💻 What is a Computer?
Hardware & Software
Digital Literacy
A computer is a machine that helps us do many things. We can use it to write, draw, play games, watch videos, learn new things, and more!
But what really is a computer? How does it work? Let’s find out together in this simple lesson.
🧠 A computer is a smart machine
A computer doesn’t think by itself. It follows instructions very fast — millions every second! These instructions are given by programs.
💡 Tip: A computer only does what we tell it to. It can’t guess or decide alone!
⚡ Computers need electricity
Just like a lamp or a TV, a computer needs power to work. If it’s not plugged in or charged, it can’t turn on or do anything.
⚡ Fun fact: Some computers use batteries, like laptops and tablets. Others stay plugged in, like desktops.
🧠 The brain of the computer: the processor
Inside the computer, there is a part called the processor. It’s like the computer’s brain. It reads instructions and makes decisions very fast.
- 🧮 It does calculations
- 🧾 It follows steps in order
- 🧭 It controls what happens on screen
💡 Tip: The processor is also called the CPU (Central Processing Unit).
🧰 The parts we use
We use different parts to control the computer. Here are the most common:
- ⌨️ Keyboard: for typing
- 🖱️ Mouse: for clicking and moving
- 🖥️ Screen: to see everything
- 🔊 Speakers: for sound
🎯 Quiz
To complete this lesson, you must get at least 80% correct. Good luck!
🧠 What should you remember?
- 💻 A computer is a machine that follows instructions
- ⚡ It needs electricity to work
- 🧠 The processor (CPU) is like the brain of the computer
- ⌨️ You control it with the keyboard, mouse, and screen
- 📦 It only does what it’s told — no more, no less!