■ Lesson Plan – Computer Science
Topic: Network Topologies (Bus, Star, Ring, Mesh)
Class: 9th
Subject: Computer Science
Duration: 35–40 minutes
Number of Students: 30–35
General Objectives
- To develop students’ interest in using computers in everyday digital life.
- To encourage a scientific and logical attitude in solving problems.
- To prepare students for real-world applications of networking and technology.
- To promote digital literacy and teamwork skills.
Specific Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
1. Define “Network Topology” in their own words.
2. Identify and explain different types of topologies (Bus, Star, Ring, Mesh).
3. Compare the advantages and disadvantages of each topology.
4. Relate real-life examples with networking concepts.
5. Draw simple diagrams of network topologies.
Material Required
- Whiteboard / Chalkboard
- Markers / Chalk
- Textbook (Computer Science Class 9 – Chapter 6, Section 6.4)
- Chart papers & markers (for group activity)
- Multimedia / projector (for presentation)
- Paper cups & strings (for Star Topology activity model)
Teaching Method
- Demonstration Method
- Discussion Method
- Activity-based Learning
Previous Knowledge
Students already know the basic concept of a computer network and devices like hub and switch.
Introduction (5 minutes)
- Ask: “How do computers in a school lab communicate with each other?”
- Write the word Topology on the board and ask if anyone has heard it before.
- Definition: “Network topologies are methods used to define the arrangement of different devices in
a computer network.”
Presentation (20 minutes)
1. Bus Topology
- Definition: All devices share a single communication line (bus).
- Example: Chalkboard in a classroom where all students can see the notes.
- Advantage: Easy to set up.
- Disadvantage: If the main cable fails, the whole network goes down.
2. Star Topology
- Definition: Each node communicates via a central hub/switch.
- Example: Principal’s office connected to classrooms through intercoms.
- Advantage: Easy to manage, fault isolation possible.
- Disadvantage: If hub fails, network fails.
- Class Activity: Create a model using paper cups and strings.
3. Ring Topology
- Definition: Devices are connected in a circular path, and data travels in one direction.
- Example: Relay race where each runner passes the baton in a circle.
- Advantage: Can handle high traffic.
- Disadvantage: If one link fails, the entire network is affected (two-way ring improves reliability).
4. Mesh Topology
- Definition: Each device is connected to every other device.
- Example: A city where every house is connected by roads.
- Advantage: Highly reliable, multiple routes available.
- Disadvantage: Expensive and complex to install.
Class Activity (5 minutes)
- Students will draw a network diagram of their choice (Bus / Star / Ring / Mesh) on chart paper and
explain how data travels.
Evaluation (5 minutes)
1. What is a network topology?
2. Which topology is most reliable? Why?
3. What happens if the main cable in Bus topology fails?
4. Give one real-life example of Star topology.
Homework
- Draw all four topologies (Bus, Star, Ring, Mesh) in your notebook with neat diagrams.
- Write two advantages and disadvantages of each topology.
