SAMPLE CHAPTER

INTERACT WITH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Provide an accessible approach to theory and practice

INTERACT
with this new edition updated to comprehensively cover
recent IT developments and the latest Caribbean curricula
for Forms 1 to 3 (Grades 7 to 9).
✱ Consolidate learning through a range of question types
such as Multiple Choice, True or False, Short Answer
and a fun Crossword puzzle.
✱ Build critical thinking and project work skills with
WITH

INFORMATION
research and STEM projects using real life situations.
✱ Develop understanding with new topics covered
such as computer ethics, algorithm development and
emerging careers.
✱ The answers can be found here:
www.hoddereducation.co.uk/interactanswers
TECHNOLOGY
Roland Birbal is an Assistant Professor in
Educational Technology and Instructional Design New Edition

1
at the University of Trinidad and Tobago.

1
He is also a former IT examiner and highly
experienced teacher.

Michele Taylor is an IT lecturer at the School

of Education, UWI, St Augustine, Trinidad and
Tobago and is currently pursuing her doctorate.
She is also a highly experienced IT and

NEW EDITION
Computer Literacy secondary school teacher,
pan-Caribbean curriculum writer and examiner.
Roland Birbal
Dynamic Learning Michele Taylor
This book is fully supported by Dynamic Learning – the online
subscription service that helps make teaching and learning easier.
Dynamic Learning provides unique tools and content for:
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BIRBAL • TAYLOR
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Sign up for a free trial – visit: www.hoddereducation.com/dynamiclearning

I S B N 978-1-5104-7396-6

9 781510 473966

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 Contents
1 The parts of a computer system 2
2 Types of computers 17
3 Being IT safe – taking care of IT things (1) 34
4 Computers and health 40
5 Introduction to Microsoft Word 50
6 Data communications, networks and
the internet (1) 73
7 Computer ethics and research (1) 92
8 Drawing with Microsoft Paint 102
9 Desktop publishing 116
10 Introduction to problem solving 127
11 Applications of IT (1) 141
12 Implications of IT 153
13 Computing careers (1) 161
Glossary 170
Index 172

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 1 The parts of a computer system

Objectives What is a computer?

At the end of the chapter, A computer is a programmable electronic device that processes
you will be able to: data by following a set of instructions. The action of processing
data produces information that can be output or stored for future
❏ explain the terms use. Electronic devices use tiny electric currents, flowing through
‘computer’, ‘computer circuits, to perform their operations. These currents are formed by
system’, ‘multimedia’, electrons, which is where we get the term ‘electron-ic’.
‘hardware’ and ‘software’
An example of a fairly simple computer is a calculator. It can process
❏ differentiate between a data and output the information from the processing. For example,
computer and a computer adding ‘2 + 6’ (the processing) produces ‘8’ (the information). Other
system computers are much more sophisticated, as you will see in Chapter 2.
❏ describe the difference A computer system refers to the complete computer, which
between data and includes all the hardware and software required for the computer to
information work. A computer system allows users to input, process, output and
❏ explain the difference store data. Figure 1.1 shows the parts of a computer system.
between hardware and
software System unit (with
Monitor
CD/DVD drive)
❏ explain the difference
between application
software and system Speaker Speaker
software
❏ explain the stages involved
Keyboard Mouse
in computer processing
❏ explain the functions of Figure 1.1 Parts of a computer system
the central processing
unit, control unit,
arithmetic and logic unit, What is the difference between
and registers
data and information?
❏ state some of the reasons
Data is all the raw facts and figures that a computer processes by
for using computers
following a set of instructions called a program. Data by itself has
❏ explain how technology no meaning; it can be in the form of letters (a, b, c, d … x, y, z, and
tools impact productivity so on), numbers (1, 2, 3, 15, 456, and so on), pictures, sounds or
in the home, school, symbols. It is only when we attach meaning to data that we
community and workplace. get information. For example, if you collect the temperature
of your classroom each day for a month, you have collected data.

