Computers have come a long way from the first computer (named the ENIAC) that was developed in 1946. The ENIAC took up almost 1800 square feet and weighed more than 25 tons (that’s as much as some of the heaviest dinosaurs weighed!). Today’s computers can be found in almost everything around us—outside of the normal association of computers as laptops and desktops, you can find computers in phones, cars, planes, and even your television.
Today you will learn about what makes a computer a computer, and you will even have the opportunity to create your own!
Step 1: Here
is a fast paced video about the fast paced history of computers. Watch
this
brief video about the basic components of a computer.
Step 2: Computers come in many different forms and operate much of our modern world. How many forms can you think of? What are some of the ways we use computers?
Step 3: If you could design a computer, what would it look like? How big would it be? What type of computer would you choose? Using art supplies, design your own computer.
Step 4: Now it’s time to investigate what makes a computer run and function. Watch
this
video to get curious! Using
this
link to print out the handouts to build your own computer from the inside out. An additional
video
is here explaining the internal parts.
Step 5: Now you can incorporate your designs from Step 3 to your completed computer. Be sure to share on social media using #MakerMonday and #LearningInPlaceTN!
Additional Resources: