Lesson Plan

• Describe the main types of computer systems and their typical use cases.
• Compare the portability and expandability of each computer type.
• Evaluate advantages and disadvantages to select an appropriate system for a given scenario.
• Explain how core components affect portability and upgrade options.

• Projector and screen
• Whiteboard and markers
• Printed comparison worksheet
• Teacher’s laptop for slide demo
• Internet access for device images
• Exit‑ticket cards

Begin with a quick poll: “Which device would you use to run a weather‑forecast simulation?” Use the responses to highlight differences in portability and power. Link this to prior knowledge of everyday devices and set the success criteria: students will be able to compare computer types and justify the best choice for a scenario.

1. Do‑Now (5’) – Students list devices they use daily and classify them as portable or not.
2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Overview of computer types (supercomputer, mainframe, server, desktop, laptop, tablet) with key advantages/disadvantages.
3. Guided comparison activity (15’) – In pairs, complete a table comparing portability and expandability for each type.
4. Whole‑class discussion (10’) – Groups share findings; teacher clarifies misconceptions.
5. Application task (10’) – Students choose a real‑world scenario and justify the most suitable computer type.
6. Exit ticket (5’) – Write one advantage and one disadvantage of the chosen device.

Recap the main trade‑offs between portability, expandability, performance and cost. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding and assign a brief homework: research a recent supercomputer and write a short paragraph describing its portability constraints and why it fits its intended use.