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 Hardware and software

When you instruct a computer to arrange (sort) this data, you could
Note! get the following types of information:
Can you think of other types ✱ The highest temperature over the period
of data you can collect in your ✱ The lowest temperature over the period
class that the computer can ✱ The mean (average) temperature over the period.
process to give information? This information may then be useful, for example, to determine
whether a classroom is too hot or too cold for comfortable working.
If the information was just raw data, it would not be easy to interpret.
Therefore, the computer has helped you to look at a real-life situation
or problem and make some sense of it.

Did you know? Hardware and software

A computer needs both hardware and software to process data. The
The term ‘multimedia’
refers to content that uses hardware and software are interdependent and must work together
a combination of different to manipulate data effectively and produce useful output.
forms such as text, audio,
images, animations, video and Hardware
interactive content. Hardware is all the physical parts of the computer system that
you can see and touch. These physical parts include all the devices
that make up the computer system. The internal hardware devices
that make up a computer and ensure that it functions correctly are
components. The hardware devices that are not essential to a
computer’s function are called peripherals. Keyboards, printers,
speakers, mice and hard drives are peripheral devices.
Hardware devices can be divided into five categories: Input, output,
storage, processing and communication. Table 1.1 shows examples
of the different devices in each category.

Table 1.1 Categories of hardware devices

Hardware devices
Input devices Output devices Storage devices Processing Communication
Keyboard, VDU, monitor/ Hard disk drive, CPU Modem, webcam
scanner, touch screen, speaker, CD/DVD, USB
screen, joystick, plotter, printer flash drive
mouse

Did you know? Software

Software is a set of instructions (called a program) that a
Did you know that an app you computer needs to carry out its tasks. For example, if you want
download to your smartphone to use the computer to type a letter, draw a picture or do some
is software? Can you think of accounting work, you would need different types of software to carry
apps that you or a friend use
out these tasks. Examples of software include word processors,
or are familiar with?
spreadsheets, graphics packages and database packages.

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 1 The parts of a computer system

Software can be classified into two major categories:

✱ Application software
✱ System software.
Application software
Application software consists of programs that have been developed
to carry out specific tasks or solve particular problems. For example,
if you want to type a letter, you would need to use a word processor.
If you want to create a highly decorated birthday card, you would
need some type of graphics package. Word processors and graphics
packages are examples of application software.
Many different types of application software are available for sale.
Each type of software is designed for a particular type of activity.
Selecting the right application software to perform a task makes
it easier to accomplish the task, and will greatly improve the final
outcome or result. When you buy a new computer, it is usually sold
with system software and some application software. However,
depending on your needs, you may have to purchase additional
application software. Application software includes:
✱ entertainment software, such as games
✱ home or personal software, such as encyclopaedias
✱ productivity software, such as word processing and
spreadsheet packages
✱ specialist software such as desktop publishing and
graphics packages.
Application software can also be divided into the following categories:

User ✱ General-purpose software

✱ Integrated software
✱ Customised software
✱ Custom-written (tailor-made) software packages.
Application software
System software
System software consists of programs that manage and support the
resources and operations of a computer system. These programs
System software
Utilities  Operating system  enable the application software to run and the management of the
Language translators  system resources. Four major categories of system software are the:
Device drivers ✱ operating system
✱ utility programs
✱ device drivers
Hardware ✱ language translators.

Figure 1.2 Conceptual arrangement System software acts as a buffer between the hardware and the
of hardware, system software, application software. Figure 1.2 shows a conceptual arrangement
application software and the user of hardware, system software, application software and the user.

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 Stages of processing

Stages of processing
To accomplish its tasks, a computer has to process the data.
Processing data to get information involves the following
three stages:
✱ input
✱ processing
✱ output.
These three stages together are called the data-processing cycle.
Note!
Do you know the type and speed
Central Processing Unit
of the processor that is used in
your computer or your school’s Control Unit (CU)
computer?

Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU)

Input Output
devices devices

Main memory

Did you know?

