1 Importance of Computers

1.1 Let's get to know the Computer

My name is Computer.
Dear kids, would you like to get to
I am your friend who is know about me?
coming closer to your day to day life.
You can see me in your home, offices,
schools etc.

I am a fast electronic device made to fulfil your

needs. You can do complex tasks efficiently and
accurately with my help. At the same time I don't get
tired as you. I can perform tasks for a long time with
the same speed.

1.1.1 Functions of a Computer

The basic functions of a computer are entering data, processing them

and producing processed data (information).
Input Process Output
Figure 1.2 - Basic Functions of a Computer

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 Input Output

Data & Information

Instructions

Process Data

Activity 1 - See 1.1 in the Workbook.

1.1.2 Significant Features of a Computer

Speed and Efficiency

 It can finish any given task within a very short time.

(It can perform billions of tasks in a second.)

Accuracy

 It can provide correct information

when correct instructions and data
are given.

Reliability Consistency

 You can rely on the

process and the output.  It produces consistent output when
the same input is given.

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 Storage Capacity Cost
 It can store a large amount of  Though the initial cost is high, the
data. It can obtain them at any maintenance cost is not so.
given time for any process.

Intelligence

 It can act according to the given instructions.

But it cannot take decisions on its own like a
human being.

1.1.3 Devices with Embedded Computers

Grandpa, do you know? There

is a washing machine at Amal's
house. When we put clothes
into it, it automatically washes
and dries them.

How is that, son?

It works with the help of a

computer programme.

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Equipment like washing machines, mobile phones, modern motor
vehicles and modern televisions are operated by computer programmes.
Computer programmes included in such equipment are known as
Embedded Computer Systems.

Smart Phones Washing Machines Modern Cars Smart Televisions

Figure 1.3 - Some Devices with Embedded Computers

1.2 Let's identify the Components of a Computer

Display
System Unit
Speaker

Keyboard Internet Router

Mouse

Figure 1.4 - Components of a Computer

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A computer is a unit which consists of many parts. We can categorise
those parts into components according to the nature of the functions
they do.
² Input Devices
² Output Devices
² Central Processing Unit
² Main Memory
² Storage Devices
² Communication Devices

² Input Devices
The devices which are used to enter data and instructions to computers
are called input devices.

Mouse Keyboard Microphone

Web Camera Scanner

Barcode Reader
Figure 1.5 - Some Input Devices
² Output Devices
The devices which are used to retrieve the data and information are
called output devices.

Computer Monitor Printer Speaker Multimedia Projector

Figure 1.6 - Some Output Devices

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² Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Controlling the computer and processing data according to the given

instructions are done by the Central Processing Unit.

The Central Processing Unit is located inside the system unit. It cannot
be seen from outside.

System Unit Mother Board Central Processing Unit

Figure 1.6 - Location of the Central Processing Unit

² Main Memory

The device which is used to store data, information and instructions

temporarily is identified as the main memory or the primary memory. It
is also called the Random Access Memory (RAM).

Figure 1.7 - Random Access Memory -RAM

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² Storage Devices
The devices which are used to store data, information and instructions
are called storage devices.

Storage

Internal Storage External Storage

Internal Hard Disk

CD DVD Blue Ray

Pen Drive
External Hard disk

Figure 1.8 - Some Storage Devices

² Communication Devices
The devices which are used to exchange the processed data and
information are called communication devices.

Network Interface Card

(NIC) Modem Router

Figure 1.9 - Wired/Wireless Communication Devices

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 1.3 Importance of Software

A software is a set of programmes designed to execute certain tasks by using

a computer.

Activity 2 - See 1.2 in the Workbook.

Hey, what do you All the things that you

mean by Software and can touch in me are called
Hardware? hardware.
Things that cannot be touched
such as programmes with data
and instructions are called
software.

Then who is a user?

The person who

operates me is called a
'user'.

A user can do different tasks by using software.There are various types

of software to fulfil the needs of the user.

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 Video editing
MS Word Computer software
Word Processing Games
software to prepare
documents

Media Player
Painting to listen to
software to draw songs and
pictures watch videos

Figure 1.10 - Some Examples for Software

You can study more about software in the forthcoming chapters.

1.4 Application of Computers in Various Sectors
Activities in all sectors have become easy by the use of computers.
Several examples for such sectors are given below.

Banks
Agriculture

Schools

Hospitals
Factories

Figure 1.11 - Various Sectors that use Computers

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1.4.1 Schools

Today, we learnt the History

lesson in a new way. All the
children in the class learned
attentively.
How was that?

Today we learned
using computers.

Buddy, you know, a lot of

work can be done using
computers in school.

Computers simplify work and bring

effectiveness to office work in the
school system.

Figure 1.12 - Working in the school

office using computers

Computers are used instead of

blackboard and books in the learning
process.

Figure 1.13 - Computer enabled

Learning Situation

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 Obtain additional knowledge related to
subjects by accessing the internet.

Figure 1.14 - Getting

knowledge from the internet

1.4.2 Banking
Computer has become an essential tool in the banking activities.

Use of Automated Teller Machine (ATM) to

deposit and withdraw money.

Figure 1.15 - An ATM

machine

Using electronic cards to settle bills

when purchasing goods.

Figure 1.16 - Paying

bills by electronic cards

Internet banking and mobile banking are

latest trends in the banking system.

Figure 1.17 - Internet

Banking

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 1.4.3 Hospitals
There are many examples of using computer systems in hospitals.

Digital thermometer is an embedded

computer device which can be used at
home.
Figure 1.18 - Thermometer

Use of computer and embedded computer

devices in Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

Figure 1.19 - Use of computers and

computer embedded devices in ICU

Use of computers and computer embedded

devices in an operation theatre.

Figure 1.20 - Use of computers and

computer embedded devices in an
operation theatre

1.4.4 Factories

² Human labour is replaced by computer

devices. As a result, production can be
increased.
² The use of robotic technology is a
latest improvement in industrial work.
Activities in industrial sector have
become easier by that.
Figure 1.21 - Use of Robotic Technology

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 1.4.5 Agriculture

Embedded computer devices are used

in various activities such as harvesting,
weeding and water supplying. Thus,
the productivity can be increased by
minimising expenditure.

Figure 1.22 - Supplying Water and Fertilizer

using Modern Technology in Agriculture

Activity 3 - See 1.3 in the Workbook.

Summary
³ The main tasks of the computer are input, processing and
output.
³ Input devices, memory, CPU, output device, communication
devices are identified as the main parts of a computer.
³ Software is essential to do different tasks of the user.
³ Computer is used for various activities of day to day life.
³ Smart phones, modern televisions and washing machines can
be identified as equipment with embedded computer systems.

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 2 Use the Computer Laboratory
Safely

2.1 Let's Identify the Computer Laboratory

Computer Laboratory
Remove footwear before entering
Keep your bags and other
instruments outside.
Do not bring in CD
or pendrives without
permission.
Alright, let's
go in.

Wait... Let's read

those notices and go
inside.

Hello,
children.

I welcome all of you to the computer lab. This computer lab is a valuable resource in our
school. Since you all are new to this place, you need to know about this computer lab and
how to use it well.

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Computers and other accessories have been installed in the computer
laboratory. Printers" scanners" multi-media projectors are some of them.

Computers and other accessories in a lab are expensive and valuable.

A large amount of money have to be spent to repair a device, if it is
damaged or to replace a new one. Therefore, it is your responsibility to
use them properly and keep them safe.

Figer 2.1 - A Computer laboratory

2.1.1 Let's use the Computer Laboratory Correctly

Using the computer laboratory correctly and

safely

Guidelines for the safety of the

Guidelines for your safety
devices

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For your safety

Be careful when you

touch devices such
as wires and sockets Should be aware of
that are connected to the exit doors of the
electricity. laboratory.

Should be aware of fire Avoid running and

extinguishers if any. playing inside the
computer laboratory.

For the safety of the devices

The laboratory and

Do not supply power
all the equipment
to devices without
should be kept clean
correct instructions.
and dust-free.

Footwear should be
All the equipment The used removed and placed
must be switched off equipment should outside the laboratory.
properly after use. be placed in the
proper place.

Virus scanning should be done

Avoid taking food, water or other when connecting external
liquid into the laboratory because storage devices such as flash
they may damage the equipment. drives to the computer.

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 Activity 1 - See 2.1 in the Workbook.

2.2.1 Let's operate the Computer

We must practise to operate the computer correctly from our childhood.
For that follow the guidelines given below.

First, supply electricity to

1 the computer by turning
on the switch connected to
the computer.

If the computer is connected to

2 an uninterrupted power supply

(UPS), turn it on.

3
Next, the system unit should be
switched on.

4 Finally, the monitor should

be turned on.

Anyhow, the above steps may differ in modern computers (like laptop
computers) which come with a single power button.

Please follow your teacher's instructions at all times since the

above steps might be different in your laboratory.

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 Selva, how to turn off this
computer now?
Don't know. Let's
check by pressing all
the buttons.

No, no, don't do harmful

things to computer. Let's ask
the teacher.

How to shut down the computer?

The functioning computers should be shut down in a proper way.
Otherwise, the life span of the computer may be shortened.

First, we should close any programmes that we have opened.

Then, select the command ''Shutdown'' and click on it.

Switch off the power on/off button of the monitor.

When it's screen becomes dark.

Then, switch off the UPS and the wall switch respectively.

2.2.2 Let's learn Computer Ethics

zzuy;a fi;a jvjk zzMahath seth wadawana
isß;a u,aoï n,ñk Sirith maldam balamina
isß;a fyd| oekf.k Sirith honda denagena
uy;a hiisß ,nkq fof,dúkZZ Mahath yasasiri labanu delowinaZZ
- isß;a u,aou - Sirith Maldama
Meaning : Read Sirith maldama. It brings you peace. Learn and practise good
values from it and it will bring you good fortune in this life and lives
to come.
Dear children, you always get advices to be a good child at home and at
school. These advices are called ethics, values, or good customs.

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Good practices help to lead a good life. Similarly, there is a set of ethics
that should be followed to use the computer properly.
They are identified as 'computer ethics'.

Activity 2 - See 2.2 in the Workbook.

This code of ethics can be considered as a set of guidelines that help

you to use the computer properly.
we must use
computers without
disturbing others.

we must
avoid hacking
computer activities
When we use the computer laboratory... of others.

we must refrain from

Software which should
accessing computer
be used by paying
files and articles
money should not be
of others without
fakely used or copied.
permission. we must not
repair any
computer devices
without proper
we must not
we should not uninstall/ instructions.
access the
change/ delete any
internet
programmes without
without the
the permission of the
supervision of
teacher.
teachers.

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In additon, there can be some other rules and regulations related to your
laboratory.

The above regulations are for grade 6 students like you. You will learn
more on computer ethics in the forthcoming grades.

Activity 3 - See 2.3 in the Workbook.

2.2.3 Let's use Correct Postures when using Computers

Nizam, why are you looking at
the monitor so closely?

Why are you bending towards the monitor? Piyal, keep that chair
properly and sit facing the front. Children stop your work and
listen to me carefully.

It is common for various health problems to occur when using computers

constantly. Most of the illnesses occur due to the lack of maintaining
a correct posture. So we need to practise maintaining a correct posture
from our childhood.

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 B
A

E
D
Figure 2.2 - Maintaining a Correct Posture when using a Computer

Correct postures to be followed When correct postures are

not maintained
A. Always keep the computer screen
at the level of your eyes or little Pain in the eye, problems
below. in eyesight and tearful eyes
B. The distance between your eyes can occur.
and the computer screen should
be between 18 and 28 inches.
C. Sit straight by leaning on to the Pain in backbone.
back of the chair.
D. Keep your legs vertically and place Strain in feet.
your feet on the ground.
E. Keep the keyboard and the mouse Pain in fingers and elbows.
at the level of your elbow.

