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IB Computer Science Higher Level (Year One)

Description

In this lesson, students will learn about the essential internal components that make up a computer. Component categories include the motherboard (system board), firmware (BIOS), CPU (processor), GPU (graphics processor), storage, cooling, and NIC (network adapter).

Objective

Students will be able to:

  • Explain the purpose of common internal computing components such as motherboards, BIOS, RAM, and more.
Description

In this lesson, students will learn and explain the purposes and use of various peripheral types. They will classify the peripherals as input or output devices and explore different ways of installing them on a laptop or PC.

Objective

Students will be able to:

  • Explain the purposes and uses of various peripheral types
  • Classify common types of input/output device interfaces.
  • Explain how to install common peripheral devices to a laptop/PC
Description

In this lesson, students will learn about different networking devices that allow devices to connect to other devices as well as the Internet. They will also learn different networking connection methods such as using dialup, DSL, coax cables, and fiber optic cables.

Objective

Students will be able to:

  • Compare and contrast common Internet service types
  • Compare and contrast common networking hardware devices
  • Explain basic cable types, features, and their purposes
Description

In this lesson, students will learn about the different storage options including local storage, network storage, and cloud storage.

Objective

Students will be able to:

  • Compare and contrast storage types
  • Examine and discuss the security of cloud storage
  • Select suitable storage devices for given situations
Description

In this lesson, students will learn about the different network types and options that are available. This will include wireless networking standards and protocols.

Objective

Students will be able to:

  • Compare and contrast the different wireless network standards
  • Compare and contrast Internet connection types, network types, and their features
Description

In this lesson, students will learn about the basic functions and types of operating systems. Students will also explore the process for upgrading and installing Windows and Mac operating systems.

Objective

Students will be able to:

  • Explain the purpose of operating systems
  • Identify the main types of operating systems
  • Analyze the upgrade and installation process for operating systems
Description

In this lesson, students learn about the different types of software. Through interactive exercises, students explore how different software can be used in the workplace and our every day lives. Students also learn about single and cross-platform software.

Objective

Students will be able to:

  • Explain the different types of software (productivity, collaboration, business) and the purpose of each.
  • Explain the benefits and challenges of single and cross-platform software.
Description

In this lesson, students will learn about browser security features and ways to configure their browsers to enhance security.

Objective

Students will be able to:

  • Configure their browser to enhance security and privacy
  • Explain how the following features impact their browser security: cache, client-side scripting, browser extensions, private browsing, proxy settings, certificates, and popup blockers
Description

In this lesson, students learn about three methods computers use to process tasks ? sequential, parallel, and distributed computing. Sequential computing executes each step in order one at a time, while parallel and distributed computing process tasks simultaneously on the same or across more than one device, respectively.

Objective

Students will be able to:

  • differentiate between sequential, parallel, and distributed computing
  • explain the benefits and challenges of using parallel and distributed computing