lesson
What happens between input and output?
1 · Learn
An input sends data into a digital system. Processing means the system works on that data according to instructions. An output presents a result.
In a calculator, pressing 3 + 2 is input. The calculation is processing. Showing 5 is output. This model helps explain a system; it does not mean every device has exactly one input or output.
2 · Worked example
At a pretend ticket machine, choosing a ticket is input. The system uses the choice to find a price, then displays it as output.
3 · Your turn
In a drawing app, is moving the pointer an input or an output? What could be an output?
Check your answer
Moving the pointer is an input. The changed picture shown on the screen is an output.
4 · Apply your learning
Draw input, processing and output boxes for a safe familiar device. Add arrows and explain what information travels between them.
Adult guidance and safety
Use an adult-approved offline or school-managed application. Use invented data, original images and pretend identities. Paper models explain an idea but must be followed by suitable practical device work. Never enter real passwords or personal information in the working pad.
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Write, draw or show your working. Use a mouse, pen or finger. This pad is not a submitted answer.
Not saved to your account. Download your drawing as PNG and your typed notes as TXT before leaving or refreshing. They are separate files. Do not enter private information.
Open a picture saved on this device to draw on it again. Opening replaces the drawing, but Undo can restore it. PNG only, up to 4 MB and 4096 × 4096 pixels. The picture stays in this browser; it is not uploaded. Paper lines in a saved picture become part of that picture.
Clear the drawing? Your typed notes will stay. You can undo this action.
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Open a UTF-8 TXT file from this device, up to 40 KB and 10,000 characters. It stays in this browser. Opening can be undone until you type again. Downloads keep a new copy; they do not change the file you opened.
Replace the notes on this page with the opened file? Download the current notes first if you want to keep them.
Typed notes are not submitted answers.
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Interactive activity
Year 3 Computing learning routine
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