Lesson 3
What Makes Something a Computer?
In this unplugged lesson, students will first explore hardware that controls input and output on a computer. Then, students will learn about software and troubleshooting as they finish reading Journey Inside the Computer. Lastly, students will complete their paper computer by adding a keyboard and software.
Agenda
Agenda
- Ask: "What are the 5 hardware components we found inside the computer? What did they each contribute to how the computer runs?"
- Activity: Input or Output?
- Read: Journey Inside the Computer Ch. 6-7 (pgs. 34-43)
- Activity: Hardware or Software?
- Activity: Complete your Paper Computer! (Part 2 of 2)
- Reflection & Close-Out:
- What new things did Ruby discover inside the computer?
- How did Ruby finally solve her big problem? Have you ever solved a really big problem like Ruby?
- What part of the computer you created today are you most proud of?
Materials
Materials
- Hello Ruby Journey Inside the Computer book
- Hardware/Software slidedeck
- Input/Output/Store/Process Activity optional
- projector, connected to a computer
- My First Computer handout: 8.5x11 / 11x17
- scissors
- glue or tape
- other art supplies (optional)
Vocabulary
Vocabulary
computer science: a field in which people use the power of computers to solve big problems
Additional Resources
Additional Resources
- Additional lesson guidance: My First Computer
- Computer Parts Vocabulary (teacher-created resource)
- Input/Output game from ABCya
- Video: Learning about computers with Hello Ruby (3:23)
- Technology Brain Break: choose a video from this list!
Standards
Standards
CA CSS: K-2.CS.2 Explain the functions of common hardware and software components of computing systems.