Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Information Technology IT
Lesson Topic: Compare custom-written and off-the-shelf software
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe key characteristics of custom‑written and off‑the‑shelf software.
  • Compare the advantages, disadvantages, and risk factors of each type.
  • Evaluate criteria for selecting the appropriate software solution for a business scenario.
  • Apply a decision‑making framework to a case study and justify a recommendation.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Handout with comparison table
  • Case‑study worksheet
  • Laptop with internet access
  • Sticky notes for group brainstorming
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick poll: how many students use packaged apps versus bespoke systems. Recall the definitions of custom‑written and off‑the‑shelf software from previous lessons. Today we will explore their strengths and decide when each is appropriate, aiming to produce a justified recommendation.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5’) – students list daily software examples and classify them as custom or off‑the‑shelf; share responses.
  2. Direct instruction (10’) – present definitions and key characteristics using slides.
  3. Guided comparison (15’) – in pairs, analyse advantages/disadvantages and complete a Venn diagram on the handout.
  4. Case‑study activity (20’) – groups work through the logistics company scenario, apply the decision flowchart, and calculate a simple cost‑benefit analysis.
  5. Whole‑class debrief (10’) – each group presents its recommendation; teacher highlights the decision criteria.
  6. Check for understanding (5’) – quick quiz or exit ticket with three multiple‑choice questions.
Conclusion:
Summarise that both software types have distinct trade‑offs and the choice depends on cost, time, strategic value and maintenance capacity. For the exit ticket, students write one factor that would most influence their decision on a sticky note. Homework: research a real‑world example of a company that switched from off‑the‑shelf to custom software and prepare a brief summary.