Why do computers use binary?
I can explain why computers use binary to represent all data and instructions.
Why do computers use binary?
I can explain why computers use binary to represent all data and instructions.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Computers use binary to represent all data and instructions.
- Binary is a number system consisting of 1s and 0s.
- Binary can be represented by two-state electrical signals within circuits.
- A transistor that is “on” represents a 1; a transistor that is “off” represents a 0.
Keywords
Data - raw facts, such as numbers or text, presented without any meaning
Binary - a number system that uses the digits 0 and 1 to represent data
Instruction - directions on how to carry out a specific task
Transistor - a tiny electronic switch controlled by electricity.
Common misconception
Computers use binary for data and instructions but they can use other number systems just as easily.
Computers have to use binary as they are powered by electrical circuits which contain transistors which can be switched on and off using electricity. Using other number systems would require more complex circuitry.
To help you plan your year 10 computer science lesson on: Why do computers use binary?, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 computer science lesson on: Why do computers use binary?, 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.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
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
Pupils do not require any specific equipment for this lesson.
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
a number system that uses the digits 0 and 1 to represent data
raw facts, like numbers or text, presented without context or meaning
directions on how to carry out a specific task
a small electronic switch controlled by electricity