Lesson Plan

• Describe the core functions of an operating system (process, memory, file, device, and security management).
• Explain how OS techniques such as pre‑emptive multitasking, virtual memory, caching, and DMA increase CPU, memory, and I/O utilisation.
• Analyse a multi‑program scenario to identify which OS mechanisms are used to balance resources.
• Apply scheduling or memory‑management concepts to suggest improvements in resource efficiency.

• Projector and screen
• Slide deck summarising OS functions and resource techniques
• Printed handout of the resource‑management table
• Worksheet with the “browser‑music‑backup” scenario
• Computers with a simple OS simulator or virtual‑machine
• Whiteboard and markers

Begin by asking students when they have noticed their computer slowing down and why that matters. Briefly recall that an operating system sits between hardware and applications, managing resources. Explain that by the end of the lesson they will be able to identify OS functions and describe how those functions keep resources busy.

1. Do‑now (5') – short quiz on the purpose of an OS.
2. Mini‑lecture (10') – introduce the five core OS functions with examples.
3. Table analysis (10') – students examine the provided resource‑management table and discuss how each technique improves utilisation.
4. Scenario activity (15') – groups work through the browser, music player, and backup example, listing the OS actions involved.
5. Guided demo (10') – use the OS simulator to show scheduling, paging, and DMA in action.
6. Check for understanding (5') – exit‑ticket question: “Name one OS technique that boosts CPU utilisation and explain why.”

Recap the key OS strategies that maximise CPU, memory, and I/O use. Collect exit tickets and highlight a strong answer. For homework, ask students to research a real‑world OS feature (e.g., Linux’s Completely Fair Scheduler) that improves resource utilisation and write a brief paragraph explaining its impact.