Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Computer Science
Lesson Topic: Show understanding that the DBMS carries out all creation/modification of the database structure using its Data Definition Language (DDL)
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the purpose of DDL and how it differs from DML.
  • Explain the sequence of actions the DBMS performs when a DDL statement is executed.
  • Identify common DDL commands (CREATE, ALTER, DROP, TRUNCATE) and their effects on the data dictionary.
  • Apply DDL statements to modify a sample database schema in a hands‑on activity.
  • Evaluate the impact of auto‑commit behavior of DDL on transaction control.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • Computer lab with SQL database software (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL)
  • Sample database script and worksheet
  • Printed handout of DDL command cheat‑sheet
  • Whiteboard markers
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick analogy: just as an architect designs a building, the DBMS designs the database structure. Review students’ prior experience writing SELECT queries (DML) and ask how they would add a new room to a building. Explain that today they will learn the “blueprint” language—DDL—and how success will be measured by correctly creating and altering tables in a live database.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5') – short quiz on DML vs. DDL concepts.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10') – introduce DDL purpose, common commands, and auto‑commit behavior.
  3. Live demonstration (10') – execute CREATE and ALTER statements, show data dictionary update on screen.
  4. Guided practice (15') – students work in pairs to write DDL statements that modify a provided student‑table schema.
  5. Check for understanding (5') – exit ticket: list the five processing steps the DBMS performs for a DDL command.
  6. Summary & reflection (5') – recap key differences between DDL and DML and discuss real‑world implications.
Conclusion:
Recap the main ideas: DDL defines and changes the database structure, the DBMS updates its metadata automatically, and this underpins all DML operations. Collect exit tickets and remind students to complete the homework worksheet that asks them to design a small schema using CREATE and ALTER statements. This reinforces today’s learning and prepares them for the upcoming unit on database integrity constraints.