IT Skills Assignment
IT Skills Assignment
Name: ____________________________
Student ID: ________________________
Date: ______________________________
(a) Define the term computer and describe its primary functions. (5 Marks)
A computer is an electronic device that processes data and performs operations based on
programmed instructions. It is used for tasks such as calculations, data management,
communication, and entertainment.
1. Input – Accepts data from input devices (e.g., keyboard, mouse, scanner).
3. Storage – Saves data for later use (e.g., hard drive, SSD, USB).
4. Output – Displays or produces results using output devices (e.g., monitor, printer,
speakers).
(b) Differentiate between hardware and software, providing two examples of each. (5 Marks)
Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system, while software consists
of programs and instructions that enable the computer to perform tasks.
Examples of Hardware:
1. Monitor – Displays visual output.
2. Keyboard – Used to input text and commands.
Examples of Software:
1. Microsoft Word – Word processing software.
2. Windows OS – Operating system that manages hardware and software.
(c) Discuss common troubleshooting steps for issues like slow performance or connectivity
problems in classrooms. (5 Marks)
1. Restart the computer to clear temporary files and refresh system memory.
(d) Explain how operating systems (e.g., Windows, macOS) support teaching tasks. (5 Marks)
Operating systems provide tools that help teachers perform daily tasks efficiently. For
example:
• Lesson Planning: Microsoft Word and Google Docs help in creating lesson plans.
• Communication & Collaboration: Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams enable online
teaching.
(a) Identify and explain the role of the four basic components of a computer system. (5 Marks)
1. Input Devices – Allow users to enter data (e.g., keyboard, mouse).
(b) Discuss the function of an operating system and name two commonly used operating
systems. (5 Marks)
An operating system (OS) manages hardware and software resources. It provides a user
interface, manages files, and handles security. Examples include:
• Embedded Systems – Built into other devices (e.g., ATMs, medical equipment).
(b) Explain three practical uses of computers in the teaching profession. (10 Marks)
1. Online Learning & Virtual Classrooms – Google Classroom and Zoom facilitate remote
teaching.
2. Student Records & Grading – Excel and school management software help maintain
records.
(a) Create a new folder named "IT Skills Assignment" on your desktop. (5 Marks)
Steps:
1. Right-click on the desktop.
2. Click New > Folder.
3. Name it 'IT Skills Assignment'.
(b) Create three subfolders named "Documents", "Images", and "Videos". (5 Marks)
Steps:
1. Open 'IT Skills Assignment'.
2. Right-click inside and select New > Folder.
3. Create three folders named 'Documents', 'Images', and 'Videos'.
(c) Move an existing document file into the “Documents” folder and take a screenshot. (5
Marks)
Steps:
1. Locate a document file.
2. Right-click and select Move to > Documents.
3. Open 'Documents' to confirm.
4. Take a screenshot.
(d) Compress the “IT Skills Assignment” folder into a ZIP file. (5 Marks)
Steps:
1. Right-click the 'IT Skills Assignment' folder.
2. Select Send to > Compressed (zipped) folder.
3. A ZIP file will be created.