Year 5

Computing systems and networks - systems and searching

In this unit, learners develop their understanding of computer systems and how information is transferred between systems and devices. Learners consider small-scale systems as well as large-scale systems. They explain the input, output, and process aspects of a variety of different real-world systems. Learners discover how information is found on the World Wide Web, through learning how search engines work (including how they select and rank results) and what influences searching, and through comparing different search engines.

Lesson 1: Systems

This lesson introduces learners to the concept of a system. Learners will develop their understanding of components working together to make a whole. They will outline how digital systems might work and the physical and electronic connections that exist.

Learning objectives: To explain that computers can be connected together to form systems

I can explain that systems are built using a number of parts
I can describe that a computer system features inputs, processes, and outputs
I can explain that computer systems communicate with other devices

In this lesson, I learnt about the process to make a bicycle work. For example, the handlebars are connected to the front fork, and the wick steers the wheels in the direction you want them to go. On a bicycle, the input is you turning the pedals, the output is the wheels turning and the bicycle moving forward. This process involves lots of different parts of a bike, as well as that, the faster you push the pedals, the faster the bike moves.

Livie, Buzzard Class.

Lesson 2: Computer Systems and Us

In this lesson, learners consider how larger computer systems work. They see how devices and processes are connected, and reflect on how computer systems can help them.

Learning objectives: To recognise the role of computer systems in our lives

I can identify tasks that are managed by computer systems
I can identify the human elements of a computer system
I can explain the benefits of a given computer system

In this lesson we learnt about the role of computer systems in our lives. We looked at human elements of computer systems and discussed many tasks managed by computer systems. We also looked at comparing pedestrian crossings and systems we have to protect us online. We learnt about timed and censored crossings as well as how to stay safe online (safety rules).

Fatima, Buzzard Class

Lesson 3: Searching the Web

This lesson learners are introduced to a range of search engines. They are given the opportunity to explain how to search, before they write and test instructions. Next, they learn that searches do not always return the results that someone is looking for, and refine their searches accordingly. Finally, learners are introduced to the two most common methods of searching: using a search engine and using the address bar.

Learning objectives: To experiment with search engines

I can make use of a web search to find specific information
I can refine my web search
I can compare results from different search engines

Lesson 4: Selecting Search results

In this lesson, learners gain an understanding of why search engines are necessary to help them find things on the World Wide Web. They conduct their own searches and break down, in detail, the steps needed to find things on the web. Learners then emulate web crawlers to create an index of their own classroom. Finally, they consider why some searches return more results than others.

Learning objectives: To describe how search engines select results

I can explain why we need tools to find things online
I can recognise the role of web crawlers in creating an index
I can relate a search term to the search engine’s index

Lesson 5: Institute of imagination Digital storytelling

Stop motion animation uses lots of digital photos and storytelling to bring a still object to life. As the photos are taken, the object is moved slowly each time. When all the photos are played one after another, it will create the appearance of movement in your still objects.

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