Introduction to Computer Architecture

Lesson Plan

Overview

• Goal

• Lesson Objectives

• Instructional Activities

• Assessment Methods

Goal

• Introduce students to top level view of computer architecture

• Target:– High school computer class

• Scope:– One or two week unit

Lesson Objectives

• Students will be able to identify functions of key computer elements (vocabulary)

• Students will be able to show interaction of computer elements for key CPU instructions (understanding)

Key Computer Elements

• CPU– Registers– Flags

• Memory– Cache– RAM

• Chipset– Connection to CPU/Memory– I/O Devices

Interactions of Computer Elements

• Reading memory to registers and registers to memory

• Performing simple arithmetic operations– Effects on registers– Effects on flags

• I/O Operations

• Memory and caching

Instructional Activities

• Discuss computer elements with assistance of vocabulary sheets and system diagrams

• Walk students through example computer operations– Start at 100% teacher directed for first examples, transition to

60% student directed for repeat examples

• Team assignment– Fill in missing code in assembly language program– Run program and write description of what each instruction is

doing in response to highly directed questions– Allow opportunity for further more advanced modifications to

program for advanced students

Assessment Methods

• Start with diagnostic assessment– Establish target teaching level

• Formative assessments with each lesson– Frequent teacher directed Q&A (every 10 to 15

minutes of teaching time)– Quiz style homework assignment after most lessons– Assess result of programming assignment

• Formal test at end of unit– Later review test results and cover weak points

• Wrap key material into final & midterm exams

Relation to Direct Instructional Teaching

Methods

• Material presented in an expository approach

• Frequent student practice and assessment via teacher directed Q&A and daily homework quizzes

• Also includes some cooperative learning and in-class activities with programming assignment