Representing bitmap images
I can describe how computers represent bitmap images.
Representing bitmap images
I can describe how computers represent bitmap images.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- A pixel is the smallest element in an image.
- A bitmap image is one that is represented by a grid of pixels.
- The colour a pixel should display is described by a binary sequence.
- The colour depth of a bitmap image quantifies the number of bits used to represent each pixel.
- The resolution of an image describes the total pixels an image contains based on its width and height.
Keywords
Pixel - the smallest element of an image
Colour depth - the number of bits used to represent the colour of each pixel
Resolution - total amount of pixels an image contains based on its width and height expressed in pixels
Common misconception
Bitmap images that are large on screen are always poor quality.
The quality of a bitmap image depends on its resolution, not just its size on the screen. A high-resolution bitmap can appear sharp and detailed, while a low-resolution bitmap may look pixelated when enlarged.
To help you plan your year 10 computer science lesson on: Representing bitmap images, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 computer science lesson on: Representing bitmap images, 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 text, images and sound 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
Exit quiz
6 Questions
Allows for 256 different colours.
Allows for 65,536 different colours.
Allows for 16.7 million different colours.