Technical specifications
UNIT 3 Inside the system
Benefits of laptops and tablet PCs
B. In pair, describe this diagram, using classifying expressions from the Help box.
A. Look at the Help box and then suitable classifying expressions to complete these sentences.
B. Decide if these sentences are true or false. Correct the false ones.
A. Listen to an extract from an ICT class. As you listen, label the pictures (a-e) with words from the box.
Different types of computer
B. Match these words from the text (1-9) with the correct meanings (a-i).
A. Read the text and then explain Fig.1 in your own words.
C. Read these advertising slogans and say which computer element each pair refers to.
B. In pairs, label the elements of this computer system.
D. Find words in the slogans with the following meanings.
1. to press the mouse button____
2. clear; easy to see____
3. to make an extra copy of something____
4. selection____
5. shows____
2 What is a computer?
| software | a | the brain of the computer | |
| peripherals | b | physical parts that make up a computer system | |
| main memory | c | programs which can be used on a particular computer system | |
| hard drive (also known as hard disk) | d | the information which is presented to the computer | |
| hardware | e | results produced by a computer | |
| input | f | input devices attached to the CPU | |
| ports | g | section that holds programs and data while they executed or processed | |
| output | h | magnetic device used to store information | |
| central processing unit (CPU) | i | sockets into which an external device may be connected |
| laptop desktop PC PDA mainframe tablet PC |
1. A mainframe computer is less powerful than a PC.
2. A mainframe is used by large organizations that need to process enormous amounts of data.
3. The most suitable computers for home use are desktop PCs.
4. A laptop is not portable.
5. Laptops are not as powerful as desktop PCs.
6. Using a stylus, you can write directly onto the screen of a tablet PC.
7. A Personal Digital Assistant is small enough to fit into the palm on your hand.
8. A PDA does not allow you to surf the Web.
4 Language work: classifying
1. A computer ____ hardware and software.
2. Peripherals ____three types: input, output and storage devices.
3. A word processing program____ software which lets the user create and edit text.
4. ____ of network architecture: peer-to-peer, where all computers have the same capabilities, and client server (e.g. the Internet) where servers store and distribute data, and clients access this data.
Your institute is considering buying tablet PCs to use in the classroom. Write an email to your teacher explaining the benefits for the students and the institute.