Binary shifts
I can perform binary shifts to multiply and divide binary numbers, but recognise the errors this may introduce.
Binary shifts
I can perform binary shifts to multiply and divide binary numbers, but recognise the errors this may introduce.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Binary shifting is shifting the bits to the left or to the right.
- If you shift to the left, you multiply the number by a power of 2.
- If you shift to the right, you divide the number by a power of 2.
- Overflow is when a number is too large to be stored in allocated memory.
- Underflow is when a number is too small to be processed.
Keywords
Binary shifting - when binary digits are moved left or right, multiplying or dividing them by powers of 2
Overflow - when a number is too large to be represented in the available binary digits
Underflow - when a number is too small to be represented in the available binary digits
Common misconception
When performing binary multiplication any result can be stored, regardless of how many binary digits are needed.
The size of a binary number that can be stored is allocated in memory. Sometimes the result of a binary shift may result in a larger binary number that can be stored in the number of bits available.
To help you plan your year 10 computer science lesson on: Binary shifts, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 computer science lesson on: Binary shifts, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 4 computer science lessons from the Representation of numbers unit, dive into the full secondary computer science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
a number system using 0 and 1
a number system using the digits 0 to 9
a switch in an electronic circuit
a direction for performing a task
Exit quiz
6 Questions
multiplies by powers of 2
divides by powers of 2
when memory capacity is exceeded
when digits are rounded down as they drop near zero