computer

Everyday

1. A computer is a machine that stores information and follows instructions to help us write, count, draw, play, send messages and look things up. tree →
2. Laptops, tablets and even phones are kinds of computers. tree →

In the lessons

In maths: a thing counted in a classroom, bought at a price, or a machine used for some time; «pupils per computer» is a sharing (division). In school: the computer room, computing lessons, typing and coding. In science: computers work very fast but only do what their program tells them. Safety: keep passwords secret and tell an adult if something online upsets you. Phrases: on the computer, computer game, computer program, turn on the computer.

Examples

• The class has 12 computers for 24 pupils. tree →
• A computer costs 400 dollars. tree →
• She used the computer for 45 minutes. tree →
• How many children share each computer? tree →
• We write stories on the computer at school. tree →
• Turn off the computer when you are finished. tree →
• The computer saves your work every few minutes. tree →
• He played a computer game after his homework. tree →
• A computer follows the steps of a program. tree →

Note

Countable: a computer, two computers. Say «on the computer» (working on it), «at the computer» (sitting there). A counted item or a price; «pupils per computer» is a sharing (division). No clue by itself. A computer is not always right: it can only use what it is given.