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Understanding Computers
Overall Expectations
By the end of this course, students will:
A1. |
describe the functions of different types of hardware components,
and assess the hardware needs of users; |
A2. |
describe the different types of software products, and assess the
software needs of users; |
A3. |
use the basic functions of an operating system correctly; |
A4. |
demonstrate an understanding of home computer networking concepts; |
A5. |
explain the importance of software updates and system maintenance to
manage the performance
and increase the security of a computer. |
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Specific Expectations
A1.
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Hardware Components
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By the end of this course, students will: |
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A1.1 |
use correct terminology to describe computer
hardware (e.g., USB, FSB, IEEE 1394 interface), speed
measurements (e.g., megahertz), and size measurements (e.g.,
megabytes, gigabytes); |
A1.2 |
describe the functions of the internal
components of a computer (e.g., CPU, RAM, ROM, cache, hard
drive, motherboard, power supply, video card, sound card); |
A1.3 |
describe the functions of common computer
peripheral devices (e.g., printer, monitor, scanner, keyboard,
mouse, speakers, USB flash drive); |
A1.4 |
assess user computing needs and select appropriate hardware
components for different situations (e.g., a student on a fixed
budget, a home business user, a gaming enthusiast, a
photographer, a home video enthusiast, a distance education
user, a human resources manager, an accountant). |
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A2.
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Software Products
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By the end of this course, students will: |
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A2.1 |
explain the difference between software used for
applications (e.g., word processor, spreadsheet, email client),
programming (e.g., an integrated development environment), and
systems (e.g., operating system tools such as a registry editor
and a defragmenting tool); |
A2.2 |
assess user computing needs and select appropriate software
for different situations (e.g., a student on a fixed budget, a
home business user, a gaming enthusiast, a photographer, a home
video enthusiast, a distance education user, a human resources
manager, an accountant). |
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A3.
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Operating Systems
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By the end of this course, students will: |
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A3.1 |
describe operating system functions that meet various user
needs (e.g., running applications, organizing files, managing
users, configuring peripherals); |
A3.2 |
use file management techniques to organize and manage files
(e.g., copy, move, delete, rename files; create shortcut); |
A3.3 |
use general keyboard shortcuts to perform common tasks
(e.g., cut, copy, paste, print, print window, print screen); |
A3.4 |
describe the features and limitations of various operating
systems. |
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A4.
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Home Computer Networking
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By the end of this course, students will: |
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A4.1 |
identify various networking applications and protocols
(e.g., VoIP, streaming media, FTP, email, instant messaging); |
A4.2 |
describe the features and functions of wired and wireless
networking hardware (e.g., NICs, routers, hubs, cables, modems); |
A4.3 |
demonstrate an understanding of various methods for sharing
network resources (e.g., shared file access, shared printer
access, Internet access). |
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A5.
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Maintenance and Security
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By the end of this course, students will: |
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A5.1 |
describe different types of malware (e.g., viruses, Trojan
horses, worms, spyware, adware, malevolent macros) and common
signs of an intrusion, and explain how to prevent malware
attacks; |
A5.2 |
explain the importance of maintaining software updates
(e.g., operating system updates, application software updates,
virus definitions) to increase computer security and maintain
hardware and software compatibility; |
A5.3 |
explain the importance of preventive maintenance (e.g.,
defragmenting a hard drive, deleting unused software and data
files) to manage computer performance. |
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Source: The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 10 to 12: Computer
Studies, 2008 (revised), page 34-5
PDF Format |