A computer is like a brain
Patricia Ndlovu
Pexels; Pixabay
English
First paragraphs
A computer is like a human brain.
-
It takes in information, and it works with information.
-
It keeps information, and it gives back information.
1
When a computer works with information, we say it processes information.
-
When a computer keeps information, we say it stores information in its memory.
2
Even when you switch off a computer, its hard drive stores information in its memory.
-
A hard drive is usually found inside a computer.
3
A flash drive or flash stick stores information in the same way as a hard drive.
-
A flash stick plugs into a computer.
4
We use software programs to work with information.
-
Software programs process and store information on a computer.
-
There are different programs for different tasks.
5
The applications on a smartphone are also software.
-
The short name for application is ‘app’.
6
There are apps for playing games and other fun activities.
7
You can store many books on a computer.
-
You turn the pages of a book by pressing a button or swiping the screen.
8
A computer and an internet connection are very useful for studying.
-
You can use the internet to go online and watch teachers teaching lessons.
9
The internet can also be a dangerous place.
-
Ask someone you trust to help you with using the internet and visiting new websites.
10

——Questions


  1. What is processing?
  2. Where does a computer store information?
  3. Give an example of a storage device.
  4. How do software programmes help us?
  5. Why do we need the internet when working on a computer?
  6. Explain why a computer is like a brain.
  7. Find out about two apps that you can use to improve in your studies.
  8. What is a website made up of?

11

——


This is book one in a series of four books introducing topics in computer technology.
-
The storybook was created for the Zenex Ulwazi Lwethu reading materials project in 2021.
12
Attribution CC BY
Your attribution should include the following:
Title: A computer is like a brain
Author/s: Patricia Ndlovu
Translator/s: Patricia Ndlovu
Illustrator/s: Pexels; Pixabay
Assurer/s: African Storybook
Language: English

© Zenex Foundation - Saide 2025

CC BY includes the following elements:
 BY   – Credit must be given to the creator