Intro To Computers
Intro To Computers
hardware
software
peripheral device
desktop
laptop
Introduction to Computers 1
What is a Computer System?
A computer system has three main parts:
• hardware
• software
• people
Hardware is the equipment. It is the physical parts. It includes the parts you can see and some
parts that you can’t see. Hardware includes the processor, memory, storage, communication
ports and peripheral devices. Peripheral devices are connected to the computer. Some
examples are the display, the keyboard, a mouse, speakers, or a printer. The processor is what
makes the computer work. It is like the “brains” of the computer.
Software is a set of instructions or a computer program that tells the hardware what to do. The
operating system of a computer is one type of software. There are also thousands of other
types of software programs that you can use on a computer. Some of the most common
software programs you might use are Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat. Software is written by
a computer programmer.
People use the software to tell the computer what they want it to do for them.
There are different types of computers. They can have different computing power, capacity,
size, mobility and other factors. Some different types of computers are:
• desktop computers
• laptop computers
• minicomputers
• handheld computers and devices
• mainframes or supercomputers
Introduction to Computers 2
You are probably using a desktop computer or a laptop computer.
• A desktop computer has a few • All the parts are combined in a laptop
different parts. computer.
• A desktop computer needs to have a • A laptop computer can be moved
place to sit. It usually sits on a desk around. You can even have it on your
which is why it is called a desktop. lap which is why it is called a laptop
• A desktop computer needs to be computer.
plugged in to work. • A desktop computer has a built-in
battery. You need to plug a laptop
computer into a power source to
charge the battery. If the battery is
charged, you can use it unplugged.
• Sometimes laptop computers are
called notebook computers.
What are two differences between a desktop computer and a laptop computer?
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Introduction to Computers 3
Computers are used in all parts of our lives today. We use computers in the workplace, in
school settings and in our everyday lives.
Examples of Computers at Work
Discussion Question
Can you think of any other examples?
Introduction to Computers 4
Assignments are usually done on a computer.
Discussion Question
Can you think of any other examples?
Examples of Computers in our Everyday Lives
Discussion Question
Can you think of any other examples?
Introduction to Computers 5
3.
Share your answers with the group.
(March 2020)
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Introduction to Computers 6