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In addition, adjust the brightness and the contrast of the computer screen
to suit your eye. Often give a rest to your eye if you are working on your
computer for a long period of time.
Although an incorrect posture can cause health issues, the computer is
not a device that can be discarded. Therefore, we must use the computer
properly to avoid such problems.

Activity 4 - See 2.4 in Workbook.

2.2.4 Let's dispose Electronic Waste Safely

All computer hardware is When these harmful substances enter

considered as electronic waste the human body. They can cause
when they become out of use or various diseases. They can cause
when the user discards them. various day-to-day inconveniences
and gradually lead to develop various
long-term non-curable diseases such as
cancers and kidney diseases.

Lead
When we dispose these tools
Damage the brain, kidneys and
improperly to the environment
disorders in blood circulation
it can cause great damage to the
Barium
environment as well as to human
Brain swelling, muscle
beings, since they have been weakness, damage to heart
manufactured from various harmful
metals such as Copper, Aluminum Mercury
Damage to kidneys and
and Lead as well as from plastic.
nervous system
Beryllium
Lung Cancer

Figure 2.3 - Illnesses that can be caused due to

electronic waste

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 Since, these hazards can cause damages for
generations, they must be disposed properly. For
that, the 3R system can be used.

Figure 2.4 - 3R Method

1' Reduce
It is not necessary to upgrade to new equipment periodically if we
maintain existing equipment properly as to use them for a long time.
This reduces the amount of waste that is released to the environment.

One day, there was a problem in our

computer. My sister told father to buy
a new one. But he brought necessary
parts and repaired the computer.

Activity 5 - See 2.5 in the Workbook.

2' Reuse
When purchasing new equipment, consider donating or selling the old
equipment if they are in working condition, without discarding them.

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 If it is not in working condition, then it
can be utilized for other purposes.

For instance, as shown in the picture, an

empty monitor can be used as a flower
pot and a casing of the system unit can be
used as a garbage bin.
Figure 2.5 - Uses of Discarded
Computers

The amount of waste that is released to the environment is therefore

minimal.
3' Recycle
Equipment which are not repairable or reusable, should be recycled
without discarding them. It should be handed over to a electronic waste
recycling company.

Recycling is a process of transforming the waste to a new product.

Waste is separated into small parts and new material is produced
through machinery.

Activity 6 - See 2.6 in the Workbook.

2.2.5 Let's use Passwords to protect Computers

Computers should be safeguarded

physically as well as logically.

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 You must have read in fairy tales that a door is opened with a secret
word. Also, there is a key to open main door of your house. Can you
open the door without a key?

To protect the information stored in the

computer from outsiders, a secret word can be
set in the computer. That is known as a
password.

Then you must enter the password before entering the computer. If the
password is incorrect, the computer does not allow you to enter.

Follow the guidelines given below when setting a password

 The password must be a collection of letters (A-Z), numbers (0 - 9),

and symbols (@, #. $). It should have a minimum of 8 characters
including at least one of the above types.
 The password must not include some simple information like your
name, birthday, etc. which can be easily guessed.
 You can give a password hint.
In case you forget the password, you can give a word or a statement
as a hint that will help you to recall it again.
 By giving an e-mail address, the password can be restored.

Activity 7 - See 2.7 in the Workbook.

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 Summary
³ Turn on the computer Turn off the computer
Electric Supply Opened programmes
X

Start

Operating System
UPS
Start

Monitor
System Unit

UPS
Monitor

Electric supply

³ It's our responsibility to avoid damaging any equipment in the

laboratory.
³ Passwords can be used to protect the computers.

³ Electronic waste should be disposed properly without harming

the environment.
³ When using the computer, maintain a correct posture to
prevent from physical difficulties that occur on a daily basis
and from long term health issues.

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 3 Operating System and File
Management

An operating system is
essential to run a computer. Similarly, file management
can be done through an
operating system.

What do you mean by

file management? It means...
▪ saving a created File
▪ opening a File
▪ editing a File
▪ closing a File
▪ maximizing, minimizing and resizing a
window, etc.

3.1 Operating System

You have learnt in the first chapter that an operating system is a software.
That means, it is a computer programme. It establishes a relationship
between the user and the hardware. It also helps to manage other
software in the computer.

Operating System

User Computer Software and Hardware

Figure 3.1 - Functions of an Operating System

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 What do you mean by an
operating system?
I don't understand at all. I will make it clear to you. I too
couldn't understand until my brother
explained it with a good example.

Please, say it, so that we

too can understand it.

According to my brother, computer is like a cricket team. Then, the captain is the operating system.
Other players are like software and hardware.
The captain leads the players by giving instructions according to the needs of the match. Just like
that, software and hardware are managed by the operating system according to the given set of
instructions.
Sometimes, captains are changed. Likewise, the operating system also can be changed.
Windows, Linux, Ubuntu are some other types of operating systems. It is like changing a captain.

Captain Operating System

Players Software, Hardware

Various types of operating system

Different Captains
Eg: Windows" Linux" Ubuntu

Figure 3.2 - Explaining of Operating System through an Example

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 Examples for Operating System

Windows O/S
Linux O/S

redhat O/S Mac OS

Figure 3.3 - Examples for Operating System

3.2 User Interface

A user interface is given to a user by the

operating system to do his tasks. This
interface is displayed on the screen when
the computer is turned on.

Activity 1 - See 3.1 in the Workbook.

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3.2.1 Let's learn about File
Hello Sahan, what
are you doing?

Gayan, I drew
an art on the
computer.

On the computer?
How is that?

Not only art, a lot of other

activities can be done on
it.
Can you bring your
art?

Yes, let's go to our

computer laboratory in the
school. Then, I'll show you.

We can keep a lot of documents in

the computer as we keep drawings
and letters. They are called files.
The operating system helps to do it.

How does an operating

system help us? * To name a file.
* To edit documents.
* To save files in a
preferred place.

You mean, can a file

contain any data,
instructions and
commands?
Yes, exactly.

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 Activity 2 - See 3.2 in the Workbook.

Given below are several files which are stored in a computer.

▪ List of term test marks in a particular class
▪ A video of the school play presented at the all island drama
competition
▪ The agenda of the sportsmeet
▪ The National Anthem
▪ Images of the sportsmeet
These different types of files are shown with unique symbols. A few
examples are given below to give you a basic understanding and you
will get a broader knowledge about them in higher grades.
A file with text A file with voice

A file with images A file with video

Figure 3.4 - Exampels for File Symbols

User Interface
You can use the icons An icon represents a file,
When you open a file which are shown on a folder or a programme.
or a programme, it is the user interface to
displayed on the user open a file, a folder or a
interface. programme.

File Folder

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 Activity 3 - See 3.3 in the Workbook.

A file contains two parts.

File

File Name File Extension

It is used to It is used to find the
identify the file application software to
which the file belongs.

This file is created by a word processing software and it is named as

''Kamal".

kamal.docx

File Name File Extension

Let's see how certain tasks are done

using a graphic software to learn more
about files. A graphic software is used to
draw images, charts, shapes, diagrams,
figures and building plans.

Some Graphic Software

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3.2.2 Let's Identify the Working Window

The working window is displayed once you open a software.

Let's imagine that you drew an art on a working window. (For that,
tools in the menu provided in the opened software should be used).
The working window can be maximized , minimized , resized
and closed X .
X
X
File Edit View Window Help File Edit View Window Help

Start Start

Figure 3.5 - Working Window Figure 3.6 - A Working window of

an Art

Minimizing the Working Window

X
File Edit View Window Help

Start Start My Pet

Figure 3.7 - Hiding a Window

Here the window is hidden. The window you opened disappears and is
kept on the task bar. It is shown by words or an icon.

Eg: My Pet or

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By clicking on the button shown by the word or the icon, you can restore
the working window.
Maximizing the Window
The working window can be enlarged by clicking on the maximize
button so that the screen fits into the entire screen.

My Pet X
My Pet X File Edit View Window Help
File Edit View Window Help

Start Start

Figure 3.8 - Maximizing a window

It will shrink when you re-click the button again.

Resizing the Window
There is also the opportunity to change the size of the working window
that appears on the screen. When the mouse pointer is brought to the
edge of the window, arrow shapes are shown. By dragging these arrow
shapes you can change the size of the window.

My Pet X
My Pet X File Edit View Window Help
File Edit View Window Help

Start Start

Figure 3.9 - Resizing a Window

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Closing the Window X
Click the X button on the top right hand corner to close a window.
X When you click the X button, you
will see a query window asking
My Pet X
File Edit View Window Help whether to save the document or
not.

Start

Figure 3.10 - Resizing a Window

X

If you want to save the document, File

New
Edit View Window Help

to use it later, Select 'Yes' command Open

Close
Save changes to the document 'My
Pet' before quitting?

or if you do not want to save it, click

Save
Yes No Cancel
Save as
Print
the ''No'' command. Start

Figure 3.11 - Saving a Document before

closing a Window

3.2.3 Let's learn about File Folder

Folders are used to keep files in order.

File of the sportsmeet agenda Folder

File of the budget estimate of the Folder of
sportsmeet sportmeet -
File of the sportsmeet images of the 2018
sportsmeet File and Folder
File of sportsmeet videos

Following facts about folders and the working window will be useful
to you.

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 Symbols like ; < > ... can be used to name a
file or a folder.

Folder and Working Window

A folder
contains files
When you double You can use scroll
like documents,
click on a file or a bars to move the
images, etc.
folder, its content document up and
is displayed on a down as well as
working window. from left to right.

Menu Bar
The menu bar contains Tool Bar
Title Bar
commands to carry The tool bar contains
The name of the
out tasks in a folder, several commands that
file, document or the
a document or a are derived from the
programme will be
programme. menu bar.
shown on the title bar.

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 The active
window is visible
in front of the
other windows
and its title bar is
highlighted.

Multiple working The opened

windows can windows are
be opened displayed as
simultaneously. buttons on the
To switch between windows, click on task bar. The
the relevant window or the button on button related to
the task bar. the active window
is displayed in
another colour.

Create a File

Consider the simple art drawn above. When you close the window, if
you give a command to save it, it creates a file and saves the document.

X
File Edit View Window Help
New
Open
Close
Save
Save as
Print

Start

Figure 3.12 - Creating a File

Activity 4 - See 3.4 in the Workbook.

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Saving a File

X Created files should be saved for reuse.

File Edit View Window Help
New
Save changes to the document 'My
These can be stored in a folder for
convenience and order. Here you can
Open
Close Pet' before quitting?
Save
use the 'Save' or 'Save as' command to
Yes No Cancel
Save as
Print

Start save the file.

When saving the file for the first time,

despite the selected command, the
Figure 3.13 - Saving a File
''Save as'' command window will be
opened.

Here, the operating system suggests a name for the file. The user can
change it and give a suitable name. Also, determining the location of
the file to be stored can be done in the same manner.

X
File Edit View Window Help
New When giving a name to a file, give a
Open
Close
Save name that hints the content of the file.
It makes it easier to find the file easily.
Save as
Print
Start

Figure 3.14 - Selecting a Location and

giving a Name to save a File

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It is not allowed to save two files with the same file name which
are created by the same software in the same folder. The operation
system gives an identity to the file by doing that.
It's also difficult for you to identify several friends who have the
same name. Similaly, the same problem affects the operating system.
Therefore, it does not allow multiple files to be saved under the
same file name in the same folder.

Open a File

To open a saved file, find the file

location and the name. Then,
X
File Edit View Help

click on it.
New
Open
Close
Save
Save as
Print
Start

Figure 3.15 - Opening a File

Edit a File

You will be able to edit the saved

File Edit View Window Help
X file after opening it.
Undo
Cut
Copy
Paste
Here, it should be saved once you
Clear
edit it. For that, 'Save' command
Start can be used. If you want to save
the file in a different location,
then use the 'Save as' command.

Figure 3.16 - Editing a File

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 Activity 5 - See 3.5 in the Workbook.

