Get in gear

In this lesson, we will focus on what sets computing systems apart from other purpose-built machinery: it is their ability to execute programs that allows them to modify their operation and perform different tasks, and thus become our most versatile 'tool for thought'.

Video

Click on the play button to start the video. If your teacher asks you to pause the video and look at the worksheet you should:

  • Click "Close Video"
  • Click "Next" to view the activity

Your video will re-appear on the next page, and will stay paused in the right place.

Worksheet

These slides will take you through some tasks for the lesson. If you need to re-play the video, click the ‘Resume Video’ icon. If you are asked to add answers to the slides, first download or print out the worksheet. Once you have finished all the tasks, click ‘Next’ below.

This quiz includes images that don't have any alt text - please contact your teacher who should be able to help you with an audio description.

Unit quizzes are being retired in August 2023

Why we're removing unit quizzes from the website >
Quiz:

Get in gear

This quiz is to assess your learning from this lesson.

Q1.The word software simply means

1/3

Q2.Which of the following is an example of a program to write documents?

2/3

Q3.What is the purpose of a general-purpose computer?

3/3

This quiz includes images that don't have any alt text - please contact your teacher who should be able to help you with an audio description.

Unit quizzes are being retired in August 2023

Why we're removing unit quizzes from the website >
Quiz:

Get in gear

This quiz is to assess your learning from this lesson.

Q1.The word software simply means

1/3

Q2.Which of the following is an example of a program to write documents?

2/3

Q3.What is the purpose of a general-purpose computer?

3/3

Lesson summary: Get in gear

It looks like you have not completed the quiz.

To share your results with your teacher please complete the quiz.

Time to move!

Did you know that exercise helps your concentration and ability to learn?

For 5 mins...

Move around:
Jog

On the spot:
Dance

The next lesson in:
Computing systems
is:
Under the hood

Browse Oak's lessons: