Big idea. A computer repeats one simple cycle of fetching, decoding and executing instructions, and an operating system shares that power among many programs.
Outcomes served. O7 (explain how hardware and an operating system run programs).
Plan your six hours
| Part | Minutes |
|---|---|
| Opener and orientation (this page) | 15 |
| M7.L1 Parts of a computer | 55 |
| M7.L2 Memory, storage and units | 50 |
| M7.L3 Running instructions | 50 |
| M7.L4 The operating system | 50 |
| Practice set | 35 |
| Lab: Trace, size and share | 50 |
| Mastery checkpoint | 30 |
| Discussion prompt and recap | 25 |
| Total | 360 (6 hours) |
Assumed. Modules 1 to 6: methods, binary data, conditions, searching and sorting, cost and functions. Binary and bytes from Module 2 are used directly.
Where this topic appears in practice. When a laptop feels slow, a phone runs out of space or an update is requested, you are meeting these ideas. Knowing the difference between memory and storage, and what an operating system does, makes support advice and buying decisions clearer. See the encyclopedia entry on the computer.
Privacy. Your answers stay with you. This course does not store, collect or send anything you write or tick.