Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Computer Science
Lesson Topic: Show understanding of bit streaming
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the concept of bit streaming and how it differs from packet‑switched transmission.
  • Explain key parameters (bit rate, bandwidth, latency, jitter) and calculate required bandwidth for a given media stream.
  • Compare serial and parallel transmission characteristics relevant to networking.
  • Evaluate common encoding schemes (NRZ, Manchester, 8b/10b) for suitability in real‑time streaming.
  • Apply error‑detection/correction techniques (parity, CRC, FEC) to maintain stream integrity.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • Slides/handout summarising key concepts
  • Laptop with network simulation software (e.g., Packet Tracer)
  • Sample video file for bitrate calculation exercise
  • Worksheet with calculation and encoding questions
  • Whiteboard and markers
 Introduction:
Begin with a short video clip that buffers instantly on a high‑speed connection, then ask students why some streams lag while others play smoothly. Review prior learning on data transmission basics and introduce today’s success criteria: students will be able to define bit streaming, compute required bandwidth, and choose appropriate encoding for a given scenario.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑Now (5’) – Quick quiz on packet vs stream concepts.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Define bit streaming, discuss serial vs parallel transmission, and introduce key parameters.
  3. Guided calculation (12’) – Compute raw and compressed bitrate for a Full HD video; students work in pairs using the worksheet.
  4. Encoding demo (8’) – Show NRZ, Manchester, and 8b/10b waveforms; discuss advantages and trade‑offs.
  5. Error‑control activity (8’) – Simulate CRC and FEC on a short bit stream using the simulator.
  6. Consolidation discussion (7’) – Compare encoding choices for low‑latency gaming versus video streaming.
  7. Exit ticket (5’) – Write one sentence summarising the most important factor when selecting a streaming protocol.
Conclusion:
Recap the definitions, calculations, and encoding trade‑offs covered today, highlighting how bandwidth and latency shape real‑time services. For the exit ticket, students write the key factor they would prioritize in designing a streaming solution. Assign homework: research adaptive bitrate streaming (ABR) and prepare a one‑page summary.