SS 2 Second Term

Lesson objectives

By the end of the week, learners should be able to:

1. Define a computer file and name its required attributes.
2. Distinguish internal and external storage media on a machine.
3. Explain why folders matter inside a directory tree.
4. Describe a three-level folder structure for subjects, terms and weeks.
5. Identify which storage type holds user files permanently versus temporarily.

Key vocabulary

• File: a stored document or data unit identified by a filename.
• Attributes: properties such as name, type and date describing a file.
• Internal storage: storage inside the computer case.
• External storage: storage attached outside the case.
• Folder: a container grouping related files and folders.
• Directory tree: the visual map of folders and subfolders.
• Three-level structure: subject, term and week folder levels.
• Permanent holding: storage retaining data after shutdown.
• Temporary holding: storage clearing contents when power is removed.

Common misconceptions

• "Files live everywhere." Files live in specific storage locations matched to their attributes.
• "Folders mean nothing in a networked lab." Folders prevent cross-contamination between users.
• "A file and a folder are the same thing." Files hold data; folders hold containers of files.

Teacher activities

1. Starter: display two drives with mislabelled files and ask why one wastes time finding work.
2. Define a file and list its required attributes one by one.
3. Name internal and external storage media on a live system.
4. Explain why folders matter by contrasting two incorrect filing schemes.
5. Demonstrate building a three-level folder structure on the drive.
6. Close with the file-storage distinction task and exit question.

Student activities

1. Answer the starter and identify the problem with the misfiled drives.
2. Define a file in their own words and name five attributes.
3. Distinguish internal from external storage with examples.
4. Contrast two incorrect filing schemes on paper.
5. Build a three-level folder structure with sample files in each week.
6. Answer the exit question in one sentence about folders.

Practical / learning evidence

A completed file-attributes chart, an internal-versus-external comparison and a three-level folder structure confirmation. Submit all three for marking.

Resources and preparation

Computers with file manager access, blank drive roots and sample files to create, rename and locate. Disable Caps Lock before drills. Confirm every learner can write to their assigned drive.

Assessment for learning

Inspect the attributes chart for five distinct attributes. Check the internal versus external comparison for matching definitions. Verify the folder structure has three correct levels and sample files placed in the right folders. Flag any learner who confuses files with folders.

Inclusion and homework

Provide the attributes chart prefilled for learners who need scaffolding and allow oral internal versus external answers. Allow extra time on folder creation. Extend confident learners with four-level structures and a second homework locating your most important file today.