This task will enable you to work within the Control strand of ICT as well as supporting design and technology requirements and science activities.

The topic/theme to be supported should specifically entail work that involves activating lights and/or buzzers, or moving models within a given situation. Ready-made models, such as a model house, traffic lights, buggies, kits with motors etc. are readily available. Alternatively, models may be independently constructed specifically for a control project.

Control activities can be effectively integrated into design and technology projects, as well as supporting topic based work in science - eg. electricity or forces. The logical approach needed for ordered sequencing when creating programs supports both literacy and numeracy, especially when pupils are encouraged to ask questions of the nature: "What would happen if...?"

Advanced Task:

Decide on the given Control situation which involves the use of sensors - ie. what are the pupils going to control? what sensors are they going to use?

Decide on the equipment that will be used - eg. how many bulbs, which model, which sensors etc.

Ensure that the control box and peripherals are working properly.

Become familiar with the control software including how to use input commands.

Introduce the software, control box and peripherals to the pupils.

Demonstrate the use of direct output and input commands which activate bulbs, buzzers or motors via sensors.

Provide ample opportunities for pupils to use direct output and input commands.

Introduce the concept of procedures and repeat commands that contain inputs.

Demonstrate the use of procedures and repeat commands within a given situation that includes the use of sensors.

Prepare focused tasks or worksheets for pupils to use.

Ensure that pupils are fully aware of the tasks that they are required to do.

Ensure that pupils regularly save, retrieve and edit their procedures.

Ensure that there is constant assessment of the Control activity.

Ensure that there is continuity and progression.

Provide opportunities for pupils to constantly ask questions of the nature: "What would happen if...?"


Resources

  • computer
  • control software
  • buffer box
  • peripherals such as lights, buzzers, motors etc.
  • ready-made models such as traffic lights etc.

Teaching Strategies: Advanced