Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Computer Science
Lesson Topic: Select and use appropriate data types for a problem solution
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the role of primitive and derived data types in program design.
  • Explain how to select the most efficient data type for given data requirements.
  • Apply a decision checklist to design records that model real‑world entities.
  • Implement a record definition in pseudo‑code and access its fields correctly.
  • Evaluate common pitfalls such as overflow and inappropriate type choices.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • Computer lab with IDE (e.g., VS Code)
  • Printed handout of data‑type tables and record examples
  • Sample code snippets on USB drive
  • Whiteboard markers
  • Exit‑ticket cards
 Introduction:
Students will explore why choosing the right data type matters for memory efficiency and error prevention. They will recall basic primitive types studied previously and see how those choices affect program correctness. By the end of the lesson they will be able to justify each type selection against a clear success criterion.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5'): Quick Kahoot quiz on primitive data types.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Review of primitive vs. derived types and memory implications.
  3. Guided practice (15'): Design a Student record, fill a table, write pseudo‑code.
  4. Pair activity (20'): Create a Book record for a library system using the decision checklist; implement in IDE.
  5. Whole‑class share (10'): Groups present their record definitions; teacher highlights common pitfalls.
  6. Check for understanding (5'): Exit ticket – state which type to use for a ZIP code and why.
Conclusion:
We recap how appropriate data‑type selection leads to efficient, error‑free programs and review the checklist for future use. Students submit their exit tickets, and the teacher summarizes key take‑aways. For homework, each student creates a record for a real‑world entity of their choice, justifying every type decision in a short paragraph.