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Description

A short discussion and game on what are/are not computers and how to distinguish between them

Resources

You can use the actual item or a photo of the item (you could also put the photos into a presentation if you have access to a projector). You do not need all of the items but here are some suggestions.

Computers
Computer
Phone
Tablet
Games consoles
Smart speakers (Alexa)
Supermarket scanner (Scan as you shop)
Supermarket self check out tills
TV remote control
Traffic lights
Pedestrian crossing buttons
Interactive whiteboards

Non computers
Teddy (plain, no electronics)
Paperback book
Pens
Jigsaw puzzles
Football
Plate
Analogue clock
Mechanical timer

Instructions

Circle time (sit in a horseshoe):
Ask simple questions (hands up):

“What do you think a computer is?”
“Is a tablet a computer?”
“Is a washing machine a computer?” (Yes! Surprise factor)
"is wind up toy a computer?" (No - they work without computers inside)

Explain simply:

“Digital making means telling computers what to do — and creating things like games, pictures, or apps. A computer can follow instructions and do jobs by itself. If it can’t do that, it’s probably not a computer.”

Then play a short game:

Hold up or call out items:

Phone - yes
Traffic lights - yes
TV remote - yes
Book - no
Teddy - no

Beavers shout “Computer!” or “Not a computer!” or alternatively, label 1 end of your meeting place as "Computer" and the other end "Not a computer" and have the Beavers run carefully to each end as your call out the items.

Tags

(none)

Badge Links

• Digital Maker - Understand