Summary
³ The operating system is a bridge that connects the user and the
computer.
³ File manipulation is a major function of the operating system.
³ Creating a file, editing and closing a file can be done through an
operating system. In addition, it is possible to maximize, minimize
and resize a window.
³ A file is a collection of data and information whereas a folder is a
collection of files.
³ A file name contains a name and an extension whereas a folder
contains only a name.
To minimize the To restore the Click the maximize
screen click the window, click the button to enlarge the
To close the
minimize button on relevant button on screen and to fit the
window, click the
the top right hand the task bar. window to the entire
close button.
corner of the screen. screen.

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 4 Using Mouse and Keyboard
to use Application Software

There's a computer.
to listen a song, to
type a letter, to draw
a picture, what else
do you need?

4.1 Application Software
Teacher, I would like to draw a picture.
Teacher, I would like to
type a letter.

Teacher, I would like to

listen to a song.
Yes, children, we can do all those things.
There are separate tools (programmes) for
that. We should know about the keyboard and
the mouse to do those things.

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 4.1 Examples for Tasks that can be done by a Computer

Preparing budget reports and

expenditure estimates, etc. Computer Games

Searching
Watching a video information in
internet
Preparing documents (letters,
reports, lesson notes, etc.)
Sending e-mails

Editing pictures
Figure 4.1 - Several Tasks that can be done through a Computer

Various programmes which execute such requirements of the

user are called application software.

4.1.1 Types of Application Software

Application software is mainly divided into two parts. They are;
Application Software

General Purpose Application Software Special Purpose Application Software

Software which is used in computers for Software customized only for user
general requirements of day to day work. specific tasks.
eg: eg:
- Word processing software to prepare letters - Computer games.
and documents. - School management systems
- Spreadsheets software to prepare budget - Library management systems
reports, etc. - Banking management systems
- Web browsers to search information on
the internet.
- Drawing software to draw pictures.

Figure 4.2 - Categorizing Application Software

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 I downloaded a new
App. What do you mean by
an App?

App
Application Software
An app is a type of
application software.
Eg:
Google Map

4.2 Basic Tools needed to use Application Software

When using application software, basically the keyboard and the mouse
are used. Therefore, first of all, you need to get a clear understanding
of the mouse and the keyboard to accomplish various tasks using
application software. You should properly train yourself to use them.
4.2.1 Using the Mouse

Controlling the pointer on the screen can be done by moving the mouse.
Also, opening a file, folder, menu and selecting commands can be done
by clicking the buttons on the mouse.

The arrow mark shown on

the screen is identified as the
mouse pointer or the cursor.

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 Activity 1 - See 4.1 in the Workbook.

Main Parts of a Mouse

Normally, the mouse has a left and a right button and a small wheel in
the middle.
Scroll Wheel
to move up
and down

Left Button Right Button

Figure 4.3 - Main Parts of a Mouse

Activity 2 - See 4.2 in the Workbook.

Let's identify several types of mouse that are in use.

Mouse Wireless Mouse Touch Pad

Figure 4.4 - Examples for Mouse Types

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Functions of the Mouse
Many tasks can be performed on the computer screen with a mouse.
They can be divided into following three categories.
Eg: ² Selecting necessary items
² Opening necessary items
² Moving necessary items
Selecting necessary items

To do this, bring the cursor on to the item

and click the left button once. Then the
item is highlighted.
Start

Opening necessary items

Method I

By double-clicking the left button, you can

open the application or file that represents a
corresponding icon.

Method II

Open Once you click the right button on the

Cut icon, select the 'open' command from the
Copy sub menu.
Paste
Delete

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Moving necessary items
Click the left button, then drag and drop it.

In addition, a mouse scroll is used to move the working

window up and down. Here, a wheel in the mouse is
rotated to move the page up and down.

Let's use the Mouse Properly

When we use the mouse, we need to learn to

hold it properly. Holding the mouse inproperly
can cause pain and difficulty in our hands.

Figure 4.5 - Using the

mouse properly

Figure 4.6 - Using the mouse inproperly

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4.2.2 Keyboard

There are various keyboards such as wired keyboards, wireless

keyboards and touch keyboards.

Figure 4.7 - Keyboard Figure 4.8 - Wireless Keyboard

Figure 4.9 - Touch Keyboard

Types of Keys in the Keyboard and Their Functions

The numeric keys are
located at the top of
the keyboard and at The question
the right corner. mark/fullstop
located at the
right side of the
characters can
To select
be used.
the way of
typing and
formatting

letter keys
arrow keys

Figure 4.10 - Parts of the Keyboard

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There is a vertical
line that appears and Letter keys are used to type letters. Letter-keys are
disappears when you not located in the order of the English alphabet. The
are about to start manner in which the letter keys are located on the
typing on a document keyboard is known as 'QWERTY' layout.
or a box. It is the
cursor.

The cursor shows the location where the typing

starts.

Use the Caps Lock key

After pressing the Caps

lock key once, you can
type in capital letters. caps lock
When you need to type
normally, press the Caps
lock key again.

” Pressing Caps Lock key once

A, C, D
shiftkey
shift
” When you press Caps Lock key
again a, c, d

Use the Shift key

There are two Shift keys on the right and left hand on a
keyboard. When letter keys are pressed while pressing on
the shift key, letters are typed in capital letters. Similarly,
while pressing the Shift key, if you press other keys, the
symbol at the top of the key is typed.
+ A A

+ ?/ ?

Activity 3 - See 4.3 in Workbook.

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 It is used to insert space between words. By pressing this key once, you can get one
Space bar -
space and by pressing it twice, you can get two spaces. Likewise, you can press it
several times to get the needed space.
Eg:- Pressing once. Thank You
Pressing twice. Thank You
Tab key - It is used to insert a large space between words. If you press it once, one space is kept
and by pressing it twice, two spaces can be kept.
Eg:- Pressing once. Thank You
Pressing twice. Thank You

Enter key - This key is used to take the cursor one line below.
Eg:- Pressing once Thank
You
Arrow keys - These keys are used to move the cursor up and down and from right or left.
Backspace key - By pressing this once, one letter, space or a number on the left side is deleted.

