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LESSON 5

GPU

The Graphics Card

The Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) is a special computer chip designed to handle images, video, and 3D graphics.

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Learning Objectives

  • Understand the role of a GPU
  • Understand how it works with other components.
  • Explain why components need to communicate with one another.
YOUR LESSON JOURNEY

What You Will Learn

Complete each step in order. Each section builds your knowledge and understanding.

1.

Reflection

Discuss the key question with your partner.
2.

Learn

Explore the key information about GPU and NICs.
3.

Watch

Watch how a GPU connects to a computer.
4.

Quiz

Test your understanding with a short quiz.
5.

Computer Doctor

Diagnose a GPU related problem.
6.

Exit Ticket

Answer a quick question to show what you learned.
7.

Prove Your Learning

Complete the challenge to prove your knowledge.

1. Reflection Time

Question: How do you think the CPU, RAM, storage and graphics card communicate with each other?

  1. Think quietly for 1 minute.
  2. Discuss your idea with someone.
  3. Be ready to share your answer with your teacher.

2. Learn: What is a GPU?

Explore all four cards to discover more about the GPU NIC. Click a card again to turn it back over.

3. Watch: Graphics Card Explained

Watch this video to learn about graphics processing and network connections.

Watch Graphic Card Explained

While watching, answer:

  1. What does a GPU do?
  2. What does a NIC allow a computer to do?
  3. How have game graphics changed over time?

4. Checkpoint Quiz

1. What is the main job of a GPU?

Connect computer components so they can communicate
Store files permanently
To rapidly render images, videos and graphics

2. Will you be able to play games on a computer that does not have a graphics card?

Yes, as long as there is a graphics chip built into the CPU
No, nothing will be displayed on your screen

3. What travels along the GPU pathways?

Data and instructions
Paper documents
Internet cables only

5. Main Activity: Computer Doctor

“A computer turns on and seems to be running, but the screen shows distorted images, strange lines and colours, or no picture at all. The monitor and cables are connected correctly. Which computer component is most likely causing the problem?”

Your task: Write a short answer explaining what might be causing the problem and what advice you would give.

Model Answer

The issue points clearly toward the GPU because the symptoms specifically involve graphics and displaying images, rather than general processing or communication between components.

6. Exit Ticket

1. What is the GPU often compared to?

A communication network for the computer
A permanent filing cabinet
A computer screen

2. Which statement best describes a GPU?

It connects hardware components together
It only stores photographs
It creates the internet connection

3. Why is the GPU important?

It lets components share data and work together
It is used only to cool the computer
It prints documents

7. Prove Your Learning

Final challenge: Write a persuasive recommendation for a school choosing between upgrading its computer graphics or improving its network connection. Explain which component should be upgraded first and why.

Your name:

Class:

Your explanation: