Class: Junior Secondary School 2 (JSS 2 / JS2)
Term: 3rd Term
Week: 7
Age: 13 years
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: Basic Science and Technology
Curriculum Theme: Computer Studies / Information Technology
Previous Lesson: File Sharing: Definition of Network.
Topic: COMPUTER ETHICS
Subject Matter: Responsible use of the internet: Avoiding liquid dropping into the system, Using dust cover, Protection from power problem

Specific Objectives

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

Cognitive Domain:

Define computer ethics.
Identify responsible practices for computer care.
State ways to protect computers from physical damage and power problems.

Affective Domain:

Appreciate the importance of proper computer care.
Value responsible behaviour when using computers.
Develop a positive attitude towards maintaining computer systems.

Psychomotor Domain:

Demonstrate how to use a dust cover on a computer.
Identify a surge protector and explain its function.
Practice safe handling of computer peripherals to avoid spills.

Promote responsible computer use among peers.
Share knowledge on preventing common computer damage.
Collaborate in discussing best practices for computer maintenance.

Reference Materials

The following resources were used in planning this lesson:

9 Years Basic Education Curriculum
State Unified Scheme of Work
Basic Science and Technology for Junior Secondary Schools, Book 2.
https://www.google.com/search?q=computer+ethics+for+jss2
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F01y0m8J0V4

Instructional Materials

The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:

Pictures of computers and computer accessories.
A dust cover.
A surge protector.
A chart showing common computer hazards.

Rationale for the Lesson

This lesson helps pupils understand the importance of responsible computer use, especially regarding physical care. It enables them to prevent common damage to computers, ensuring the longevity and proper functioning of these devices.

Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge

Pupils should have basic knowledge of computer parts and their general functions.

Lesson Content/Board Summary

COMPUTER ETHICS

Computer ethics refers to the moral principles that guide the use of computers and the internet. It involves responsible and acceptable behaviour when using technology to ensure safety, respect, and proper maintenance.

Responsible Computer Use (Physical Care)

Responsible computer use includes taking good care of the physical computer system to ensure its longevity and proper functioning. Some key practices are:

1. Avoiding Liquid Dropping into the System

Liquids can cause severe damage to computer components, leading to short circuits or corrosion. To avoid this:

Keep all drinks and liquids away from the computer and keyboard.
Do not eat or drink directly over the computer system.
If a spill occurs, immediately turn off the computer and disconnect it from power, then seek professional help.

2. Using Dust Cover

Dust can accumulate inside the computer, blocking air vents and causing the system to overheat, which can damage internal components over time. Dust covers help to:

Prevent dust from settling on and inside the computer when it is not in use.
Protect the computer from minor spills and accidental damage.
Extend the lifespan of the computer by keeping its internal parts clean and cool.

3. Protection from Power Problems

Fluctuations in electrical power can harm computer components, leading to data loss or permanent damage. It is important to protect your computer from:

Power Surges: These are sudden, brief increases in electrical voltage. A surge protector (or surge suppressor) should be used to divert excess voltage away from the computer.
Power Outages: These are sudden losses of electrical power. An Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) provides temporary battery power during an outage, allowing you to save your work and shut down the computer properly.
Unstable Power Supply: Inconsistent voltage can damage components. Ensure your computer is connected to a stable and reliable power source.

Teaching Methods/Instructional Techniques

Discussion, Lecture, Demonstration, Question and Answer, Visual Aids

Instructional Procedures

Step 1: Introduction

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Set Induction
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher greets the pupils and asks them to mention some ways they take care of their personal belongings like books and clothes.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils respond by mentioning various ways they care for their belongings.
Learning Point: Pupils are prepared to learn about caring for computers.

Step 2: Explanation of Computer Ethics

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher introduces the topic “Computer Ethics” and briefly explains what it means, linking it to responsible behaviour when using computers.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen attentively and ask questions for clarification.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the general concept of computer ethics.

Step 3: Discussion on Avoiding Liquid Dropping

Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Discussion/Illustration
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains the dangers of liquids near computers and discusses practical steps to avoid spills, using examples of damaged devices.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils share experiences and suggest ways to keep liquids away from computers.
Learning Point: Pupils learn how to prevent liquid damage to computers.

Step 4: Demonstration and Discussion on Using Dust Cover

Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Practical
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher shows a dust cover and demonstrates how to properly place it on a computer, explaining its importance in preventing dust accumulation.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the demonstration and discuss the benefits of using a dust cover.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the importance and correct use of dust covers.

Step 5: Explanation of Protection from Power Problems

Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation/Visual Aids
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains different power problems (surges, outages) and how devices like surge protectors and UPS protect computers, showing pictures or actual devices if available.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen, ask questions, and identify the protective devices.
Learning Point: Pupils learn about protecting computers from electrical issues.

Step 6: Practical Application/Reinforcement

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Group Work/Application
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher divides pupils into small groups and asks them to list two ways they can ensure their school’s computers are properly cared for based on the lesson.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils discuss in groups and present their lists to the class.
Learning Point: Pupils apply learned concepts to real-life situations.

Step 7: Evaluation/Review

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Questioning/Assessment
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher evaluates the learning by asking the following questions:

What is computer ethics?
State two ways to prevent liquid damage to a computer.
Why is it important to use a dust cover for a computer?
Mention two devices used to protect computers from power problems.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer orally and in writing.

Learning Point: Pupils demonstrate understanding of the lesson.

Step 8: Conclusion

Time: 4 minutes
Teaching Skill: Summarization
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher summarizes the key points of the lesson and assigns homework: “Draw a surge protector and state its function.”
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils copy the summary and homework assignment.
Learning Point: The lesson is reinforced and pupils are given an opportunity for further practice.

Lesson Keywords

Computer Ethics – Moral principles guiding the use of computers and the internet.
Dust Cover – A protective covering used to shield computers from dust and dirt.
Surge Protector – An electrical device that protects computers from power surges.
UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) – A device that provides temporary power to a computer during power outages.
Responsible Use – Using computers in a way that prevents damage and ensures safety.

Differentiation

For pupils who grasp concepts quickly, the teacher will ask them to explain the long-term effects of neglecting computer care. For those who need more support, the teacher will use more visual aids and provide simplified explanations, allowing them to work in pairs.

Note for teachers using this lesson plan

Teachers should ensure they have actual examples of a dust cover and a surge protector, or clear pictures, to enhance understanding. Emphasize the practical application of these care tips in daily computer use. Encourage pupils to share their own experiences with computer care or damage to make the lesson more relatable.