Let's use the Keyboard Correctly

When we fail to use the keyboard correctly, it will cause inconvenience
and pain in fingers as well as in the wrists.
The way you should keep your fingers on the keyboard is shown below.

Figure 4.11 - The method of keeping hands on the keyboard correctly

4.3 Let's learn how to use the Application Software

It is intended to provide an understanding about some of the application
software and we look forward to discuss audio and video software in
the forthcoming chapters.

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Graphic Software
At first, art was drawn manually by man.

Later, software was produced to draw pictures using the computer.

Figure 4.12 - A hand drawn painting Figure 4.13 - An art drwan using a computer

Activity 4 - See 4.4 in the Workbook.

Different software is used to create graphics and to draw arts. This

software is known as graphic software.

Adobe Illustrator Microsoft Paint

Figure 4.14 - Examples for Grapic Software

Activity 5 - See 4.5 in the Workbook.

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Word Processing Software
The software we use to create and store documents that are needed in
everyday life is called word processing software.

Figure 4.15 - Examples for Word Processing Software

Activity 6 - See 4.6 in the Workbook.

Audio and Video Editing Software

Today, our school's media club showed us

the video of the Prize Giving ceremony.
They have removed the unnecessary parts
and edited it beautifully. Do you know Yes, you need
how to do it? audio-visual editing
software for that.

Audio-visual editing
software? What is
that?

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Software has been developed to edit audio and video recordings. Many
tasks can be done using this software.
Audio Visual

Hearing Sight

- Audio - Video
Has voice Has voice and images
Eg: Radio Programmes That means, audio-visual
Eg: Television programmes

Among several software which is designed to create and edit audio-

video material, software created to edit audio recordings is known as
audio editing software and software created to edit video recordings is
known as video editing software.

Audacity Adobe Audition Openshot Adobe Premiere Pro

Figure 4.16 - Examples for Audio Editing Figure 4.17 - Examples for Video Editing
Software Software

Activity 7 - See 4.7 in the Workbook.

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Creating Audio-Video Files

Do you mean that by

using a software we
can record what we are
talking now and edit it as Yes, we can edit
required? it using suitable
software.

But, we have to think about a lot of things when

we edit the sound tracks and videos. We cannot
do it as we wish.

It is very important to comply with the ethics in editing audio and video
recordings.

When we record voices

and images of others, their When editing recordings
permission must be obtained. of voices and images
(In case of small children, the of others, they should
permisson of their parents or not be done in a manner
school must be obtained.) as to make them
uncomfortable.
Editing should
not be done in a
manner as to give If edited audio or video files
You should not use are made available, it must
a false idea or a the knowledge of
message. be done by protecting the
editing software for identity of you or relevant
fraudulent purposes. people.

Activity 8 - See 4.8 in the Workbook.

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 Summary
³ Software which is designed to fulfil user requirements is
called application software.
Eg: graphics software, word processing software, audio-
video software
³ Knowledge of the keyboard and the mouse is important to
use application software.
³ Right button, left button and scroll wheel are the main parts
of a mouse.

Scroll wheel

Left button Right button

The numeric keys are

located at the top of
the keyboard and at The question
the right corner. mark/fullstop
located at the
right side of
To select the characters
the way of can be used.
typing and
formatting

letter keys arrow keys

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 5 Algorithm and Flow Charts

5.1 Process of Solving Practical Problems

Imagine that a group of relatives have arrived when you were alone in
the house. You need to serve them some tea. Here, you should prepare
a cup of tea by following different steps.
On another occasion, you will have to make a fruit salad for a dessert
or make a birthday cake. On all these occasions, you need to solve
problems. Compare it with calculating the area of a rectangle during
your mathematics lesson.
When we have a certain aim, we do certain activities to achieve it. In
our day to day life, we often solve problems.

5.1.1 Problem Solving

The problem needs to be analyzed well before solving it. Then you can
get a good understanding of how to solve the problem. The process of
problem solving has an input, an outcome and a process.

Input - Things to be included to solve the problem.

Process - Guidelines to be followed to solve the problem.
Output - The result you get after solving the problem.

Thus, you will understand that processing content according to a recipe

is known as solving problems.

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Example: 1
The input, process and output of preparing a fruit salad is as follows.

Input - a variety of fruits

Process - washing fruits, cutting fruit, mixing
Output - Fruit salad

Example: 2
The input, process and output of finding the area of a rectangle are as
follows.
Input - the length and the width of the rectangle
Process - length x width
Output - area of the rectangle

Activity 01 - See 5.1 in the Workbook.

5.2 Algorithm
If you are able to prepare a cup of tea, tie the shoe lace correctly, or put
on the school uniform correctly, then you know how to use an algorithm.

Preparing a Put on school

cup of tea uniform correctly

Making a cake Preparing a

fruit salad

Figure 5.1 - Some instances in daily life where we use algorithms

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5.2.1 What is an algorithm?

Algorithm
A method that includes all the steps of solving a problem in order is
known as an algorithm.

Example 1
Steps to create a fruits salad are as follows.
Step 01 Finding various kinds of
fruits

Step 02 Washing all the fruits well

Step 03 Cutting fruits into small

pieces

Step 04 Putting the pieces of fruit

into a bowl
Step 05 Add sugar and mix

Step 06 Serve the fruit salad in

bowls

It's important to write the steps sequentially in an algorithm. Think

about what will happen if the sixth step is done as the second step. All
the fruits mixed with sugar should be washed again.

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Therefore, it is important to write the steps of an algorithm sequentially.

5.2.2 Writing Algorithm

When writing an algorithm in a standard way, every algorithm must

have a start and an end. Therefore, it is compulsory to include an initial
step and a final step in writing an algorithm in addition to the normal
steps.

