Windows Navigation
for Grade 5
This section will teach you how to navigate a computer using the
Windows operating system. We will cover topics such as the
desktop, start menu, file folders, and applications.
What is a Computer?
Powerful Tool Parts of a Computer
Computers are powerful tools that let you access A computer consists of different parts, like the monitor,
information, create content, and connect with others. keyboard, mouse, and central processing unit (CPU).
They can be used for learning, playing games, and Each part plays an important role in making the
much more. computer work.
Introduction to the
Windows Operating
System
1 Interface 2 Programs
The Windows operating Windows enables you to
system is what allows you run different programs or
to interact with your applications, such as web
computer. It provides a browsers, word
graphical interface with processors, and games.
icons, menus, and These programs perform
windows. specific tasks.
3 File Management
Windows helps you organize and manage your files and
folders, so you can easily find and access the information
you need.
Navigating the Windows
Desktop
Mouse Keyboard
The mouse is a pointing device The keyboard allows you to type
used to control the cursor on the text, numbers, and symbols. It also
screen. You can click, double-click, has special keys for navigating the
and drag with the mouse. desktop.
Icons Taskbar
Icons represent files, folders, and The taskbar shows you the open
applications. You can click on them windows and applications. You can
to open them or double-click them click on an icon to switch between
to run them. windows.
Using the Start Menu
Start Button
1
Programs
2
The Start menu provides access to all of the programs installed on your computer.
Settings
3
You can adjust various settings for your computer, such as the display, sound, and date/time.
Search
4
The search bar lets you quickly find files, folders, and applications.
Power Options
5
You can shut down, restart, or log out of your computer.
Exploring File Folders
and Directories
1 Files
Files are digital documents, images, music, or other types
of data. They are stored on your computer.
2 Folders
Folders are containers that help you organize your files.
They can be nested within other folders, creating a
hierarchical structure.
3 Directories
Directories are like "maps" that show you the location of
your files and folders within your computer's storage.
Launching and Closing
Applications
Launch
To launch an application, click on its icon or choose it
from the Start menu.
Open Window
The application will open in a separate window, allowing
you to use it.
Close
To close an application, click on the "X" button in the top
right corner of the window.
Multitasking with
Multiple Windows
Multiple Programs Switching Windows
Windows allows you to have You can switch between
multiple programs open at windows using the taskbar
the same time. or by clicking on the title
bar of each window.
Task Manager
The Task Manager allows you to see all running programs and
processes. It lets you close or restart programs.
Customizing the Windows
Interface
1 2
Wallpaper Themes
Change the background image of Themes change the colors, sounds,
your desktop to make it visually and icons of your Windows
appealing. interface.
3 4
Taskbar Start Menu
You can customize the location and Personalize the Start menu to
appearance of the taskbar to suit display the applications you use
your preferences. most frequently.
Online Safety and Responsible
Computing
Always be cautious when browsing the internet and sharing personal information. Use strong passwords and be
aware of phishing scams.
Launching Applications
Click the Start Button
Locate and click the Start button, usually found in the bottom-left corner of your screen.
Find Your Program
Search for the name of your program in the Start menu's search bar.
Click the App Icon
Click the icon of the program to launch it. The program will now open in its own window.
Opening Another Window
Steps to Open Another Window:
1. Click on the Start button.
2. Find the program you want to open and click on its icon.
3. The program will open in a new window.
If you want to open several programs at the same time,
that's called multitasking. You can switch between
these windows using the taskbar at the bottom of your
screen. You can also click on the title bar of each
window to bring it to the front.
Closing a Window
1. Click the close button (X) in the top-right corner of the window.
2. Alternatively, press Alt + F4 on your keyboard.
3. If you have unsaved changes, you might see a prompt asking if you want to save before closing. Choose accordingly.
Minimizing a Window
1 Click the Minimize 2 Click the Button 3 Restore the Window
Button
Clicking this button will shrink To see the window again,
Look for a small square button the window down to the simply click on its icon in the
(or a dash "-") in the upper- taskbar at the bottom of the taskbar.
right corner of the window. screen.
Restoring and Maximizing Windows
Restoring a Minimized Window Maximizing a Window
1. Click the window's icon on the taskbar. 1. Click the maximize button (a square with an
2. The window will reappear in its previous size. upward-pointing arrow) in the upper-right corner of
2. the
The window.
window will expand to fill the entire screen.
3. To return to the previous size, click the restore
button (a square with two overlapping rectangles).
these are used for maximizing and minimizing the windows, they are found at the top right corner.
Congratulations! You've completed the
Windows Navigation guide.
We hope this guide has helped you learn the basics of navigating the Windows operating system. Remember to
practice regularly to build your skills and confidence.
