Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Information Communication Technology ICT
Lesson Topic: Know and understand computer controlled systems including robotics in manufacture, production line control, autonomous vehicles
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the main components of computer‑controlled systems (sensors, controllers, actuators, HMI).
  • Explain how PLCs coordinate production line operations using different control strategies.
  • Compare programming methods for industrial robots (teach‑pendant vs offline).
  • Analyse the perception‑decision‑control architecture of autonomous vehicles and associated safety features.
  • Evaluate the benefits and limitations of computer‑controlled systems in manufacturing contexts.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen for diagrams
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Printed handouts of component tables and diagrams
  • Laptop with robot‑simulation software (e.g., RoboDK)
  • Virtual PLC demonstration software or kit
  • Sample sensor and actuator kits (optional)
 Introduction:
Begin with a short video clip showing a robotic arm assembling a car, prompting students to identify what is controlling the motion. Review prior knowledge of basic input‑output devices and ask learners to predict how sensors and software interact. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to describe key components, explain control strategies, and evaluate safety features of autonomous systems.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑Now (5’) – Students list everyday devices that operate without direct human control; quick share.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Define computer‑controlled systems, introduce components using the table, and label a diagram on screen.
  3. Interactive PLC demo (12’) – Show a virtual PLC controlling a conveyor; students write a simple IF‑THEN logic on a worksheet.
  4. Robotics programming activity (15’) – In pairs, use offline simulation to program a pick‑and‑place task; discuss teach‑pendant vs offline methods.
  5. Autonomous vehicle case study (10’) – Examine a diagram of perception‑decision‑control layers; groups identify safety redundancies.
  6. Consolidation quiz (8’) – Kahoot or paper quiz covering components, control strategies, and AV architecture.
  7. Exit ticket (5’) – Write one benefit and one limitation of computer‑controlled systems.
Conclusion:
Summarise how sensors, controllers, and actuators work together across robotics, production lines, and autonomous vehicles. Collect exit tickets to reinforce key take‑aways. Assign homework: research a real‑world example of a PLC‑controlled system and prepare a one‑page summary.