Example 1

The algorithm for making a chocolate cake

Step 01 Start
Step 02 Clean and wash the baking tray and other bowls
Step 03 Dissolve chocolate
Step 04 Mix wheat flour and baking powder
Step 05 Beat butter until it gets creamy. While beating, add sugar
little by little
Step 06 Add the eggs one by one to the sugar and butter mixture
and beat it. Then add the flour mixture little by little.
Step 07 Add the dissolved chocolate
Step 08 Add milk
Step 09 Put the mixture into the baking tray and bake it
Step 10 Let it cool after baking
Step 11 Decorate as you wish and serve it
Step 12 End

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Example 2
Algorithm to find the area of a rectangle.
Steps 01 Start
Steps 02 Get the length of the rectangle
Steps 03 Get the width of the rectangle
Steps 04 Area = length x width
Steps 05 Get the area of the rectangle
Steps 06 End

Activity 02 - See 5.2 in the Workbook.

5.3 Flow Chart

A flow chart is a graphical representation of the algorithmic steps.
Here, standard symbols are used to show each action.

Symbol Usage
Used to indicate the start and the end.

Eg: End

Used to indicate the input and the

output.
Eg:
Entering student's marks

Serving Fruit Salad

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 Used to show an action/a process

Eg: Adding eggs one by one to the mixture of sugar

and butter and beating it.

Area = length x width

Used to indicate an instance of decision

Yes making.

Is the first number is Yes

No greater than second
number?

No

It is used to indicate the direction of

data flow.

Activity 03 - See 5.3 in the Workbook.

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Example 01

Drawing the flow chart for making a fruit salad using the above symbols
is given below.

Here the symbols related to start, end input out and process are used.

Start

Getting various fruits

Wash fruits well

Cut fruits into small pieces

Put the fruit pieces into a bowl

Add sugar and mix

Serve the prepared fruit salad

End

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Example 02

The flow chart for finding the area of a rectangle is given below.

Start

Get the length of the rectangle

Get the width of the rectangle

Multiply length and width to obtain the area

Find the area

End

Activity 04 - See 5.4 in the Workbook.

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 Summary
³ Before the problem is resolved, it needs to be analyzed well.
³ There is an input, output and a process when solving a problem.
³ Things we feed to solve the problem are identified as the
'input', the steps to be followed when solving a problem are
identified as the 'process', and the result we get after solving
the problem is named as the 'output'.
³ A method set out in order including all the steps needed to
solve any problem is identified as an algorithm.
³ A standard algorithm must have a start and an end.
³ A flow chart is a graphical representation of the algorithmic
steps. Specific symbols are used to indicate each action.

³ shape is used to indicate the start and the end.

³ shape is used to indicate the input and the output.

³ shape is used to indicate the process.

³ shape is used to indicate the decision taken.

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 6 Using the Internet for collecting
Information and Communication

6.1 Let's learn about the Internet

Brother, our teacher said that
we can find information on
sea creatures from the internet.
What do you mean by the
internet? The internet is a large
collection of computer
networks.

The internet is made up of a large number of computers and computer

networks around the world.

Two or more A large number

Computer Internet
interconnected of interconnected
computers Network
computer networks

There are a wide range of services available on the internet reading

such as reading newspapers, bill payments, online shopping, exchange
of letters and watching television.

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6.2 Accessing Internet

So brother, how can

we use the internet to
We need a web
find information?
browser to use the
internet.

A web browser?

A website or a web page is

opened in a web browser. A web
browser is a software that can
be used to open a web page or a
Web Site?? website on the internet.
Web Page??

There are a large number of websites

on the internet. They are made up of
web pages. There are many things on
a webpage including images, videos,
audio files texts and more.

http://www.e-thaksalawa.moe.gov.lk

Alright.

Figure 6.1 - Model of a Web Page

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6.2.1 Web Browser

You open a website or a web page in a web browser. The software used
to open websites and webpages on the internet is the web browser.

Eg:

Google Chrome Internet Explorer Mozilla Firefox

6.2.2 Use of Web Browsers

To use a web browser, the computer should be connected to the internet.

Normally a web browser can

be opened via a shortcut on the
Start
desktop.

The address bar can be seen on the top of

the web browser's interface. Address bar

If you want to open a website, you need to enter an address

in the address bar.
Bring the cursor on to the address bar and click on it. Then
enter the address directly. Then press the enter key.

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Eg: Accessing the website of the Ministry of Education

www.moe.gov.lk

Figure 6.2 - Website of the Ministry of Education

If you have typed the address previously, it will be displayed. Hence,

bring the cursor and click on it.

Figure 6.3 - Address Bar

There is a toolbar in the web browser. These toolbars can be used to

change websites and update web pages.

File Edit View Favorites Tools Help

Back

Address http://www.edupub.gov.lk

Figure 6.4 - Web Address of the Educational Publications Department

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 Back
You can return to the
You can access the web pages that you
first page of the web have already viewed by
browser by clicking clicking the button.
the button. The
button is shown in Home By clicking the
Back
the form of a house. button, you can go
Forward back to the web
page that you were
History
looking at before
you clicked the
By clicking the Refresh back button.
button, you can
access the directory By clicking the button,
of websites and you can update the
web pages you have website you are
previously seen. currrently on.
Figure 6.5 - Some Buttons in a Web Browser

6.3 Obtaining Information from Educational Websites

Brother, now you know a
lot about the internet, web Yes, thank you very
browser, etc. much. Will you help me
to find information about
sea creatures too?

Well, there are a lot of

educational websites on the
internet. We can find many
That means we enter
things that we need for our
the address of the website
studies by using them.
in the address bar of the
web browser? And then
we find what we need?
Exactly brother.

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There are a lot of educational websites on the internet and we can get
many information regarding our studies. In order to enter a website the
address of the web site should be entered in the address bar of the web
browser.
Example : www.bbc.com/bitesize

6.4 Let's learn about Search Engines

Brother,
do we need to remember all the
addresses of websites to find
information? No. No.We can also
find information using
search engines as we
access websites.

Please tell me
about that too.

A search engines is a software that can be used to find information on the internet.
This gives you a list of websites related to the facts that we are searching for.

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Use of Search Engines

Book Rack
Sri Lankan History 1
Our Civilization 1 3
Anuradhapura
Polonnaruwa Era 2
Sri Lankan History 2 6

Can I find
information on the
history of Sri Lanka?

