Lesson Plan - Chapter 7.
2: Computer
Systems, Sub-systems, and
Decomposition
Teacher’s Name: ______________________
Subject: Computer Science
Grade: IGCSE / O Level
Week / Day: Week 3 / Day 2
Date Submitted: ______________________
Lesson Duration: 40 minutes
Lesson Title
Computer Systems, Sub-systems and Decomposition
Lesson Contents
- What is a computer system
- Sub-systems and top-down design
- Decomposition and stepwise refinement
- Designing solutions using structure diagrams, flowcharts, and pseudocode
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Define a computer system and list its components (Knowledge)
- Explain the concept of sub-systems and top-down design (Comprehension)
- Decompose a real-life problem using input-process-output-storage model (Application)
- Construct structure diagrams, flowcharts, and pseudocode for a simple system (Creation)
Pre-requisites
- Familiarity with what a computer system is
- Basic understanding of input-process-output
- Prior exposure to flowcharts or pseudocode is helpful
Resources Required
- IGCSE CS Textbook (Watson & Williams)
- Whiteboard & markers
- Projector and video clips
- Chart papers, flashcards
- Sample structure diagrams
- Printed worksheets for pseudocode and flowchart practice
Lesson Procedure
Introductory Lesson (5 min)
Activity: Guess the System!
- Show pictures of alarm clock app, online shopping site, and Google Maps.
- Ask: “What do these have in common?”
- Play a 2-minute video on how apps are structured.
Main Activity (24 min)
Visual & Demonstration Techniques:
- Use a diagram of an alarm app broken down into sub-systems
- Show structure diagram, flowchart, and pseudocode side-by-side
- Create a “human flowchart”
Interactive Learning Approaches:
- Think-Pair-Share: “If you were to build an e-library system, what sub-systems would it
have?”
- In pairs, decompose a school bell scheduling system
- Small groups create flowcharts for "online food ordering system"
Engagement & Inquiry Strategies:
- Real-life analogy: Decomposing a cake recipe into ingredients & steps
- Inquiry prompt: “Why do large systems need decomposition?”
- Challenge: Convert a real problem into input-process-output-storage
Explanation (By the teacher if required)
Clarify structure diagrams, pseudocode formatting, and system design techniques.
Reserve Activity
- Given a structure diagram, ask students to identify missing sub-systems
- “Design your own system” activity—students sketch a structure diagram of a mobile app
Assessment Methods
During Lesson:
- Peer assessment of flowcharts
- Exit slip: Write input, process, output, storage for a microwave system
- Teacher observation during group activity
After Lesson:
- Written assignment: Decompose any daily app (e.g., WhatsApp)
- Create a structure diagram and short pseudocode
- Oral presentation: Group explanation of flowchart
Recap/Debriefing/Closure (5 min)
- Review IPOS and ask students to link with alarm app
- Summary: What is decomposition and why is it useful?
- Wrap-up question: “Which representation—flowchart, structure diagram, or pseudocode
—did you find easiest and why?”
Written Work
Worksheet: Flowchart symbols + Flowchart & pseudocode creation
Homework
- Decompose a Smart Home System
- Write pseudocode for a daily task (e.g., brushing teeth)
- [BBC Bitesize -
Decomposition](https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zp92mp3/revision/1)
Reflection
- Were objectives met? ☐ Yes ☐ No
- Modifications during delivery: ______________________
- Key concepts learned: ______________________
- Differentiation success? Struggling students: ______________________
- Learning atmosphere: ☐ Engaging ☐ Inclusive ☐ Focused
- Disruptions & handling: ______________________
- Time Management issues: ______________________
Two things that went well:
1. ______________________
2. ______________________
Two improvements needed:
1. ______________________
2. ______________________
Approved by: ______________________ Date: ______________________
