Computing · Stage 4

CPU, Memory & Storage

Coding & Systems · systems — the three key parts inside: the CPU thinks, memory holds what you use now, storage keeps your files

✦ Computing📘 Stage 4 · S4⏱ ~10 min🧒 Ages 8–9★ Free to start

name the CPU, memory and storage and their jobs — the CPU does the thinking, memory holds what you are working on now, storage keeps your files when the power is off

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Kavi Looks Inside the Computer

Kavi peeked inside a computer and found three busy parts. "This one is the CPU — the brain. It does all the thinking and works out every step," Kavi hooted. "This one is the memory. It's like a desk — it holds whatever I'm working on right now, but it clears off when the power goes." Then Kavi pointed at the last part. "This is the storage — like a cupboard. It keeps my saved files and photos, even after the computer is switched off." Three parts, three jobs: think, hold now, and keep for later.

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What your child will learn

1Three parts, three jobsInside a computer, three parts work as a team. The CPU thinks, the memory holds what you are using right now, and the storage keeps your files for later. Tap each part to hear its job.

2A desk, or a cupboard?This is the tricky pair. Memory is like a desk — it holds what you are using this very moment, and it clears off when you leave. Storage is like a cupboard — it keeps things safe for next week or next year, even with the power off. Tap each card to compare.

3Does memory hold it, or storage keep it?If you are using something this very moment, memory is holding it. If it is saved to use another day, storage is keeping it. Tap the right box for each one.

4Kavi gives the computer a hard sumKavi asks the computer to work out a big multiplication. Predict which part does the thinking, then reveal.

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A peek inside

Kavi asks the computer to work out 48 × 6. Which part does the thinking and gives the answer?

thinking and running the steps is the brain's job

Try this at home: The part that does the thinking and works out the steps is the ____.

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Start the free interactive lesson, or print the handout for screen-free play.

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Part of Computing · Stage 4 · S4 on KAVI Academy — a secular, whole-child learning platform for ages 5–12.