Fifth graders explore what is actually inside a computer, from the CPU that does the thinking to memory, storage, and the parts that take in and send out information, and learn what each one does.
Students will be able to…
A computer is a team of parts, each with one job. What is inside the box, and how do the parts work together to do what you ask?
Project this and open each card to explore the main parts inside a computer and what each one does.
Tap any phase to open the teacher moves and student actions.
A computer looks like one sealed box, but inside are many parts, each with a job. What do you think is in there?
Students explore the parts of a computer.
Students connect parts to jobs.
Students label a diagram.
Students reflect on how parts work together.
Aligned to the CSTA K-12 Computer Science Standards and the ISTE Standards for Students.
Describe how computing devices use parts to do tasks.
Model how parts of a system work together.
Identify and fix simple hardware problems.
Understand how computing systems work.
Preview the three formative checks. Tap “Sample answer” to see what mastery looks like — hide them before you print for students.
Have students draw a simple computer, label the main parts, and note the job each part does, so the inside of the machine is no longer a mystery. A printable computer-parts worksheet is in the Computer Science library.
Tap a card to flip it, then rate whether you knew it. Built from this lesson’s vocabulary.
A quick self-check with instant feedback, drawn from this lesson’s key terms.
A print-and-go review sheet with a built-in answer key. Tap “Show answer key” to reveal answers, or print the clean version for students.