The History of Computers, 2, Abacus and Calculators for Primary 3

Class: Primary Three
Term: first Term
Subject: Basic Science and Technology
Curriculum Theme: Computer Studies
Previous lesson: The History of Computers
Topic: Later Developments in the History of Computers
Content/Learning area: Describing and identifying an Abacus, Demonstrating counting using an abacus and electronic calculator, Defining a calculator
Time Allocation: 40 minutes

Performance Objectives

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

• cognitive Domain:

1. describe and identify an abacus.
2. Define a calculator.
3. explain the functions of an abacus and a calculator.

• Psychomotor Domain:

1. Demonstrate counting using an abacus.
2. Demonstrate basic calculations using an electronic calculator.

• Affective Domain:

1. Show interest in learning about the history of computers.
2. Appreciate the role of the abacus and calculator in the growth of computers.

• Social Domain:

1. Participate actively in class discussions.
2.Work cooperatively with peers during activities.

Reference Materials

• 9 – Years Basic Education Curriculum
• Abuja Educational Resource Center Scheme of Work
• NAPPS national Unified Scheme of Work
• Online Data
• Relevant textbooks

Instructional Materials

To deliver this lesson, the teacher will use the following materials:

• Abacus
• Electronic Calculator
• Whiteboard or Chart
• Markers or Chalk

Rationale for the Lesson

Understanding the evolution of computing devices from simple tools like the abacus to electronic calculators provides a foundation for grasping more complex technological advancements.

Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge

The teacher will begin by asking pupils what they remember from the previous lesson on early forms of computers. A brief review will be conducted, followed by introducing the topic of later developments, specifically the abacus and calculator.

Lesson Content

What is an Abacus?

The abacus is an early counting tool that uses beads to perform calculations. It’s a mechanical device used for centuries before electronic calculators. The abacus is still used in some places to teach basic math.

What is a Calculator?

A calculator is an electronic device used for mathematical calculations. It adds, subtracts, multiplies, divides, and performs other math operations. Calculators are used in schools,offices,and homes.

From Manual to Electronic Calculation

An abacus represents numbers by the positions of beads on rods or wires. The user moves beads according to place value, so the tool does not calculate by itself. A calculator accepts numbers and operation signs through keys, processes them electronically and displays an answer.

The abacus illustrates place value and manual calculation; the calculator shows a later stage in the development of computing devices. Both depend on a user entering information correctly. Pupils can represent 24 on an abacus drawing and compare the steps with entering 20 + 4 on a calculator.

Teaching Methods

To deliver this lesson,‌ ⁤the teacher will⁤ adopt⁤ the following methods: Discussion, Exhibition, Practical Activity.

Instructional Procedures

To deliver this lesson, the teacher will adopt the following steps:

Step 1: Introduction

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Set Induction
Teacher’s Activity: Briefly review the previous lesson.Introduce the abacus and calculator as crucial steps in the history of computing.
Pupils’ Activity: Respond to teacher’s questions, listen attentively.

Step 2: Clarification of Key concepts

Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explaining
Teacher’s Activity: Explain what an abacus is and how it effectively works. Define a calculator and its functions.
Pupils’ Activity: Listen attentively, take notes.

Step 3: Demonstration/Guided Practice

Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstrating,Guiding
Teacher’s Activity: Demonstrate counting and simple calculations using both an abacus and a calculator. Guide pupils through the process.Pupils’ Activity: Observe the demonstration, participate in guided practice.

Step 4: Autonomous Practice

time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Monitoring
Teacher’s Activity: Allow pupils to practice using the abacus and calculator independently. Monitor their progress and provide assistance as needed.
Pupils’ Activity: Practice using the abacus and calculator independently.

Step 5: Note-Taking

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Guiding,Summarizing
Teacher’s Activity: Guide pupils in summarizing key concepts and writing notes.
Pupils’ Activity: Take notes, summarize key concepts.

Step 6: Evaluation/Review

Time: 5 minutes
teaching Skill: Questioning, Assessing
Teacher’s Activity: Ask evaluation questions to assess understanding.
Pupils’ Activity: Answer evaluation questions.

Objective-aligned checks:

1. describe and identify an abacus.
2. Define a calculator.
3. explain the functions of an abacus and a calculator.

Step 7: Conclusion

Time: 2 minutes
Teaching Skill: Summarizing
Teacher’s Activity: Summarize the key points about the abacus and calculator, emphasizing their importance in the history of computing and their continued relevance in learning mathematics.
Pupils’ Activity: Listen attentively and ask questions.

Lesson Keywords

• abacus – An early counting tool using beads to perform calculations.
• Calculator – An electronic device used for mathematical calculations.
• Computing – The process of using computers to solve problems or perform tasks.
• Mechanical Device – A device that uses physical parts to perform a task.
• Electronic Device – A device that uses electricity to perform a task.

Lesson Evaluation

To evaluate the learning, the teacher asks pupils to:

1. What is an abacus used for?
2. Name an early mechanical counting device.
3. How do you use a calculator for addition?
4. What are some other uses for an abacus and a calculator?
5. What are the advantages and disadvantages of using an abacus and a calculator?

Assignment/Homework

1. Research and write a short paragraph about the history of the abacus.
2. Practice basic calculations using both an abacus and a calculator.
3. List three ways calculators are used in everyday life.

Differentiation

• For slower learners: Provide one-on-one assistance and simplified instructions.
• For advanced learners: Challenge them with more complex calculations and research tasks.
• For visual/auditory/kinesthetic learners: Use visual aids, verbal explanations, and hands-on activities to cater to different learning styles.

Note for Teachers

Ensure that pupils have ample prospect to practice using both the abacus and the calculator. Encourage them to ask questions and explore the functions of each device.