Year 3 – Connecting computers Unit
overview
Year 3 – Connecting computers
Unit introduction
Learners will develop their understanding of digital devices, with an initial focus on inputs, processes, and outputs. They will
also compare digital and non-digital devices. Next, learners will be introduced to computer networks, including devices that
make up a network’s infrastructure, such as wireless access points and switches. Finally, learners will discover the benefits of
connecting devices in a network.
You will need digital devices for learners to interact with during this unit. Lesson 3 requires digital devices with a painting
application. Lesson 6 includes a ‘network tour’, which involves learners identifying key parts of your school network. You will
therefore need access to your school’s server, switch, and wireless access points.
Overview of lessons
Lesson Brief overview Learning objectives
1 How does a digital This lesson introduces the concepts of input, process, and output. To explain how digital devices
device work? These concepts are fundamental to all digital devices. function
● I can explain that digital
devices accept inputs
● I can explain that digital
devices produce outputs
● I can follow a process
Page 1 Last updated: 02-07-21
Year 3 – Connecting computers Unit
overview
2 What parts make Learners will develop their knowledge of the relationship between To identify input and output
up a digital device? inputs, processes, and outputs and apply it to devices and parts devices
of devices that they will be familiar with from their everyday ● I can classify input and
surroundings. output devices
● I can describe a simple
process
● I can design a digital device
3 How do digital Learners will apply their learning from Lessons 1 and 2 by using To recognise how digital devices
devices help us? programs in conjunction with inputs and outputs on a digital can change the way that we work
device. They will create two pieces of work with the same focus, ● I can explain how I use
using digital devices to create one piece of work, and non-digital digital devices for different
tools to create the other. Learners will then compare and contrast activities
the two approaches. ● I can recognise similarities
between using digital
devices and using non-
digital tools
● I can suggest differences
between using digital
devices and using non-
digital tools
4 How am I Many digital devices are now connected to other digital devices, To explain how a computer
connected? eg computers through wires, tablets through Wi-Fi, and network can be used to share
smartphones through mobile phone networks. The benefit of information
connecting digital devices is that it allows information to be ● I can recognise different
shared between users and systems. connections
● I can explain how messages
This lesson introduces the concept of connections and moving are passed through multiple
Page 2 Last updated: 02-07-21
Year 3 – Connecting computers Unit
overview
information between connected devices. Learners will learn to connections
explain how and why computers are joined together to form ● I can discuss why we need
networks. a network switch
5 How are computers This lesson introduces key network components, including a To explore how digital devices can
connected? server and wireless access points. Learners will examine each be connected
device’s functionality and look at the benefits of networking ● I can recognise that a
computers. computer network is made
up of a number of devices
● I can demonstrate how
information can be passed
between devices
● I can explain the role of a
switch, server, and wireless
access point in a network
6 What does our Learners will further develop their understanding of computer To recognise the physical
school network look networks. They will see examples of network infrastructure in a components of a network
like? real-world setting and relate them to the activities in Lesson 5. ● I can identify how devices
in a network are connected
together
● I can identify networked
devices around me
● I can identify the benefits of
computer networks
Page 3 Last updated: 02-07-21
Year 3 – Connecting computers Unit
overview
Progression
This unit progresses learners’ knowledge and understanding of technology by focusing on digital and non-digital devices, and
introducing the concept of computers connected together as a network. Following this unit, learners will explore the internet
as a network of networks.
Please see the learning graph for this unit for more information about progression.
Curriculum links
National curriculum links
Computing
● use sequence, selection, and repetition in programs; work with variables and various forms of input and output
● understand computer networks including the internet; how they can provide multiple services, such as the World Wide
Web; and the opportunities they offer for communication and collaboration
● select, use and combine a variety of software (including internet services) on a range of digital devices to design and
create a range of programs, systems and content that accomplish given goals, including collecting, analysing,
evaluating and presenting data and information
Maths (Lesson 1)
● Number and place value: solve number problems and practical problems involving these ideas.
Art (Lesson 3)
● to improve their mastery of art and design techniques, including drawing, painting and sculpture with a range of
materials [for example, pencil, charcoal, paint, clay]
Assessment
Formative assessment opportunities are highlighted in each of the lesson plan documents. For summative assessment,
please see the summative assessment document of multiple choice questions for this unit.
Page 4 Last updated: 02-07-21
Year 3 – Connecting computers Unit
overview
Subject knowledge
You will need an understanding of digital and non-digital devices. The key difference between them is that a digital device is
capable of some processing, ie it has functions beyond being either on or off. You will also need to be familiar with the
concept of input, process, output (IPO), which underpins all digital devices. You will need to understand that devices can have
one input that leads to several outputs (eg starting a video leads to outputs from the screen and the speaker) and that many
inputs can lead to one output (eg using a mouse and a keyboard to produce a document).
You will need a basic understanding of how information (data) flows around a computer network, and how this benefits us.
You will also need to know that a network switch manages the way in which data moves around a network. You will need to
be familiar with the main parts of a school network, including the server, wireless access points, network switch, router, and
output devices such as a printer or copier.
Enhance your subject knowledge to teach this unit through the following training opportunities:
Online training courses
● Raspberry Pi Foundation online training courses
Face-to-face courses
● National Centre for Computing Education face-to-face training courses
Page 5 Last updated: 02-07-21
Year 3 – Connecting computers Unit
overview
Resources are updated regularly — the latest version is available at: ncce.io/tcc.
This resource is licensed under the Open Government Licence, version 3. For more information on this licence, see ncce.io/ogl.
Page 6 Last updated: 02-07-21