Secondary or auxiliary storage
The mouse was invented in devices/backing store/disk storage
1963 by Douglas Engelbart. It
is called a ‘mouse’ because it
Figure 1.3 Stages of processing
has a basic mouse shape and
the cable that attaches it to
the computer looks like a tail. Input devices
When referring to more than Input devices such as keyboards, joysticks, mice and scanners
one device, both ‘mice’ and are used to get the data and instructions into the computer for
‘mouses’ are acceptable. processing.

Processing
The processing takes place in that part of the computer called
the central processing unit (CPU). The CPU, also known as
Did you know?
the processor, is the ‘brain’ of the computer. It takes raw data
Did you know that the and, following a set of instructions (programs), converts it into
unit ‘hertz’ (Hz) is named information. The speed at which a CPU processes data to convert it,
in honour of the German is measured in megahertz (millions of machine cycles per second) or,
physicist Heinrich Rudolf for newer machines, in gigahertz (GHz) (billions of machine cycles
Hertz (1857–1894). Hertz per second). A machine cycle is the sequence of instructions that the
laid the groundwork for the CPU performs to execute one program instruction. A computer that
development of the vacuum is used for gaming requires a very fast processor. One of the fastest
tube. He also discovered
processors for personal computers is the Intel Core i9-7980XE
electromagnetic waves.
with a speed of 4.4 GHz.

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 1 The parts of a computer system

The control unit

Step 1 The control unit (CU) is the main part of the CPU. It directs
Fetching the instruction and coordinates all the activities within the CPU. The control unit
from memory determines the sequence in which instructions are executed, but
it does not execute these instructions itself. Instead, it sends the
data and instructions to the arithmetic and logic unit (ALU) for
processing. The CPU is primarily responsible for movement of data
Step 2 and instructions from itself to the main memory and ALU and back.
Decoding the instruction The CU executes an instruction by performing the Steps 1 to 5 to
the left. These steps make up the data-processing cycle.
The control unit contains a number of registers. A register is a
Step 3
temporary storage location that holds a single instruction or data
Fetching the data required by the
item. Registers are used to store data and instructions that are
instruction from memory
needed immediately and frequently.
The arithmetic and logic unit (ALU)
The arithmetic and logic unit (ALU) performs all the arithmetic and
Step 4
logic functions in a computer. For example, if an instruction involves
Sending the data and instruction
an arithmetic operation such as addition, subtraction, multiplication
to the ALU for processing
or division, or the comparison of data, the control unit sends the data
to the ALU for processing.
Some of the logic functions are comparisons, such as the following:
Step 5
Sending the data to the memory
unit after processing Equal to = Greater than >
Less than < Greater than or equal to >=
Less than or <= Not equal to <>
equal to

For example, using the ‘equal to’ logic function, the ALU compares
two values to determine if they are equal. Other logical operations
performed by the ALU are AND, OR and NOT.
Main memory
The main memory (also called immediate access store or IMAS),
which is directly accessible to the CPU, holds data and instructions
that the computer is processing at the time. Therefore, the data
collected in the example about the temperature of the classroom
would be placed in main memory while it is being processed.

Output devices
Output devices translate information processed by the computer
into a form that the user can understand. After processing, the data
and information can be either stored in a secondary storage device,
such as the computer’s hard disk drive, or sent to an output device
such as a printer or a computer screen.

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 Why do we use computers?

DVD drive Monitor Speaker

Wireless Printer
modem

Keyboard Mouse

Figure 1.4 The components of a basic computer system

Why do we use computers?

We use computers for the following reasons:
✱ For their data-processing speed: Computers are very fast;
they can perform tens of millions of operations per second. With
this speed comes the power to undertake many different tasks
such as predicting weather forecasts, performing scientific
research and producing thousands of bills for utility companies.
✱ For their data-processing accuracy: Computers are very
accurate. Errors only occur if there is an error in the way in which
the hardware and software have been set up, or if there are errors
in the data that has been inputted into the system. Therefore,
errors usually occur because of some human error. Computers
can only do what they are set up and programmed to do.
✱ For storing large amounts of information in a small
space: Many types of computer storage media can be used to
store large volumes of data and information. For example, a single
CD-ROM disk or flash drive can hold the equivalent of a shelf of
library books in electronic form.
✱ For their ability to work continuously: Computers can
work continuously for very long periods – only needing to stop
Figure 1.5 Computers can work for upgrading or maintenance checks. In fact, most modern
continuously for long periods computers can be left switched on all the time if desired, to
with very little maintenance. continuously process data 24 hours a day and seven days a week.

