Class: Primary Four
Term: First Term
Subject: Basic Science and Technology
Curriculum Theme: Computer studies
Previous Lesson: Meaning and Uses of Printer
Topic: The System Unit
Content/Learning area: Defining the System Unit and its importance,Identifying and describing the internal and external features of a System Unit,Explaining the functions of the major components within the system Unit
time Allocation: 40 minutes
Performance Objectives
By the end of the lesson,pupils should be able too:
- Cognitive Domain:
1. Define the System Unit and its importance.
2. Identify and describe the internal and external features of a System Unit.
3. Explain the functions of the major components within the System Unit.
- Psychomotor Domain:
1. Point out the System Unit on a computer.
2. Identify the power button and other external features.
- Affective Domain:
1. Show interest in learning about computer components.
2. Appreciate the importance of the System Unit.
- Social Domain:
1. Work cooperatively with peers during activities.
2. Ask questions to clarify understanding.
Reference Materials
- 9 – years Basic Education Curriculum
- Abuja Educational Resource Center Scheme of Work
- NAPPS National Unified Scheme of Work
- Online Facts
- Relevant Textbooks
Instructional Materials
To deliver this lesson, the teacher will employ the help of the following materials:
- Whiteboard or chart
- Markers or pens
- Pictures or diagrams of a System Unit
- A working computer (if possible)
Rationale for the Lesson
Understanding the System Unit is crucial for foundational computer knowledge. This lesson provides a basis for future lessons on more advanced computer hardware and software, fostering a deeper understanding of how computers function.
Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge
The teacher will start by asking pupils what they remember from the previous lesson on basic computer parts. A fast review will be done, followed by introducing the System Unit as the main focus of today’s lesson.This will be done thru a captivating question like, “What is the most critically vital part of a computer?”
Lesson Content
System Unit
The System unit is the main part of a computer. It’s like the brain and heart, holding essential components.
what is the System Unit?
The System Unit is the case housing the main hardware. It’s where the CPU, RAM, hard drive, and other parts are located. It’s the central hub for computer actions.
Internal Features of the System Unit
The internal features are the components located inside the system unit.
The following are examples:
- Motherboard: The main circuit board connecting all components. It’s the backbone.
- CPU (Central Processing Unit): The brain of the computer, processing instructions and data.
- RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary memory for running programs; it’s the computer’s short-term memory.
- Hard Drive (HDD) or Solid State Drive (SSD): Permanent data storage; the computer’s long-term memory.
- Power Supply Unit (PSU): Converts power from the wall outlet for computer use.
- Graphics Card: Displays images on the monitor.
- Cooling Fans: Keep the computer cool.
- Network Interface Card (NIC): Enables the computer to connect to a network.
- Sound Card: Processes audio signals for sound output and input.
External Features of the System Unit
The external features are the components located outside the system unit.
Examples are:
- Power Button: Turns the computer on and off.
- USB Ports: Connect external devices like keyboards, mice, and printers.
- Audio Jacks: Connect headphones or microphones.
- Ethernet Port: Connects the computer to a network.
- HDMI/Display Port: Connect the computer to a monitor or TV.
- CD/DVD Drive: Reads and writes data to CDs and DVDs.
- VGA Port: Connects to older monitors.
- Serial Port: Connects older devices like modems or printers.
- Parallel Port: Connects older printers or scanners.
Teaching Methods
To deliver this lesson, the teacher will adopt the following methods: Question and answer, discussion, Visual aids, demonstration (if a computer is available)
Instructional Procedures
To deliver this lesson, the teacher will adopt the following steps:
Step 1: Introduction (The Teaching Skill for this step MUST be “Set Induction”)
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Questioning, explaining
Teacher’s Activity: Briefly review the previous lesson. Introduce the topic: “The System Unit.”
Pupils’ Activity: Respond to teacher’s questions, listen attentively.
Step 2: Description of Key Concepts
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explaining, illustrating
Teacher’s Activity: Explain what the System Unit is and its importance using simple language and visual aids.
Pupils’ Activity: Listen attentively, ask questions for clarification.
Step 3: Demonstration/Guided Practice
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstrating, guiding
Teacher’s Activity: Show pictures/diagrams of the system Unit, pointing out internal and external features. If possible, demonstrate a real computer.
Pupils’ Activity: Observe carefully,participate in discussions.
Step 4: Self-Reliant Practice
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Monitoring, assisting
teacher’s Activity: Pupils will label diagrams of the System Unit.
Pupils’ Activity: Complete the labeling activity independently.
Step 5: Note-Taking
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Guiding, summarizing
Teacher’s Activity: Guide pupils in taking notes on key concepts.
Pupils’ Activity: Write down important points.
step 6: Evaluation/Review
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Questioning, assessing
Teacher’s Activity: Ask review questions to assess understanding.
Pupils’ Activity: Answer the review questions.
Objective-aligned checks:
- Define the System Unit and its importance.
- Identify and describe the internal and external features of a System Unit.
- Explain the functions of the major components within the System Unit.
Step 7: Conclusion
Time: 2 minutes
Teaching Skill: Summarizing, reinforcing
Teacher’s Activity: Summarize the key points about the System Unit and its importance, emphasizing the role of each component. Answer any remaining questions from the pupils.
Pupils’ Activity: Listen to the summary, ask any remaining questions.
Lesson Keywords
- System Unit – The main part of a computer that houses essential components.
- CPU – The brain of the computer, processing instructions and data.
- RAM – Temporary memory for running programs.
- Motherboard – The main circuit board connecting all components.
- USB Port – A port used to connect external devices.
Lesson Evaluation
To evaluate the learning, the teacher asks pupils to:
- What is the System Unit and why is it important?
- Name three internal components and their functions.
- name two external features and their uses.
Assignment/Homework
- Draw a diagram of the System Unit and label its main components.
- Write a short paragraph explaining the function of the CPU.
- List five external devices that can be connected to the System Unit via USB ports.
Differentiation
- For slower learners: Provide additional one-on-one support and simplified explanations.
- For advanced learners: Provide extension activities, such as researching additional components of the System Unit.
- For visual/auditory/kinesthetic learners: Use visual aids, verbal explanations, and hands-on activities to cater to different learning styles.
note for Teachers
Ensure to use real-life examples and relatable analogies to explain complex concepts. Encourage pupils to ask questions and participate actively in discussions.If possible,use a physical System Unit to demonstrate the components.

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