Time needed: about 2 to 3 hours (1 hr theory, 1 hr practical, 30 min questions)
PART A: THEORY
1. What is software?
Software is a set of instructions (programs) that tells hardware what to do. Without software hardware is useless, like a body without a mind. You cannot touch software.
2. Types of software
Type
Purpose
Examples
System software
Runs and manages the computer
Windows, Linux, Android, drivers
Application software
Helps you do a user task
MS Word, Chrome, VLC, WhatsApp
Utility software
Maintains and protects the computer
Antivirus, disk cleaner, WinZip
Programming software
Used to write programs
Python, VS Code, compilers
3. Operating System (OS)
The Operating System is the main system software. It starts when you switch on the computer and works as a bridge between you, the applications and the hardware.
Functions of an OS
Process management: decides which program uses the CPU and when.
Memory management: gives RAM to programs and takes it back.
File management: creates, stores, finds and deletes files and folders.
Device management: controls keyboard, printer, etc. through drivers.
Security: passwords, user accounts, firewall.
User interface: lets you interact (icons, windows, touch).
Types of user interface
CLI (Command Line Interface): you type commands. Example: Command Prompt.
GUI (Graphical User Interface): you click icons and windows. Example: Windows, Android.
4. Popular operating systems
OS
Used on
Notes
Windows
PCs and laptops
Most popular on desktops, by Microsoft
macOS
Apple Mac
Smooth, costly hardware
Linux
Servers, developers
Free and open source
Android
Phones, tablets
Most used mobile OS, by Google
iOS
iPhone
By Apple
5. Drivers
A driver is a small program that lets the OS talk to a hardware device (printer, graphics card). If a new printer does not work, usually its driver is missing.
6. Free, paid and open source
Freeware: free to use (Chrome).
Shareware / trial: free for limited days.
Proprietary / paid: you buy a licence (MS Office).
Open source: source code open to everyone (Linux, LibreOffice).
Piracy: Using cracked software is illegal and often carries viruses. Use free or open-source alternatives instead.
7. Booting
Starting a computer is called booting. Power on, then BIOS checks hardware (POST), then the OS loads from disk, then the desktop appears. Cold boot = starting from off. Warm boot = restart.
PART B: PRACTICAL
Do every task on a real computer. Doing is the only way to learn.
Task 1: Check which OS and version you use: Settings, System, About. Write the OS name, RAM and processor.
Task 2: Open 5 applications (Calculator, Notepad, Paint, Browser, Media Player) and classify each as system/application/utility.
Task 3: Install a free app (such as VLC or LibreOffice) from its official site and uninstall it later via Settings, Apps.
Task 4: Open Command Prompt (type cmd in Start). Type date and dir and note what happens. Compare this with using File Explorer: which is CLI, which is GUI?
Task 5: Restart your computer using Start, Power, Restart and notice the boot steps.
PART C: QUESTIONS
Multiple choice (click an answer)
Q1. MS Word is what type of software?
Answer: Word is an application.
Q2. Which is an operating system?
Answer: Android is an OS.
Q3. GUI stands for?
Answer: Graphical User Interface.
Q4. A program that lets the OS talk to a printer is a?
Answer: Driver.
Q5. Which OS is open source?
Answer: Linux is open source.
Q6. Restarting a running computer is called?
Answer: Warm boot.
Short and long questions (write in your notebook)
What is software? Explain its types with examples.
List and explain five functions of an operating system.
Differentiate CLI and GUI.
What is a device driver?
Differentiate freeware, shareware and open source.
Explain the booting process.
Summary
System vs application software and what an OS does. Revise today's headings, redo any task you found hard, and then mark the day complete.