise files?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 98
- Computers with Windows
- Sample files for practice

- Practical assessment - Observation - Portfolios

Foundation of Computer Studies

Operating Systems - File operations

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

- Copy, move and sort files and folders
- Backup files to external storage
- Use file operations to backup important assignments before exams

- Demonstrate copying and moving files between locations
- Practice sorting files by name, date and size
- Backup files to flash disk or cloud storage

Why is backing up files important?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 100
- Computers with storage
- Flash disks

- Practical assessment - Observation - Written tests

Foundation of Computer Studies

Operating Systems - Importance of OS

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

- Explain the importance of OS in resource management and security
- Discuss how OS enables user interaction with hardware
- Recognise that without an OS, devices like phones and computers would not function

- Share experiences on importance of OS during club activities
- Discuss how OS manages hardware resources
- Create content explaining OS importance to community members

Why is an operating system essential in computing?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 104
- Digital devices
- Reference materials

- Oral presentations - Written tests - Peer evaluation

Foundation of Computer Studies

Computer Setup - Ports and interface cables

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

- Identify types of ports: USB, HDMI, Ethernet and audio ports
- Describe interface cables: USB-A, USB-C, HDMI and VGA
- Relate port types to connecting phones to chargers and laptops to monitors

- Search for information on different ports and cables
- Identify ports on the front and back of system units
- Match ports to their corresponding cables

How are computers interfaced with external devices?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 105
- System unit with visible ports
- Various interface cables

- Observation - Oral questions - Matching exercises

Foundation of Computer Studies

Computer Setup - Connecting cables to ports

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

- Match cables to their corresponding ports
- Connect devices to a computer using appropriate cables
- Apply cable connection skills when setting up home entertainment systems

- Take turns matching ports to corresponding cables
- Practice connecting USB, HDMI and Ethernet cables
- Compare old interfaces (VGA, serial) with modern ones (USB-C, HDMI)

Why is it important to match cables to correct ports?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 110
- Various cables and ports
- Computers for practice

- Practical assessment - Observation - Checklists

Foundation of Computer Studies

Computer Setup - Setting up a computer

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

- Describe the procedure for setting up a desktop computer
- Connect all components: monitor, keyboard, mouse and power
- Apply setup skills when helping family members configure new computers

- Discuss steps for setting up a computer
- Connect monitor, keyboard and mouse to system unit
- Power on and test the computer setup

What are the steps for setting up a computer?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 111
- Desktop computer components
- Power cables and UPS

- Practical assessment - Observation schedules - Checklists

Foundation of Computer Studies

Computer Setup - Safety precautions
Computer Setup - Importance of safety

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

- Explain safety precautions when setting up a computer
- Describe handling procedures for computer components
- Apply safety measures to prevent electric shocks and equipment damage at home

- Discuss safety rules: disconnect power, avoid static electricity
- Practice proper handling of computer components
- Identify potential hazards in computer setup

Why is it important to observe safety when setting up computers?

- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 112
- Anti-static wrist straps
- Safety guidelines
- Modern Technology Bk 10 pg. 114
- Safety posters
- Reference materials

- Oral questions - Observation - Written tests