Central processing unit (CPU) | The part of a computer that performs the majority of the processing and calculation tasks. |
Arithmetic logic unit (ALU) | The part of the CPU responsible for performing arithmetic and logical operations. |
Control unit (CU) | The part of the CPU responsible for coordinating and controlling the other components of the CPU. |
Registers | Small areas of memory within the CPU used to store and manipulate data quickly. |
Primary memory | The main memory used by a computer to store data and program instructions that are currently being used. |
Random access memory (RAM) | A type of primary memory that is volatile and can be read from and written to by the CPU. |
Read-only memory (ROM) | A type of primary memory that is non-volatile and contains instructions that cannot be altered. |
Cache memory | A small amount of high-speed memory used to store frequently accessed data for faster access by the CPU. |
Machine instruction cycle | The process of fetching, decoding, executing, and storing machine instructions within the CPU. |
Secondary memory | Long-term storage used to store data and programs that are not currently being used. |
Operating system | Software that manages the resources and activities of a computer, and provides a user interface for interacting with the computer. |
Application software | Software designed for specific tasks or purposes, such as word processing, spreadsheets, or graphic design. |
Binary representation | A method of representing data using only two digits, 0 and 1. |
Bit | A single unit of binary data, either 0 or 1. |
Byte | A group of 8 bits, used to represent a larger unit of data. |
Boolean operators | Logical operators used to combine or manipulate binary data, including AND, OR, NOT, NAND, NOR, and XOR. |
Truth tables | Tables used to represent the outputs of Boolean expressions for every possible combination of inputs. |
Logic gates | Electronic components used to implement Boolean expressions and perform logical operations. |
Denary/Decimal | A base-10 numbering system, used to represent decimal numbers. |
Hexadecimal | A base-16 numbering system, used to represent binary data more efficiently. |
Graphical user interface (GUI) | A user interface that allows users to interact with a computer using graphical elements, such as icons, windows, and menus. |
Logic diagrams | Diagrams that use logic gates and Boolean expressions to represent and solve problems. |
AND | A Boolean operator that returns true if and only if both of its inputs are true. |
OR | A Boolean operator that returns true if at least one of its inputs is true. |
NOT | A Boolean operator that negates the input, returning true if the input is false, and vice versa. |
NAND | A Boolean operator that returns false if and only if both of its inputs are true. |
NOR | A Boolean operator that returns true if both of its inputs are false. |
XOR | A Boolean operator that returns true if and only if exactly one of its inputs is true. |
Thinking logically | A problem-solving approach that involves breaking down problems into smaller parts and using reasoning to arrive at solutions. |
Connecting computational thinking and program design | The process of using computational thinking principles to design effective and efficient programs. |
Volatile | Memory that loses its contents when power is removed. |
Non-volatile | Memory that retains its contents even when power is removed. |
Data bus | The communication pathway between the CPU and other components that transfers data. |
Address bus | The communication pathway between the CPU and other components that carries memory addresses. |
String | A sequence of characters used to represent text in a computer program. |
Integer | A whole number used to represent numerical values in a computer program. |
Characters | Single letters, digits, symbols, or other marks used in a computer program. |
Unicode | A character encoding standard that allows computers to represent and manipulate text from different writing systems. |
Ergonomics | The study of designing equipment and devices that are comfortable and efficient for human use. |
Accessibility | The degree to which a system or device can be used by people with disabilities or special needs. |