Topic Four (1.4): Binary Calculations and Hexadecimal Number System

Topics Icon.png Objectives for this topic

By the end of this topic you should be able to:

  • perform binary addition;
  • describe the hexadecimal number system.

You might also be able to:

  • describe other uses of hexadecimal in computing.

Introduction Icon.png Introduction

Computers spend most of their time manipulating data – and one of the simplest manipulations is to add two binary numbers together. You will also learn about hexadecimal, an alternative way for computers to display data to save time and screen space for the user.

Interact Icon.png Working through your coursebook

Read pages 24-26 in your Computing Stage 8 book.

  • Make sure you understand the learning points.
  • Ensure you follow through the two examples.
  • Complete the practice task on pages 25-26.

Read pages 26-28 in your Computing Stage 8 book.

  • Make sure you understand the learning points.
  • Make sure that you understand the key words described on page 27. Add them to your cram.com Links to an external site. flashcards.
  • Complete the practice task on pages 27-28.

Read pages 28-30 in your Computing Stage 8 book.

  • Make sure you understand the learning points.
  • Complete the practice task on page 29.
  • Pay extra attention to the red boxes with key concepts in them.

Review Icon.png Review

Reflect upon the four pages you have just covered. In your notes summarise:

  • what you have learnt;
  • what you already knew;
  • what surprised you;
  • what you are curious to know more about.

Bridge Icon.png  Support activity for this topic

Watch this video for more help on Binary addition:

Watch this video to review all the different number systems:

Stretch Icon.png Extension activity for this topic

Draw flowcharts of the processes to add two binary numbers together and to convert to hexadecimal. Use these as a revision tool.