Sub Strand: 1.2 Computer Organisation and Architecture

STRAND 1.0: FOUNDATION OF COMPUTER STUDIES

Sub Strand: 1.2 Computer Organisation and Architecture

Specific Learning Outcomes

By the end of the sub-strand, the learner should be able to:

a) Describe the functional organisation and architecture of a computer,

b) analyse the relationships among the functional elements of a computer,

c) create a model of computer architecture that depicts the structural elements of a computer,

d) acknowledge the importance of computer architecture in computing.

Suggested Learning Experiences

The learner is guided to:

• search for information on the functional organisation and architecture of a computer (input, processing, output, storage, buses, instruction sets),
• Watch a video on the functional elements of the functional organisation and architecture of a computer.
• Brainstorm the differences between Reduced Instruction Set Computer (RISC) and Complex Instruction Set Computer (CISC) architectures.
• develop print or digital content and use it to illustrate the organisation of computer functional elements (input, output, control signals, interfaces and ports, CPU, and storage),
• discuss how the functional elements of a computer communicate,
• Watch a video of the fetch-execute cycle,
• Use locally available materials to model a computer architecture with all the structural elements,
• Discuss the importance of the fetch-execute cycle in computer architecture.

Suggested Key Inquiry Question(s)

What is the role of computer architecture in the performance of computers?

Core Competencies to be Developed

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: The learner interprets and illustrates the interrelationship among elements of computer architecture.

Digital Literacy: The learner uses digital devices to watch a video of the fetch-execute cycle.

Values

Respect: The learner understands and appreciates others’ opinions as they discuss how the elements of computer architecture communicate.

Social Justice: The learner shares resources equitably when creating models of a computer architecture that depicts the structural elements of a von Neumann computer.

Pertinent and Contemporary Issues (PCIs)

Life Skills: The learner overcomes challenges faced while modelling a computer architecture using locally available materials.