Lesson Plan: Selecting the Right CPU and RAM for Your System

Grade Level: 10th Year Subject: IT Fundamentals Aligned to: NYS Danielson Framework

Opening Task: - Given a list of motherboards, identify the CPU Socket being used and the type of RAM being used. List them in bullet format. - Discuss the importance of choosing the first CPU for your motherboard. - Explain the purpose of the motherboard chipset.

Motivation: - Relate RAM and Storage to short and long term memory. - Discuss how recalling past knowledge and performing tasks is similar to RAM and storage. - Explain the importance of having both CPU and RAM in a computer system. - Relate the computer system to the human body.

AIM: How do I select the right CPU and RAM for my system?

Learning Objectives: By the end of this lesson, students will be able to: - Describe the crucial components required to build a PC. - Outline the characteristics of motherboards and CPUs and their features. - Explain the importance of selecting the correct motherboard and CPU.

CPU Sockets: - Discuss the difference between LGA and PGA sockets. - Identify which company typically uses each of the above sockets. - Explore if there is a performance difference between the two.

Memory Slots: - Explain that motherboards are the central connection point for all PC parts. - Discuss the purpose of system memory and its role as short-term storage for applications. - Introduce DIMM slots and their function in connecting memory to the motherboard. - Discuss the difference between DIMM slots and SO-DIMM slots. - Explain the evolution of RAM modules from SDRAM to DDR. - Present current RAM options.

How CPU and RAM Communicate on the Motherboard: - Discuss the Northbridge connection and its role in maintaining a high-speed connection between the CPU and RAM.

Choosing the Right Motherboard: - Explain the importance of considering the features outlined by the manufacturer when selecting a motherboard. - Discuss different reasons why people may be in the market for building a PC. - Analyze and interpret the specifications of a motherboard, including the manufacturer, model, chipset, CPU socket, form factor, memory slots, expansion slots, storage slots, ports, and features.

Activity: Update Your PC Build - Given a budget of $600, revise your choices if needed and select a CPU and RAM for each motherboard chosen. - Discuss the possibility of allocating more budget to the motherboard or using the additional $300 for the CPU and RAM.

Teacher Notes: - Encourage students to explore and discover different technology brands at different price points. - Provide guidance and support as students make their selections.

Materials: - Promethean Board or other interactive whiteboard - Google Classroom or other online learning platform - Internet connection for research

Summary: - Discuss three motherboard brands discovered by students. - Explain the importance of selecting the right motherboard in the PC building process.

Immediate Application/End Results: - Students will create a document that guides them through their PC project presentation.

IEP Accommodations: - Provide extra time to complete worksheets. - Offer preferential seating in the classroom. - Provide an information sheet for reference.