How Computers Work: What Makes a Computer, a Computer?

What are the four tasks that all computers need to perform?

• Take input, store information, process it, and output the results

• Move physical things, manipulate information, solve equations, and track stars

• Design thinking machines, manipulate numbers, talk to each other, and control robots

• Use keyboards, mice, microphones, and cameras to interact with the world

What were the earliest computers made of?

• Wood and metal with mechanical levers and gears

• Electrical components and flashing lights

• Basic calculators and large rooms

• Clunky machines and slow processors

What is the purpose of input in a computer?

• To provide information to the computer

• To manipulate and change information

• To display text, photos, and videos

• To control robots and connect over the internet

What does a computer's processor do?

• Manipulates and changes information using algorithms

• Takes in information and stores it in memory

• Outputs information to control a robot

• Connects over the internet with other computers

How does a computer output information?

• Through a display showing text, photos, and videos

• By listening to the car or sensing your finger

• By connecting over the internet with other computers

• By taking input from keyboards, mice, and cameras

What is the main purpose of computers today?

• To perform the same four tasks: take input, store information, process it, and output the results

• To manipulate physical things like dirt and stone

• To solve equations and track stars in the sky

• To design thinking machines and control robots

What is the hope for the computers of tomorrow?

• To be designed by people to look like what they want

• To be used for DJing, dancing, and playing games

• To be made out of wood and metal with mechanical levers and gears

• To be large and slow, taking hours to do basic math problems

What makes a computer a computer?

• Performing the four tasks: take input, store information, process it, and output the results

• Being able to manipulate physical things like dirt and stone

• Having a keyboard, mouse, microphone, and camera

• Being able to talk to each other and control robots

What do all computers have in common?

• They take in information, store it as data, process it, and output the results

• They manipulate physical things, solve equations, and track stars

• They use keyboards, mice, microphones, and cameras to interact with the world

• They are always doing the same four things: take input, store information, process it, and output the results

What is the reading level of this quiz?

• Grade 8

• Grade 6

• Grade 10

• Grade 12