Can a computer think for itself?
We can use computers and other digital devices to do lots of different things. We can send messages, go shopping, watch a video or play a game.
Many of the machines and devices we use every day have a computer inside them. They are called digital devices.
Although a computer can do lots of clever things, it can't think for itself like we can. We have to give it a list of rules and instructions so that it knows what to do.
We call a list of instructions an algorithm.
The list of instructions we give to a computer is called a computer program. It is a special type of algorithm that a computer can understand.
The program tells your computer or digital device what to do.
Computers have a memory where they store all the programs that we give them.
What is code?
Computers can't understand everyday words like we can. We have to write the computer program using a computer language, or code.
Code can be written using:
- symbols
- words
- numbers
Sometimes writing a computer program is called coding.
It is important that the program has no mistakes and all the instructions are in the right order.
Here are some computer programs written using different types of code.
Who writes the programs?
The computers and digital devices we use every day have a set of programs to make them work.
These programs are made by people called computer programmers. Sometimes they are called coders.
We can learn to write our own computer programs. There are coding languages that are easy for beginners to use.
We can write a program to make a mouse move around the screen, or play a squeak sound when we click it.
What will you make happen with your computer program?
Watch: What is coding?
NARRATION: On a computer you can do all sorts of things: play games, do homework or talk to friends.
All these things are done using computer programs. But what are programs made from? Computer programs are made out of their own special language called code.
MOUSE: Please walk Mr Mouse.
NARRATION: A computer can't think for itself and you can talk to it like a person, it needs computer programs so it knows what to do.
MOUSE: Step 100 backwards.
NARRATION: Code is made out of words and numbers. Sometimes it is made from words you already know. You can learn how to put these words in order, so the computer understands what to do.
MOUSE: Step 10 forwards.
NARRATION: You can change the numbers and the words to choose what happens in your own program. There are lots more things you can do, it is your code so you can choose. It's up to you and your imagination.
Glossary
Here are the meanings of some important words:
Computer – A device that can follow instructions stored in its memory.
Digital device – A machine that has a computer inside.
Code – A language that a computer can understand.
Computer programmer – Someone whose job it is to write computer programs.
Program – A list of instructions a computer can understand.
Memory – The place in a computer where information is stored.
Activities
Dance Mat Typing game! game
Build and test your computing skills with different levels of touch type challenges.
More on Computing
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