Y7 - SP2.5 - Introducing Software

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Lesson 5 - Spring Term 2 - Introducing Software


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(1) Explain why solid state drives are less prone to malfunction than magnetic hard disk drives

(2) Explain why we even need secondary storage in the first place

🎯 Learning Objectives

  • LO1: Identify the different types of software used in a computer system.
  • LO2: Describe the roles of operating systems, application software, and utility software.

📖 Everybody Reads

Introducing Software

  • Software is anything non-physical that runs on the computer
  • It requires the physical hardware of the computer in order to run it
  • Examples of software include operating systems (that run a computer), applications (apps) and utilities (that maintain the computer)

📖 Everybody Reads

Programs

  • Any item of software is often called a program
  • For the CPU to be able to execute each instruction of a program it must be loaded into the primary memory
  • When not in use, programs are kept in the secondary storage (such as an Solid State Drive or a Hard Disk Drive)

Introducing Software - Mind Map Activity

📖 Everybody Reads

  • We will now explore the different types of software
  • A computer system needs all of them in order to function effectively

💻 Operating Systems

  • An Operating System (OS) is the most important piece of system software
  • It manages the computer’s hardware and allows other software to run
  • It provides a user interface so users can interact with the computer
  • Examples include Windows, macOS, Linux and Android

📖 What Does an Operating System Do?

  • Provides a user interface so people can control the computer
  • Manages memory (RAM) and running programs
  • Controls hardware devices such as printers and keyboards
  • Handles file management so files can be stored and easily organised

🧑‍💻 Application Software

  • Application software allows users to perform specific tasks
  • These programs run on top of the operating system
  • Examples include word processors, spreadsheets, web browsers and games
  • They are designed to help users complete real-world tasks

🧰 Utility Software

  • Utility software helps to maintain, manage and protect a computer system
  • They ensure the computer runs efficiently and securely
  • Examples include antivirus software, disk defragmenters and backup tools
  • Utilities support the operating system and keep the system healthy

Independent Task

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📝 Independent Activity (Software Types)

Instructions:

  • Write a short definition for the following types of software:
      Operating System
      Application Software
      Utility Software
  • For each type, give two examples (for example: Windows, Microsoft Word, Antivirus software).
  • Explain why each type of software is important

Sentence Starters
  • An operating system is...
  • An example of an operating system is...
  • Application software is...
  • An example of application software is...
  • Utility software is...
  • An example of utility software is...
  • This type of software is important because...

Extension Challenge

Answer the following questions in full sentences:

  • Explain the difference between system software and application software.
  • Describe two tasks that an operating system performs.
  • Explain how a particular type ofutility software helps maintain a computer system.
  • A computer has application software installed but no operating system. Explain what would happen.

Slide Title

📝 MWB Reflection Task

Open the mini-whiteboard app in a new tab

Your teacher will start with these leading questions:

  • What is the role of the operating system?
  • What are applications
  • Why do we need utility programs
♿