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 1 The parts of a computer system

The impact of technology in homes,

schools, community and the workplace
In the modern world, technology fills almost every aspect of our daily
lives. Technology tools are in our homes, schools, communities and
workplaces. We cannot escape the impact of technology on society,
which can be both positive and negative.

Technology in the home

In today’s evolving world, families are consistently searching for
opportunities to help them obtain a better balance of professional
and family life. One of the ways that parents try to achieve this
balance is through the use of technology in their day-to-day lives.
Keeping in touch
Technology can help busy families stay connected with one another.
Parents can check in with children at all times to see where they are
and what they are doing. Families can check in with one another
using text or phone calls, or through the use of video-conferencing,
such as Skype, Facetime or WhatsApp.
Entertainment
Modern technology has had a huge impact in the way we enjoy
entertainment at home. In addition to cable and satellite television,
new gaming consoles, computer technology and high-speed
broadband have added to the ability to enjoy a wide range of
entertainment at home. These technologies have made it possible
for home owners to enjoy online gaming, as well as an enormous
selection of streamed movies and music, all in the comfort of their
homes. In addition, people who like to read can access ebooks,
online magazines and online newspapers.
Convenience
Technology that enables online banking, online shopping and the
ability to pay bills online has made many of these daily tasks much
simpler, safer and more convenient. You no longer have to go to a
bank to withdraw money or transfer it to someone. Companies like
PayPal have created a platform where people can send and receive
money from any location using the internet. Paying bills has also
been simplified thanks to technology. You do not have to carry
cash with you when you go shopping. You can use your cell phone
and a banking app to do all your necessary bill payments online. In
addition, general housekeeping such as vacuuming can be done
using automated robots. These devices can help busy householders,
Figure 1.6 Technology allows families as well as people who aren’t able to clean their own floors, to keep
to do their shopping online. their floors clean and dust-free.

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 The impact of technology in homes, schools, community and the workplace

Safety and security

WiFi-enabled smoke and carbon monoxide monitors connected first
to a WiFi network and then over to a centralised system can alert
someone if there is a problem. Home security cameras can allow
home owners to monitor their homes even when they are not at home.
Efficiency
Smart switches, plug adapters and timers allow home owners to
switch off the power without even being in the room. With the new
types of smart light bulbs, you can set individual timings for all the
lights in your home. This enables you to save electricity and makes
sure that you only use the lights you really need at home.

Technology in schools
Technology has also improved education and learning processes. Many
Did you know? schools have started integrating educational technologies into their
Technologies such as smart schools to improve the way in which students learn. Many activities
whiteboards, computers, cell in a school day take up too much of a teacher’s time and productivity.
phones, iPad®, projectors and Various tasks, such as preparing resources, grading and returning
the internet are being used papers, preparing supplemental instructional material, and notifying
in classrooms to motivate and posting assignments, can be done easily using technology.
students to learn, and to Technology can also assist the teacher in the following ways:
enhance teaching and learning.
✱ Tracking student progress: Integrated learner systems can be
used to capture, analyse and present data on students’ progress.
✱ Linking students to learning tools: The ability of technology
to link students with one another and with online resources has
the potential to support instruction and enhance learning.
✱ Empowering teachers to provide more focused,
personalised instruction: The ability to deliver high-quality
content via technology can allow teachers to spend more time
creating innovative experiences and coaching students one-on-
one in more targeted and focused ways.
✱ Giving teachers a window into what is working: Teachers
can use technology-based assessments to inform their instruction.
These assessments can quickly produce data and surface patterns
that help teachers to identify where students are faltering and to
intervene with targeted coaching immediately, before the student
falls too far behind. Teachers can also use this information to revise
their lessons plans and teaching approaches.
✱ Reaching more students in more places: Technology
solutions have the potential to reach many more students at a
relatively low cost, especially as smartphones, broadband and
cellular coverage are available everywhere and have become
Figure 1.7 Technology allows more affordable. Even in low-income communities across the
students to access online world, an increasing number of students, teachers and classrooms
resources that enhance learning. are equipped with computers, tablets, and smartphones.

