Operating System & Windows

Operating Systems & Windows (due Wed. 9/15)

Directions: On the previous page, you read and watched videos to learn about operating systems and windows. Now,  take the quiz to check for understanding. You can take the quiz as many times as you want. (10 points)

*I put the reading and videos again here to help you take the quiz.

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• Total possible points: 10
• Category: Quizzes

Computer Basics: Understanding Operating Systems

An operating system is the most important software that runs on a computer. The operating system (OS) allows you to interact with your computer. It also allows you to communicate with the computer without knowing how to speak the computer's language. It manages the computer's memory, processes, software and hardware. You need an operating system to use a computer. 

The 2 most common operating systems are Microsoft Windows and Mac OS. You usually find Microsoft Windows on PCs (personal computers) and Mac OS on Apple computers. Mobile devices, like smart phones and tablets, also have operating systems for your touch screen. Operating systems usually come pre-loaded on any computer you buy. Most people use the operating system that comes with their computer, but it's possible to upgrade or even change operating systems. 

Video #1

Source: Computer Basics: Understanding Operating Systems (GCF Learn Free)

Windows Basics: Learning How to Navigate the Desktop

It's important to learn how to use your computer's operating system. In the video below, you will learn how to find things in the desktop in Windows.

The desktop is the screen you see after you turn on your computer. It is the main workspace for your computer. The desktop background is the wallpaper (the color or picture in the background). The taskbar is at the bottom of the screen where you can find shortcuts to applications and the Start button. When you click on the Start button, you can find a list of applications and shortcuts to settings, documents, and more. On the taskbar, you can also find File Explorer where you can find all your files and folders.

To open a program, double click on the icon. You can move windows by clicking and dragging. You can maximize a window so it fills the screen or minimize it so it goes down to the taskbar. You can close an application by clicking "X". You can use the search box to search for applications, folders, etc.

Video #2

Source: Windows Basics: Learning How to Navigate the Desktop (GCF Learn Free)