The big ideaA computer is a machine that follows instructions from people.
How it works
A computer is a machine with a tiny chip inside.
It follows instructions, which are the steps people give it. It does not think or wish.
It comes in many sizes, and it needs power to wake up.
A computer, or not.
Example 1: Is it a computer?
A tablet has a tiny chip and follows steps, so it is a computer.
A spoon has no chip and no steps, so it is not a computer.
Example 2: The dark tablet
Nia taps, but the screen stays dark.
The cable is not plugged in, and a computer needs power to wake up.
Grandpa plugs it in, and the screen glows.
Example 3: Who picks the song?
Nia taps the song picture. That tap is her instruction.
The tablet follows it, and music plays.
Nia picked the song, not the tablet.
Example 4: A computer hunt
Look for things with a chip, like a tablet, a phone or a game player.
Then look for things that are not computers, like a spoon or a ball.
Ask each one: does it follow steps?
Words to know
computer
A machine that follows instructions from people.
chip
The tiny part inside that follows the steps.
instruction
A step someone gives.
power
What a computer needs to wake up.
Watch out
A ball or a spoon has no chip, so it is not a computer.
Bo has a computer inside him too.
A computer needs power. A dark screen may just need a plug.
A computer does what we tell it. It does not decide on its own.
Try it
Is a laptop a computer?
Is a spoon a computer?
What did the tablet need to wake up?
Who picked the song, the tablet or Nia?
Answers: 1. Yes · 2. No · 3. Power from a plug · 4. Nia
Try at homeWith a grown-up, go on a computer hunt. Find things with a chip inside, like a tablet, a phone, a laptop or a game player. Then find things that are not computers, like a spoon or a ball. Say why: does it follow steps?
For grown-upsGo on a computer hunt at home: find things with a chip, like a tablet or a phone, and things that are not computers, like a spoon. For each one, ask: does it follow steps?
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