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 1 The parts of a computer system

Technology in the community

Technology and human life cannot be separated, as we use
technology and depend on technology in most aspects of our daily
life. For example, people use technology to travel, to communicate,
to learn, to do business and to live in comfort.
Transport
Technology has improved transportation, as it provides mobility for
people and goods. In recent times, we have seen the growth of the
taxi transport apps. These apps allow users to book a taxi in many
countries in the world. The user puts in a destination and the app
maps a route, calculates a cost and gives the user several drivers
from which to choose.
Agriculture
Modern agricultural technology allows a small number of people to
grow vast quantities of food in a short period of time with less input,
which results in high yields and returns on investment. The use of
Figure 1.8 The use of technology technology in agriculture has also resulted in the development of
has created genetically modified genetically modified crops, which can grow quickly and are resistant
crops that are resistant to to many pests and diseases.
many pests and diseases, which
improves crop yield. Communication
People use technology to communicate with one another. Electronic
media such as radio, television, the internet and social media
have improved the way we exchange ideas, which can develop
our communities. In many countries, radio and television express
the concerns of society, and live forums are organised where the
community can contribute through cell phones or text service
systems like Twitter. During political elections, leaders use radio,
television and internet media to reach the people they want to serve.

Figure 1.9 Satellite technology allows television and radio broadcasts

to reach many people and communities.

10

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 The impact of technology in homes, schools, community and the workplace

Technology in the workplace

The introduction of new technology has enhanced productivity
and enabled greater collaboration, organisation and flexibility
in businesses.
Greater collaboration
Productivity and engagement in the office is a vital factor to an
organisation’s success. The right technology not only simplifies
how people work, but also increases cooperation between staff and
allows employers to have the best data on hand to make suitable
business decisions for business success. For example, software such
as ‘GoToMeeting’, which is an online video-conferencing software,
allows users to schedule meetings and share screens. Additionally,
collaboration tools such as ‘Google Docs™’ and ‘Google Sheets™’,
allow teams to work individually on a shared document, edit files
at the same time and save their changes automatically.
Better organisation
Implementing appropriate technology solutions allows everyone
to understand how the business works. For example, having all the
data in a centralised, easily accessible location enables staff to be
more organised and allows for better communication.
Greater flexibility
Workers are becoming more mobile and this development has
reached a point where most staff can work from a remote location
with little difference to physically being at the office. This allows a
continual flow of ideas and solutions across staff, strengthening the
team, the decision-making processes and the overall effectiveness of
the business.
Enhanced productivity
The use of computer-aided design (CAD) and manufacturing in
manufacturing companies has resulted in faster production of goods.
The internet has resulted in greater sales, faster distribution and
better after-sale customer service.

Figure 1.10 Technology in manufacturing allows goods

to be produced more quickly.

11

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 1 The parts of a computer system

