Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Information Technology IT
Lesson Topic: Identify direct and indirect data sources
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the difference between direct and indirect data sources.
  • Explain how to evaluate a data source using criteria such as timeliness, cost, reliability and ethical considerations.
  • Apply a systematic six‑step process to select the most appropriate data source for a given information requirement.
  • Compare the advantages and limitations of direct versus indirect sources in real‑world contexts.
  • Combine direct and indirect sources to enrich data analysis.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Printed handout with the direct/indirect comparison table
  • Sample survey questionnaire (paper)
  • Excerpt of POS sales data (digital)
  • Internet access for a web‑analytics demo
  • Worksheet for evaluating data sources
 Introduction:

Begin with a quick “What data do you use every day?” brainstorm to activate prior knowledge. Explain that today’s focus is on where that data comes from and why the source matters. Share the success criteria: students will be able to distinguish direct from indirect sources and justify a choice for a given problem.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5'): Students list everyday data examples; teacher records on board.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Define data, direct vs. indirect sources; present the comparison table.
  3. Guided activity (15'): In pairs, work through the six‑step “Identify the Appropriate Data Source” process using the retail‑sales scenario; complete the worksheet.
  4. Whole‑class discussion (10'): Groups share their chosen source and reasoning, referencing timeliness, cost, reliability, and ethics.
  5. Demonstration (10'): Show how to extract raw POS data (direct) and view a market research report (indirect) on the projector.
  6. Exit ticket quiz (5'): Individually write the most suitable source for a new brief (e.g., measuring classroom temperature).
Conclusion:

Recap the key distinctions between direct and indirect data sources and the decision‑making steps. Collect exit tickets as a retrieval check and assign homework: students must locate one direct and one indirect source for a topic of their choice and write a brief justification.