Lesson Plan

• Describe the purpose and function of each type of system software (compilers, linkers, device drivers, operating systems, utilities).
• Explain how system software components interact to run an application.
• Identify real‑world examples of each system software category.
• Compare the roles of system software versus application software.

• Projector and screen
• Computer with internet access
• IDE or compiler demonstration (e.g., Visual Studio Code, GCC)
• Printed handout of system software comparison table
• Flowchart diagram of software interaction
• Whiteboard and markers

Begin with a quick poll: who has installed a program on a computer today? Explain that behind every app lies invisible system software that makes the hardware usable. Today we will explore compilers, linkers, device drivers, operating systems and utilities, and you will be able to describe their functions and how they work together.

1. Do‑now (5'): Students list software they think runs on their computer and share examples.
2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Define system software, differentiate it from application software, and introduce the five categories.
3. Interactive presentation (15'): Show slides and a live demo compiling a simple program; discuss compilers, linkers, drivers, OS, and utilities with real examples.
4. Group activity (15'): Using the handout, students match software names to categories and map their interactions on the flowchart.
5. Synthesis & Q&A (10'): Teacher summarises the interaction sequence of system software; students ask clarifying questions.
6. Exit ticket (5'): Each student writes one example of each system software type.

Recap the key functions of each system software category and how they collaborate to run applications. Collect exit tickets as a quick check for understanding and assign homework to research a utility tool and write a short paragraph on its purpose.