Computing · Year 1 · Technology in Our Lives · Summer Term

Technology at Home and School

Students compare and contrast the types of technology used at home versus at school, discussing their different purposes.

• National Curriculum Attainment Targets
• KS1: Computing - Technology Beyond School
• KS1: Computing - Information Technology

About This Topic

Smart Choices focuses on the healthy and purposeful use of technology. In the UK National Curriculum, this falls under 'Digital Literacy' and 'Online Safety'. Year 1 students discuss the benefits of technology, like learning new things or staying in touch with family, while also acknowledging the need for balance. They learn that while screens are fun, our bodies and minds also need exercise, sleep, and face-to-face interaction.

This topic encourages self-regulation and critical thinking. It helps children understand that technology is a tool that we should control, rather than letting it control us. This topic particularly benefits from structured discussion and role play, where students can practice making choices about when to use technology and when to put it away.

Key Questions

1. Can you name some technology you use at home and some technology you use at school?
2. What do you think would happen if our school had no computers for a whole week?
3. Which pieces of technology do you use both at home and at school?

Learning Objectives

• Compare the functions of at least three technologies used at home with three technologies used at school.
• Explain the primary purpose of two distinct technologies found in a school setting.
• Identify at least two pieces of technology that are used in both home and school environments.
• Classify technologies based on their primary use at home or at school.

Before You Start

Identifying Objects

Why: Students need to be able to recognize and name common objects, including technological devices, before they can discuss their uses.

Basic Communication Skills

Why: Students must be able to verbally express simple ideas and answer direct questions to participate in discussions about technology.

Key Vocabulary

technology	Tools and machines that help people do tasks. This can include computers, tablets, phones, and smart boards.
purpose	The reason why something is used or made. For example, the purpose of a pencil is to write.
compare	To look at two or more things to see how they are the same and how they are different.
contrast	To look at two or more things to see how they are different.

Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

Technology is 'bad' for you.

What to Teach Instead

Avoid demonizing screens. Instead, use the 'balanced diet' analogy. Just like we need different types of food, we need different types of activities to stay healthy.

Common Misconception

I can only learn things from a computer.

What to Teach Instead

A 'Gallery Walk' of non-tech hobbies shows students that we learn and grow through many different experiences, not just digital ones.

Active Learning Ideas

Formal Debate: Screen Time vs. Green Time

The class is split into two groups. One group lists all the great things about using a tablet (learning, games), and the other lists all the great things about playing outside (exercise, fresh air). They then discuss how to have a 'balanced day'.

20 min·Whole Class

Role Play: The Polite Gamer

Students act out a scene where a parent says '5 minutes left'. They practice 'saving' their game and turning off the screen without a fuss, discussing why it's important to listen to our bodies when they are tired.

15 min·Pairs

Gallery Walk: My Favorite Non-Tech Activity

Students draw a picture of something they love doing that doesn't use any electricity (e.g., swimming, reading, playing tag). They display their drawings and walk around to find a new 'no-tech' activity to try this weekend.

20 min·Whole Class

Real-World Connections

• Librarians in schools use cataloging software on computers to help students find books, a different purpose than the video streaming technology a family might use at home for entertainment.
• Teachers use interactive whiteboards in classrooms for lessons, while a child might use a tablet at home to play educational games or video call grandparents.
• Office workers in businesses use specialized software on desktop computers to manage data, a task very different from the personal use of a smartphone for communication or navigation.

Assessment Ideas

Discussion Prompt

Gather students in a circle. Ask: 'Think about our classroom. What technology do we use here? Now, think about your home. What technology do you use there? Let's talk about how they are the same and how they are different. For example, what is the purpose of the computer in our classroom? What is the purpose of the tablet you might use at home?'

Quick Check

Provide each student with two drawings: one of a school setting and one of a home setting. Ask them to draw one piece of technology in each box and then write or draw a symbol to show its purpose. For example, a book symbol for learning or a smiley face for fun.

Exit Ticket

Give each student a sticky note. Ask them to write or draw one piece of technology they use at school and one they use at home. On the back, ask them to write one word about the purpose of each.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much screen time should a Year 1 child have?

There is no single 'right' amount, but the focus should be on 'quality over quantity'. Using a tablet to create art or learn phonics is different from passive scrolling. The key is ensuring it doesn't replace sleep or physical play.

How can active learning help students make 'Smart Choices'?

Role playing 'turning off' or debating 'Screen vs. Green' time makes the concept of self-regulation social and practical. Instead of being told what to do, students explore the 'why' behind the rules. This peer-led discussion helps them internalise the value of balance and makes them more likely to follow these choices in real life.

How do I talk about this without sounding like I'm telling parents what to do?

Focus on 'balance' and 'variety' within the school day. Frame it as a life skill, learning to use a tool wisely, rather than a judgment on home habits.

What are some 'smart' ways to use technology in class?

Using it for a specific goal (like researching an animal) and then putting it away once the goal is reached. This models 'purposeful use' for the students.