Section Links
This section of the course is about different types of computers that are available to buy and what they might be used for. There is information and tasks about features and specifications of the different computers that help them to be more appropriate for some jobs than others.
To be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different types of computers in businesses
- Demonstrate an understanding of the features of different types of computers
Outcomes:
To be able to:
- Correctly identify different computer systems based on their name and features
- Correctly select the most appropriate computer systems for particular tasks based on their features
Success Criteria:
Distinction/Distinction* Students:
Must be able to demonstrate a thorough understanding of different computer systems, their features and the appropriate use for each different type. The card sort activity will be completed correctly and also the type of computer for the scenarios covered will be correctly identified, giving valid reasons for the choice.
Merit/Pass Students:
Must be able to demonstrate a good understanding of different computer systems, having some knowledge of their features and being able to identify uses for each type. The card sort activity will have been completed and will be mostly correct. The correct type of computer for each scenario will be identified although the reasons for the choice may be unclear.
Students working towards a Level 2 Pass:
Must be able to show that you know different types of computer systems and have some ideas of what they can be used for and why. The card sort activity will be completed (with support) and the correct computer type for each scenario will be identified although the reasons for the choice may be unclear or incorrect.
Activities & Information
The following links can be used as a part of activities in lessons and as part of revision:
Types of Computers - Card Sort Activity
Types of Computers - Choosing the right one - Scenarios
Types of Computers - What software and what are they used for? (Information Only)
Types of Computers - Comparison Table (Information Only)
More Information/Extension Activities
Use the following link to find out more about each type of computer:
Answer the questions on the following worksheet about different types of computer:
Card Sort Activity: This can be differentiated in various ways to give students some of the information to help if required. The sheet can be printed for the students to stick the parts to - if this is the case, highlight the text in the table and set its colour to white (effectively making it disappear) before printing. Click HERE to access the Card Sort.
Choosing the right one: Can be differentiated both by the task and by the outcome. Stronger students should complete more of the scenarios and give deeper explanations of the choices they have made. Their explanations will refer to the needs of the user and how the features of the system they have chosen meet them. Clicking HERE will access the teacher notes for this activity.
Teach-ICT: Clicking HERE links to the Teach-ICT web site section on Types of Computer, with ideas for additional activities, starters and plenaries.
BBC Bitesize: Clicking HERE links to the GCSE Bitesize section on Types of Computer.