How Systems Work (What is a Computer?)
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How Systems Work (What is a Computer?)
45min
Students will differentiate between inputs and outputs for computer-based systems and identify types of software used in different technologies.
Prerequisites
_Computer Science_: Students should have experience with using a computer.
Lesson Preparation
* There is a paper and digital version of the activity. Decide ahead of time how your students will interact with the activity. If they are using the paper version, create copies for each student. If they are using the digital version, make sure all students have access to the slides.
Lesson Plan
Lesson Slides
Lesson Standards
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| CA CS K-5: K-2.CS.2 | Explain the functions of common hardware and software components of computing systems. |
| CA CS K-5: K-2.CS.3 | Describe basic hardware and software problems using accurate terminology. |
| FL CS 3-5: SC.35.CS-CS.4.1 | Identify the basic components of a computer (e.g., monitor, keyboard, mouse, controller, speakers). |
| FL CS 3-5: SC.35.CS-CS.4.2 | Describe the function and purpose of various input/output devices and peripherals (e.g., monitor, screen, keyboard, controller, speakers). |
| FL CS 3-5: SC.35.CS-CS.4.3 | Compare and contrast hardware and software. |
| GA CS 3-5: CSS.EL.3-5.1.1 | Describe how internal and external parts of computing devices function to form a system. |
| KY CS K-5: E-CS-02 | Identify and describe the function of common physical components of computing systems (hardware) using appropriate terminology. |
| NE K-5 Technology: NE.K5.12 | Demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between hardware and software. |
| NE K-5 Technology: NE.K5.14 | Identify major computer components. |
| NE K-5 Technology: NE.K5.15 | Describe the components and functions of computers and networks. |
| NE K-5 Technology: NE.K5.55 | Demonstrate and understanding of how information is represented, stored, and processed by a computer. |
| NJ CS 3-5: 8.1.5.CS.1 | Model how computing devices connect to other components to form a system. |
| NJ CS 3-5: 8.1.5.CS.2 | Model how computer software and hardware work together as a system to accomplish tasks. |
| NV CS K-5: 3.CS.D.1 | Describe how internal and external parts of computing devices function to form a system. |
| NV CS K-5: 4.CS.HS.1 | Model how computer hardware and software work together as a system to accomplish tasks. |
| NY CS K-6: 2-3.IC.6 | Identify and discuss factors that make a computing device or software application easier or more difficult to use. |
| NY CS K-6: 2-3.NSD.1 | Describe and demonstrate several ways a computer program can receive data and instructions (input) and can present results (output). |
| NY CS K-6: 2-3.NSD.2 | Explain the function of software in computing systems, using descriptive/precise language. |
| NY CS K-6: 4-6.DL.5 | Identify common features of digital technologies. |
| OK CS 3-5: 3.DA.S.01 | Recognize that different types of information are stored in different formats that have associated programs (i.e., documents open in a word processor) and varied storage requirements. |
| OK CS 3-5: 3.IC.C.01 | Identify computing technologies that have changed the world, and express how those technologies influence, and are influenced by, cultural practices. |
| OK CS 3-5: 4.IC.C.01 | Give examples of computing technologies that have changed the world, and express how those technologies influence, and are influenced by, cultural practices. |
| OK CS 3-5: 5.IC.C.01 | Give examples and explain how computing technologies have changed the world, and express how computing technologies influence, and are influenced by, cultural practices. |
| TN CS K-5: K.CCP.1 | Identify, using appropriate terminology, common physical components of computing systems (hardware). For example, but not limited to, desktop computers, laptop computers, tablet devices, monitors, keyboards, mice and printers. |
| TN CS K-5: 1.CCP.1 | Recognize and utilize common physical components of computing systems (hardware) and software concepts using correct terminology. For example, but not limited to, laptop computers, tablets, monitors, keyboards, printers; software concepts such as sign-in requirements, input, output, debug, and program. |
| TN CS K-5: 2.CCP.1 | Identify and describe how hardware and software components make up a computing system. |
| TN CS K-5: 3.CCP.1 | Recognize and understand that a series of devices and components form a system of interdependent parts with a common purpose. |
| TN CS K-5: 4.CCP.1 | Recognize the input and output devices along with the components that form an interdependent system with a common purpose. |
| TN CS K-5: 5.CCP.1 | Identify and describe the role of various input and output devices and components that are within an interdependent system with a common purpose. |
| UT CS K-5: 3.CS.1 | Describe and model how computing devices connect to other components to extend their capabilities and form a system. |
| UT CS K-5: 4.CS.1 | Demonstrate how computer hardware and software work together as a system to accomplish tasks. |
| WY CS K-2: 2.CS.HS.01 | Demonstrate and describe the function of common components of computing systems (hardware and software) (e.g., use a browser, search engine). |
| WY CS K-2: 2.CS.T.01 | Recognize computing systems might not work as expected and identify and effectively communicate simple hardware or software problems and implement solutions (e.g., app or program is not working as expected, no sound is coming from the device, caps lock turned on) and discuss problems with peers and adults. |