Summary 1
1 A computer is a programmable electronic 14 The main memory holds data and instructions
device that processes data following a that the computer is processing at the time.
set of instructions.
15 Output devices translate information
2 A computer system refers to the complete processed by the computer into a form that
computer, which includes all the hardware and the user can understand.
software required for the computer to work.
16 Computers are used because of their great
3 Data is all the raw facts and figures that speed, accuracy, large storage capacity and
a computer processes by following a set ability to work continuously in solving a
of instructions (called a program) to variety of problems that would otherwise
produce information. require many human hours of work.
4 Hardware is all the parts of the computer 17 Technology tools are in our homes, schools,
system you can see and touch, for example community and in the workplace.
printer, keyboard, mouse, system unit.
18 In our homes, technology helps families to
5 Software is a set of instructions (program) that keep in touch, provide entertainment, provide
a computer needs to carry out its tasks. convenience for many daily tasks, improves
efficiency by managing utilities, such as
6 Application software programs carry out
electricity, and enhances safety and security
specific tasks or solve particular problems.
through the use of monitoring devices.
7 System software is software that manages and
19 Technology has resulted in enhanced
supports the resources and operations of a
productivity, greater collaboration,
computer system.
organisation and flexibility in businesses.
8 Input, processing and output are the three
20 Technology has improved education and
stages of processing.
learning processes by tracking student
9 Input devices are used to get data and progress, linking students to learning tools,
instructions into the computer for processing. empowering teachers to provide more
focused, personalised instruction, giving
10 The central processing unit (CPU) is the ‘brain’
teachers a window into what’s working,
of the computer. It consists of two smaller
reaching more students in more places.
units known as the control unit (CU) and the
arithmetic and logic unit (ALU). 21 Technology has improved the community
by providing better transport systems,
11 The control unit is the main part of the CPU.
communication systems and agricultural
It directs and coordinates all the activities
systems.
within the CPU.
12 A register is a temporary storage location that
holds a single instruction or data item.
13 The arithmetic and logic unit (ALU) performs
all the arithmetic and logic functions in
a computer.

12

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 The impact of technology in homes, schools, community and the workplace

Questions 1
Copy and fill in the blanks questions 7 Input, processing and output are the three
1 A set of instructions that a computer needs to stages of data processing.
carry out its tasks is known as a _______. 8 A register is a permanent storage location.
2 _______ is a set of raw facts and figures. 9 Technology has improved communities by
3 _______ are used to get the data and providing better communication systems.
instructions into the computer for processing.
Multiple-choice questions
4 A computer system consists of both _______ Choose the best answer to each question.
and _______.
1 Which is not an example of a peripheral
5 Processing takes place in the part of the device?
computer known as the _______.
a Keyboard
6 The _______ directs and coordinates all the
activities within the CPU. b Mouse

7 A _______ is the sequence of instructions c Register

performed to execute one program instruction. d Speakers
8 The _______ performs all the arithmetic and 2 A program is a:
logic functions in a computer.
a hardware device.
9 _______ holds data and instructions that the
computer is processing at the time. b memory device.

10 _______ translate information processed c set of instructions.

by the computer into a form that the user d register.
can understand.
3 Which is not found in the CPU?
True or false questions a ALU
1 Data and information are the same.
b Control unit
2 The CPU is the brain of the computer.
c Memory
3 All the data is processed in the memory unit.
d Printer
4 The control unit sends data from the memory
to the ALU for processing. 4 The ALU processes data and stores it in:

5 Output devices translate information a a flash drive.

processed by the computer into a form that b the main memory.
the user can understand.
c a sound card.
6 A computer that is required for gaming does
not need a fast processor. d modem.

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 1 The parts of a computer system

5 Which one of the following is not a function of Short-answer questions

the control unit? 1 Explain the difference between the terms
a Fetches instructions from memory ‘computer’ and ‘computer system’.

b Decodes instructions 2 Define the terms ‘hardware’ and ‘software’.

c Processes instructions 3 Using examples, explain the difference

between data and information.
d Fetches data for required instructions
4 Draw a diagram showing the three stages
6 The speed at which a CPU processes data to of processing.
convert it, is measured in:
5 Using an example explain the data-processing
a megabytes. cycle.
b gigahertz. 6 Draw a block diagram to illustrate the main
c gigabytes. components of a computer system.

d terabytes. 7 Describe the functions of the two main units

found in the central processing unit.
7 Registers are used to store data and
instructions that: 8 Explain the purpose of the following devices:

a are needed over a long period of time. a Input device

b are needed immediately and frequently. b Output device

c are needed at start up. c Main memory

d are needed to hold the program that is 9 a Explain the difference between application
being used. software and system software.

