8_2_5

Activity 1 - READ

A computer system is made up of hardware and software. Hardware is the physical components that make up a computer system and software is the non-physical components. A simple way to look at this is to view the IPOS model below:

Note: You can re-visit the meaning of Input and Output in the 8_2_1 outcome.

Input sends data into the system.

Process decides what to do with the input.

Storage is divided into two types:

• Primary - RAM and CACHE (used to store essential instructions that are being used by the system)
• Secondary - Stores files that are needed for the system (e.g. the operating system, applications and work files)

Output sends information out to the user.

Activity 2

Watch this video to learn key information about this outcome:

Create an animation to show how computer system components communicate with one another .

There is a fun idea for a class simulation of a computer here:

• https://sites.google.com/site/childrenandtechnology/presentation-3-simulate-computer

CS unplugged is currently writing materials for a similar activity on their site and hopefully this will be published soon.