Inside the machine - Identify and label the parts of digital devices - Computing Unplugged

New and Updated for 2024

Resources Added:

• Labeling activites for many modern devices including, Laptops, Desktops, iPads, iPhone, Smart Watches, Consoles (PS1, PS5 and Nintendo Switch), Controllers, VR Headset and Magic Mouse.
• Keyword activities for learning, discussion and recall
• Presentation to introduce main common components and what they do
• Crossword and Word Search review resources
• Write your own clue opportunities for Crossword Puzzles

Students are invited to look at the parts of modern digital devices and identify and name the main components they find plus discuss the similarities and differences inside evolving technology design.

**Components identified include **

Battery/Power supplies, Input devices (keyboard/Mouse/Pen), RAM, Storage (HDD/SSD), Motherboard (CPU/ GPU), Casing, Heat Sinks, Fans, Sensors, Ports, and more

How to use these resources

Each type of activity plays a crucial role in reinforcing understanding and retention of the keywords.

Whole Class Learning
Introduce each component and its function using the presentation provided. Encourage students to ask questions and relate the components to devices they use.

Show-and-Tell:
Use real-life components like a RAM card, hard drive, or a dismantled old computer or tablet. This hands-on view will help cement their understanding of where these components might be found and their physical appearance.

Matching Games: Students match component names with their functions and pictures displayed on the board. This can be done using sticky notes or digital drag-and-drop tools if using interactive whiteboard software.

Paired Work
Flashcard Creation:
Children create flashcards for each component to encourage discussion and deeper understanding.
Role-Play and guessing games: Pairs of students can choose a component and prepare a short role-play that explains their component’s function.
For example, one student could be the CPU and another could be the RAM, demonstrating how they interact within the device.

Quiz Each Other/20 Questions: Students can quiz each other trying to guess/find out the correct component.

Solo Recall
Labeling Exercise: All students try to label the parts using the keywords they have learned.
Crossword Puzzle: Create crosswords and the clues based on the functions of each component to help remember the terminology and functions.
Short Answer Quiz: Conduct a short quiz where students write the function of each component. This can help teachers assess individual understanding and retention of the keywords.

Make their own presentation about the 5 most important components in a digital device - ie - HDD, CPU, GPU, RAM and Sound Card.