8 The main memory of a computer is also b Give two examples of application software
referred to as: and one example of system software.

a immediate access store. 10 State four reasons why computers are used.

b auxiliary storage. 11 Technology has permeated almost every

aspect of our daily lives.
c secondary storage.
a List three ways technology has made our
d backup storage. lives easier in our homes.
9 Which of the following is an example of b List three ways technology has enhanced
technology use in the home? productivity at the workplace.
a Keeping track of student progress 12 Technology has improved education and
b Greater collaboration learning processes.

c Entertainment a Explain two ways in which technology can

be used to assist the teacher.
d Enhanced productivity
b Describe an example of how you use
technology to assist with your studies.

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 The impact of technology in homes, schools, community and the workplace

Research questions 2 Use the internet to conduct research to

1 Using the internet to conduct research, determine the negative impacts of computers in:
answer the following questions. a the school.
a State the names of three manufacturers of b the home.
computer processors.
c the workplace.
b Create a table with the name of the
manufacturer and their latest processors. d the community.
3 Collect data in your school to determine for
what purposes students use their cell phone.
Analyse the data and present the information
to your teacher.

Crossword
1

Across Down
4 A set of instructions that a computer needs to 1 The part that holds data and instructions that
carry out its tasks the computer is processing at the time
5 Hardware devices that are not essential to a 2 All the raw facts and figures that a computer
computer’s function processes by following a program
6 The internal hardware devices that make up a 3 Sometimes referred to as the ‘brain’ of
computer and ensure its functionality the computer
7 All the parts of a computer system that you
can see and touch

15

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 1 The parts of a computer system

STEM project
Your mother has given your grandmother a
computer as a gift. Your grandmother lives in a Hints
country outside of the Caribbean. She is a retired 1 How is a computer similar to an electronic
typist and is familiar with an electronic typewriter, typewriter? Do research on this.
but she is not very familiar with computers. 2 What are the main features of a manual? Write
However, she is looking forward to learning about
them. Your mother has asked you to write simple
up a table of contents.
step-by step guidelines to help your grandmother 3 A large, well-labelled diagram can be very
understand the parts of a computer and their effective in showing the parts of a computer.
functions, to gently get her started in its use. You
decide to consult with your classmates to get help
in writing these guidelines.
1 Write a precise statement on what the manual
should do for your grandmother.
2 Decide on the content and format of the
manual. What process did you and your
classmates follow to decide on the content
and format? Write a brief outline of this
process.
3 Produce the manual and get an elderly non-
computer-using adult to use it.
4 Were there any problems in the test use of
the manual? How do you plan to improve the
manual as a result?

16

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 INTERACT WITH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Provide an accessible approach to theory and practice

INTERACT
with this new edition updated to comprehensively cover
recent IT developments and the latest Caribbean curricula
for Forms 1 to 3 (Grades 7 to 9).
 onsolidate learning through a range of question types
✱ C
such as Multiple Choice, True or False, Short Answer
and a fun Crossword puzzle.
✱ Build critical thinking and project work skills with
WITH

INFORMATION
research and STEM projects using real life situations.
✱ Develop understanding with new topics covered
such as computer ethics, algorithm development and
emerging careers.
✱ The answers can be found here:
www.hoddereducation.co.uk/interactanswers
TECHNOLOGY
Roland Birbal is an Assistant Professor in
Educational Technology and Instructional Design New Edition

1
at the University of Trinidad and Tobago.

1
He is also a former IT examiner and highly
experienced teacher.

Michele Taylor is an IT lecturer at the School

of Education, UWI, St Augustine, Trinidad and
Tobago and is currently pursuing her doctorate.
She is also a highly experienced IT and

NEW EDITION
Computer Literacy secondary school teacher,
pan-Caribbean curriculum writer and examiner.
Roland Birbal
Dynamic Learning Michele Taylor
This book is fully supported by Dynamic Learning – the online
subscription service that helps make teaching and learning easier.
Dynamic Learning provides unique tools and content for:
●● front-of-class teaching

BIRBAL • TAYLOR
●● streamlining planning and sharing lessons
●● focused and flexible assessment preparation
●● independent, flexible student study

Sign up for a free trial – visit: www.hoddereducation.com/dynamiclearning

I S B N 978-1-5104-7396-6

9 781510 473966

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