To assist Yalini to find information, the librarian should know the books about the history of
Sri Lanka and know the location of books.
In the end, a list of names of the books and the place where the books are placed will be
provided.
Can I find
information on
the history of
Sri Lanka?

Sri Lankan kings history 5

Kingdom of Dambadeniya 2
Anuradhapura period 1
Kingdom of Sitawaka 6
Polonnaruwa period 8
List of Sri Lankan monarchs 3
History of Asia
Crisis of the Sixteenth Century 4
Sri Lanka History 2
Names of Sri Lanka 9
Prehistory of Sri Lanka 2

To help Anne to find the information, the search engine should know about websites or web
pages that contain information on the history of Sri Lanka and they should also know the
location of websites or webpages.
In the end, a list of names and addresses of websites will be available to help you find relevant
websites or web addresses.

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There are a large number of websites and web pages on the internet.
Search engines can search anything such as recipes, news, history,
science, education, etc. on those sites.
Search engines are needed to find what is most productive on the
internet.
A search engine efficiently scans thousands of websites and web pages
and process them.
² Examples for search engines;
Google - www.google.com
Yahoo - www.yahoo.com
Bing - www.bing.com

Figure 6.6 - Search Engines

Opening and Using Search Engines

To use search engines, you need to open the web browser that is installed
in a computer.
The address of the search engine must be entered in the address bar.

You can enter the search engine by clicking the key on the
address bar or by pressing key on the keyboard.

There is a search box or a search field in a search engine.

Enter the key words relevant to the information and click the
search button.

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Your search results are shown as a list of websites and links. It will
show a list of the most popular or the most suitable websites or links on
the top. From that, you need to select the relevant site and click on the
link to view it.

The keywords are the simplest and straightforward terms of what you
are looking for.
For example,
Think that you need to search about the history of Sri Lanka. You can
use
'History Sri Lanka' as a key word.

Tips for making Search Results more effective

The following short tips can be used to make your search more effective:
• Use keywords. Do not use complete sentences/questions.
Eg: 'I need the history of Sri Lanka'.

You should type 'Sri Lankan History' or 'History Sri Lanka' instead of
'I need the History of Sri Lanka'.

• If you cannot find what you require, try using a different word or a
different expression.

Figure 6.7 - Search Information using a Search Engine

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 Activity 1 - See 6.1 in Workbook

In some searches, it will show hundreds of web pages irrelevant to

your search. Be careful when selecting your search terms to avoid that.
Your search engine will give an accurate result when your word is more
appropriate.
1. Use inverted commas ('' '') for a clause with several words.

2. Removing unnecessary words
Do not use words that are not relevant to your search. Do not use
words like '' how, and, in, to, as''. Use the names of people, places or
things you want to find.

3. When you want to use more than one main word. Connect the words
with '+' . For example, when you need to see the beautiful places in
Kandy,
It is better to use

4& To remove unnecessary facts

Use '-' in front of the unwanted word. For example, when you
are searching for information about Wimbledon, it would show
information on tennis too. So to remove details about tennis, use;

5. When looking for an image about something, select the 'image'

command of the search engine to search what you need.

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 6.4 Let's use the Internet Safely

Tell me how to protect

ourselves when using the Well, I will. Before that,
internet. do you know why we need
to be safe when we use the
internet?

Yes, I know. Some

people use the internet
for harmful and
dishonest practices. We
have to protect ourselves
from those when we use
the internet.

Exactly, there are various

safety measures. The primary
thing among them is access
administration.

The access administration is following different measures to access

the internet safely and with a control. When we are using the internet,
we interconnect with various computer networks and various websites
around the world. Thus, it can influence our computer in many ways.

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6.4.1 Provide Usernames and Passwords when Accessing
Websites

In some cases, it is necessary to register usernames and passwords when

accessing certain websites to obtain specific information.

Your username should not be your name. You can safeguard you identity
by giving another word as the username. It should be memorable and
shouldn't be easy for someone else to guess.

For a better password, use a password with letters and numbers. It's
identified as a strong password.

Eg: Not a suitable password - password

saman 123
Suitable password - be220mmb*
Sama89agu@

• It's safer to use different passwords for different websites.

• It is important to log out when you leave a website after using the username
and password to log on.
• Do not give your password to anyone else.

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6.4.2 Use E-mail Safely

Individuals can send e-mail messages in order to access personal

information, such as bank account details. We can also receive e-mails
containing advertisements that are sent to thousands of people for
commercial purposes.

Here are some steps you can follow to safeguard e-mails.

• Be careful when opening e-mails sent by unknown people.

• Avoid replying those e-mails and prevent from accessing links in
them.
• Avoid providing information to any institution who request them
through e-mails without inquring about them.

6.4.3 Doing Safe Online Transactions

One of the important uses of the internet is that we can do online

transactions and purchase goods.
But, you should be very careful. In order to purchase goods, you must
use most reliable websites and you must do payments through safe
methods.

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 It's important to follow the directions and instructions of those who have good
knowledge about using the internet. At present, there is an increase in the
fraudulent acts on the internet.

Be sure to get the help and guidance of your teachers, parents, or adults
whenever you access the internet. It will make your browsing time more
productive, satisfying and safe.

Activity 2 - See 6.2 in the Workbook.

Summary
³ The internet is a collection of a large number of computer
networks.
³ There are a number of internet services that can be used to
exchange information and web is one of the services.
³ Documents, pictures, videos and sounds can be exchanged
through web and they are stored as webpages.
A website is created using web pages. A web address is used
to identify a website.

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³ The software used to look up web pages is the web browser.
³ Search engines are used to find information.
³ The service used to send messages via the internet is e-mail.
³ You can use the internet to make transactions and use secure
web addresses only.
³ Differences between a web browser and a search engine:

Web Browser Search Engine

It is a software used to access It is a programme used to find
websites through the internet information needed from a vast
and view the web pages. collection of information on the
internet. This requires a web
browser.

The web address is used to The words or phrases are used to

access the website. find information.
Related website is opened. Provides a list of relevant websites.
You must select the suitable website
to find the relevant information.

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