Inputs and outputs
Computer Science · Key Stage 1 · The School
In and out
An INPUT is how information gets INTO a computer: a keyboard, a mouse, a microphone, a touchscreen, a camera. An OUTPUT is how it comes OUT: a screen, a speaker, a printer. Press a key (input) and a letter appears on the screen (output).
Computers in disguise
Computers hide everywhere: inside washing machines (buttons in, spinning out), traffic lights (timers in, colours out), microwaves, cars, and card readers at the shop. If it takes information in and puts an answer out, there is probably a tiny computer inside.
Trace the journey
Say "play my song" to a smart speaker. Input: your voice through the microphone. The computer works out what you asked. Output: music through the speaker. Input → think → output is the shape of everything a computer does.