DGB 1: Hardware

← Digital Literacy – Year 1

Hardware refers to the physical components of a digital system. A computer does not work because of a single component, but because the processor, main memory, storage drive, motherboard, input and output devices, interfaces and software work together.

Curriculum reference

Area	Classification
Competence area	Action
Focus	Physical components of computer systems and how they work together
Competence	Name important hardware components, explain their basic functions and describe how they interact in a computer system.

Learning objectives

Students can:

explain the term hardware;
distinguish internal and external hardware components;
classify input, processing, storage and output components;
describe the basic functions of processor, main memory and storage drive;
correctly classify common external devices such as monitor, keyboard, mouse or printer;
explain that individual hardware components form a functioning system only when they work together;
describe how data is passed between internal and external parts of a device;
classify important interfaces such as USB, HDMI, audio and network connections;
recognise that connections, power supply and interfaces are essential to the functioning of the system;
identify hardware from everyday life and school as part of a complete digital system.

Learning content

Hardware and software

Hardware consists of the physical parts of a computer or digital device. Software consists of programs and data that are executed or processed by the hardware.

A word-processing program is software; the keyboard, screen and processor are hardware. Practical use becomes possible only through their interaction.

Processor – CPU

The processor or CPU executes program instructions and processes data. It performs calculation and control tasks. Processor speed alone does not determine how fast an entire computer system performs every task, because storage, main memory, software and other components also play a role.

Main memory – RAM

Main memory (RAM) holds data and programs that are currently being used. It is fast but usually volatile: when the device is switched off, working data in RAM is lost unless it has previously been saved to permanent storage.

More RAM can help when several or larger applications are used at the same time, but it does not replace permanent storage.

SSD and other storage

An SSD or another storage drive keeps files and programs permanently. The operating system, documents, photographs and applications are stored here.

Storage capacity describes how much data can be stored. Speed influences, among other things, how quickly files and programs can be loaded.

Motherboard and connections

The motherboard connects many internal components and provides slots and connectors. The processor, RAM and other components communicate through these technical connections.

Desktop computers use a power supply unit to provide electrical power. Mobile devices use a battery and charging electronics.

Input and output

Typical input devices include keyboard, mouse, touchpad, microphone, camera and scanner. Output devices include monitor, speakers and printer. A touchscreen can serve as both input and output. This classification links directly to the IPO model.

Interfaces

Interfaces connect devices. USB is used for input devices, storage and many accessories. HDMI typically carries picture and sound to a display. Audio connectors or Bluetooth can connect audio and peripheral devices. Ethernet and Wi-Fi provide network connections.

A plug should only be inserted into a suitable interface. Shape and labelling help with correct identification.

How components work together

When a photograph is opened, the system reads the image file from the storage drive. Required data is placed in RAM, the processor executes the program instructions and the graphics output produces the image for the monitor.

No single component performs the whole task. Understanding this interaction is the central goal.

Safe handling of hardware

Electronic devices should only be opened or modified in class under suitable safety conditions. Devices are switched off and disconnected from the power supply before work begins. Power supplies and other potentially dangerous components must not be opened without appropriate expertise and supervision.

For identification activities, switched-off old equipment, photographs, models or prepared components are suitable.

Classroom activities

Classify components

Task: Classify CPU, RAM, SSD, keyboard, monitor, mouse and printer as processing, temporary storage, permanent storage, input or output.

Expected outcome: Correct functional classification with short explanations.

Draw a computer as a system

Task: Draw a diagram containing input, CPU, RAM, SSD and output. Connect the components with arrows and label what happens between them.

Expected outcome: A clear system model rather than a simple list of parts.

Identify connections

Photographs of USB, HDMI, audio and network connectors are used.

Task: Match each connection to typical devices or tasks and give at least one example for each.

Expected outcome: Basic confidence in selecting interfaces.

Investigate hardware faults

Simple scenarios are analysed, such as an unconnected monitor, a missing keyboard or full storage.

Task: Identify the component most likely involved and suggest one safe check.

Expected outcome: Connection between a component's function and a fault symptom.

Present a hardware system

Task: In a group, create a model or poster of a computer system. Label internal and external components and explain how at least five parts work together.

Expected outcome: A complete system representation using correct technical vocabulary.

Self-check

I can distinguish hardware and software.
I know the basic functions of CPU, RAM and SSD.
I can classify input and output devices.
I know important interfaces.
I can explain why components need to work together.
I follow basic safety rules when handling hardware.