Unit 01. Computer specifications – I’m a hardware sales specialist

This unit is available through our KS3 Resource Centre. We will review and update it once the draft National Curriculum 2028 Programme of Study is published to ensure full alignment. These updates will be provided free of charge to users with active KS3 Resource Centre access.

Unit description

What’s inside your PC? The different components, specifications and what they mean when purchasing a new computer.

Unit career

I’m a hardware sales specialist.

“As a hardware sales specialist, I help customers find the right computer hardware for their needs. This includes understanding product specifications, explaining features, and ensuring customers are satisfied with their purchases. My goal is to match the best hardware solutions with each customer’s requirements.”

Key Question

All the activities in this unit enable students to answer the key question:

How do we decide what to consider when building, upgrading, replacing, or buying a computer?

Knowledge statements

This is achieved by students studying 4 “Learn-it” lessons, each of which focus on one knowledge statement:

1. Know the function of different components inside a computer: processor, RAM, storage and graphics.
2. Know what the units of measurement for capacity and data transfer mean in terms of performance and capacity.
   • E.g. processor: GHz, network: Gb, storage: TB.
3. Know how to interpret basic computer specifications. And match hardware to specific needs.
   • E.g. gaming or general use.
4. Know the effect of discarding electronic equipment.

What is included in this unit?

• Teacher guide providing a detailed overview of the unit.
• 6 Lesson folders:
  • 4 “Learn-it” lessons with a teacher PowerPoint and student workbook.
  • 1 “Make-it” lesson with assessment materials for teachers and students.
  • 1 “Review-it” lesson with an end of topic MCQ test, assessment grid, peer assessment and self-reflection.
• Any additional resources and materials needed for the activities are provided in the lesson folders.
• 6 detailed lesson plans explaining how to teach the 3 lesson phases.
• Extension activities with model answers.
• 3 independent homework question sheets supported by 3 online videos hosted on Tella.
• Reading activities with questions.

Samples

You can take a look inside our Key Stage 3 resources by watching our showcase videos.